Expert: Karl Zick - 9/19/2011

Question
Hello,

how much should a desktop PC that will be used primarily for MS word, internet browsing, and watching clips on the web (with maybe, maybe just a little bit of not too serious gaming) run me? And what are some good choices for this kind of system?

Answer
Hi Harold,

I have grown to trust Lenovo (IBM) computers as much as any brand on the market.  Sony may be a little better but they will cost you.  Dell is OK but their selection is very confusing and their tech support is a pain.  Stay far away from HP, Compaq, and eMachines.

Here is a good deal on a Lenovo at Amazon for just over $300 that would serve you well:  http://www.amazon.com/Lenovo-Ideacentre-0893-1AU-Desktop-Black/dp/B003N19DA6/ref

You will alco need a monitor and Amazon has a good selection of them.  Here is a beautiful 24 inch Viewsonic that I highly recommend: http://www.amazon.com/ViewSonic-VT2430-24-Inch-1080p-HDTV/dp/B001KLEUOA/ref=sr_1.  Also. here is a great Samsung which is a little smaller and a little cheaper:  http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-S22A300B-21-5-LED-Monitor/dp/B004QNHNO8/ref=sr_1_2

If you are curious about Dell, here is a comparable system that I put together, with monitor, for $600: http://www.dell.com/us/p/inspiron-560/fs?3x_nav=PROC_BRAND%3DPENT_2&MEMRY_SIZE_G