Buying a computer system/computers

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Expert: - 1/31/2009


Question
Hello, I currently have a HP Pavilion desktop that I bought in 1999. It has served me well with no problems but I think it's about to go bad. I would like to replace it with another HP. Staples has a HP Pavilion a6712 on sale for around $650. Walmart has a HP Pavilion a6603w-b for about the same price.

In your opinion, which would be the best buy between the 2 computers? I would basically use this computer for email, web surfing, downloading and playing video and music files and transferring digital photos. I also connect to the internet by a dial-up connection.

Thanks, Jim

Answer
Honestly your list of tasks benefits more from the internet connection existing than from the hardware invovled in the system, I would go with whichever machine offers you any "extras", such as free software, or free hardware upgrades. Ensure that a 56k modem is included, or perhaps consider an upgrade to broadband internet.

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

Expertise

I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

Experience

I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

Education/Credentials
15+ years of experience

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