…… Computers: what to buy

[hunybee]

Let me ask you something hunybee? What, exactly, is your goal here with this thread? To get some general recommendations to aid you in shopping, or to become well trained in computer architecture?

Dennis, I just don't know much. I'm not trying to get trained, just to be able to pick the best thing for us.

Things lead to more questions lots of times. It's very confusing if one doesn't do this or is well versed. Things that would seem fairly simple or rudimentary to a person that has more knowledge can be confusing for someone that just doesn't deal in it very much.

When I am going and looking at the options, and try to follow the advice, other things present themselves. That's why I ask. I am honestly not trying to be a problem. I appreciate as much info as possible.

 

[Meemur]

runtime about 7 minutes

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPQJKz42m80

 

[Meemur]

Here's a search tip -- use Google for this

Formulate a question: amd ryzens or intel (for example). If you want a youtube, add that:

AMD Ryzen vs. Intel youtube

And then you can skim through and find something to read or watch at your technical level.

I do this all the time!

Another example - Runtime 8 minutes

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlQdR1JjJfI

 

[Dennis Olson]

My goal is to keep things as easy to understand for you as I can. (If taught many technical adult education classes over the years.) If you try to stuff your head full of minutiae, you’re going to vaporlock. There is simply too much background information for a neophyte to be be able to make use of. You’d be better served to hire someone knowledgeable to buy your equipment for you. Like a “concierge service” if you will. And I’m not saying this to denigrate your ability. It’s just that as I said at first, learning enough to be fully versed in this stuff takes years of dedicated effort.

 

[tencup]

If I was buying a new desktop I would order the new iMac.....it’s coming out later this month.....trim it out the way you want

 

[Dennis Olson]

I’m sure they don’t have a $4,000 budget for a single desktop machine

 

[tencup]

Get the bad model

 

[Hacker]

My goal is to keep things as easy to understand for you as I can. (If taught many technical adult education classes over the years.) If you try to stuff your head full of minutiae, you’re going to vaporlock. There is simply too much background information for a neophyte to be be able to make use of. You’d be better served to hire someone knowledgeable to buy your equipment for you. Like a “concierge service” if you will. And I’m not saying this to denigrate your ability. It’s just that as I said at first, learning enough to be fully versed in this stuff takes years of dedicated effort.

Which is why, when a friend asks '... is this a good computer to get? ...', I give them a 'yes' or 'no' answer (after learning its intended use)

However, here's an online thread with lots of suggestions. Letting the buyer know about 'gotchas'-type stuff seems rather important.

 

[tencup]

Should be base model...auto correct.....about 8 years ago I bought the $239 Gateway model from Walmart.....it did just fine

 

[Dennis Olson]

However, here's an online thread with lots of suggestions. Letting the buyer know about 'gotchas'-type stuff seems rather important.

And generally speaking, you’re right. However, when a prospective (neophyte) buyer starts digging into one CPU brand over another, you’re going beyond the boundaries of what’s reasonable for a person of her knowledge base. After that, will she want to discuss DDR3, DDR4 and DDR5 RAM? Perhaps the various clock speeds each is capable of running, and the necessary voltages? What about graphics cards? GeForce vs. Radeon? Which models within the respective lines? Should she make sure the motherboard has an extra PCIe slot for a GPU daughterboard? What kind of cooling for the CPU, air or liquid? What about overclocking?

I mean, the list is endless. That’s why I suggested above that she see if she can get a knowledgeable party to make the buy(s) for her. Ever see the TV show Monk? The way Monk gets bogged down in minutiae? That’s what I’m seeing on this thread now. And no, that’s not a good thing. The issues surrounding the “correct” PC builds can fill a thousand page book. It’s well beyond the scope of this forum to go into that kind of detail.

Hunybee, there are books and other information sources out there if you feel the need to “go Monk” on it (lol). But I promise you - every layer you peel away leads to another deeper layer. And another. And another. I reiterate - to understand all this takes a lot of training and research. You’re not going to find people willing to educate you to the level I’m feeling you wish, without billing you for said training.

 

[Dennis Olson]

Addendum: At one point I was VERY conversant in current PC technology. Further, I was able to build one from parts and a case. That was in the 90’s. Today, I’d have to dedicate months of personal study to re-learn the state-of-the-art. This is something I’m MORE than unwilling to do. If I were going to buy a high-end tower these days, I’d ask certain board members to spec me out a good one within my budget. I simply no longer have the desire to put myself through that.

And I’ve been in the IT field for 40 years. I’ve surrounded myself with computers every day of my life since 1974.

 

[SmithJ]

And generally speaking, you’re right. However, when a prospective (neophyte) buyer starts digging into one CPU brand over another, you’re going beyond the boundaries of what’s reasonable for a person of her knowledge base. After that, will she want to discuss DDR3, DDR4 and DDR5 RAM? Perhaps the various clock speeds each is capable of running, and the necessary voltages? What about graphics cards? GeForce vs. Radeon? Which models within the respective lines? Should she make sure the motherboard has an extra PCIe slot for a GPU daughterboard? What kind of cooling for the CPU, air or liquid? What about overclocking?

I mean, the list is endless. That’s why I suggested above that she see if she can get a knowledgeable party to make the buy(s) for her. Ever see the TV show Monk? The way Monk gets bogged down in minutiae? That’s what I’m seeing on this thread now. And no, that’s not a good thing. The issues surrounding the “correct” PC builds can fill a thousand page book. It’s well beyond the scope of this forum to go into that kind of detail.

Hunybee, there are books and other information sources out there if you feel the need to “go Monk” on it (lol). But I promise you - every layer you peel away leads to another deeper layer. And another. And another. I reiterate - to understand all this takes a lot of training and research. You’re not going to find people willing to educate you to the level I’m feeling you wish, without billing you for said training.

Its AMAZING that no-one has chimed in yet to advise her to load an obscure version of Linux instead of buying a new computer................

 

[Meemur]

Its AMAZING that no-one has chimed in yet to advise her to load an obscure version of Linux instead of buying a new computer................

The learning curve for Linux is fairly steep for Huny and her DH. They need point and click.

If I lived nearby, I'd go over and see if their computer could be easily fixed and if not, go shopping with them, but I'm
about seven hours away.

 

[SmithJ]

The learning curve for Linux is fairly steep for Huny and her DH. They need point and click.

I know. Thats why I'm constantly amazed at these threads. Usually that's one of the first things mentioned and I just smh.

 

[Meemur]

I know. Thats why I'm constantly amazed at these threads. Usually that's one of the first things mentioned and I just smh.

It's not a bad suggestion in some cases. One time I was on the skids financially and absolutely had to have a working computer. Mine had overheated and died, plus Windows would no longer load. I managed to change out the fan and loaded an early version of SUSE that worked with a really early version of Open Word Star (It was Word -- something). I had nothing to lose and got lucky. Things were still somewhat simple in those days, and I knew a little bit about programming, not much! Today . . . different story.

 

[rob0126]

I know. Thats why I'm constantly amazed at these threads. Usually that's one of the first things mentioned and I just smh.

I dont suggest Linux for a noob, but, If they want a more secure internet experience, then go with one that is more windows like (mint, mx, etc)

I still consider myself a Linux noob and I've been running linux for some years now. It's just simply overwhelming what you can do with it.

 

[Meemur]

It's just simply overwhelming what you can do with it.

I know. That's why it's on my list to eventually master! I just need more time than I have right now for that.

 

[Hacker]

I know. That's why it's on my list to eventually master! I just need more time than I have right now for that.

I suggest you install it and play with it. It's quite easy to use.

 

[Meemur]

I suggest you install it and play with it. It's quite easy to use.

LOL!

 

[SmithJ]

I dont suggest Linux for a noob, but, If they want a more secure internet experience, then go with one that is more windows like (mint, mx, etc)

I still consider myself a Linux noob and I've been running linux for some years now. It's just simply overwhelming what you can do with it.

I've used it. Don't any more. There was just no need for it (for me) It wasn't fun, it wasn't compatible with anything else I did.

There's a place for it, I'm sure. But I just laugh when I see it suggested for someone who is asking computer questions on a web forum. (in my opinion) If you are seeking computer advice, then linux is not for you.

I use windows for work and a mac for fun. That's enough for me.

 

[TKO]

I'm a big fan of Lenovo laptops.
For a desktop look at these guys.

Homepage

Puget Systems offers custom workstation computers for content creation, design, engineering, scientific computing and more. We build for your workflow.

www.pugetsystems.com

Everything perfectly optimized and tested. But just took a quick peak and it seems like there getting a bit pricey.

HUGE HUGE fan of Lenovo Thinkpads. Best on the market in my opinion. I just bought my wife a new Thinkpad for Christmas. She loves the keyboard. No one beats the Thinkpad keyboard. Not the regular chiclet style keys. For my own, I bought a Lenovo T430s, refurbished, and it has been an outstanding laptop. I changed out the keyboard to a lighted one but that was fairly easy and cost me 22 dollars.

 

[Hacker]

LOL!

I would not have suggested it if I didn't think you could handle it. Really.

 

[Hacker]

I've used it. Don't any more. There was just no need for it (for me) It wasn't fun, it wasn't compatible with anything else I did.

There's a place for it, I'm sure. But I just laugh when I see it suggested for someone who is asking computer questions on a web forum. (in my opinion) If you are seeking computer advice, then linux is not for you.

I use windows for work and a mac for fun. That's enough for me.

I suggested it for Meemer, not Hunybee.

 

[SmithJ]

I suggested it for Meemer, not Hunybee.

I know, I wasn't referring to that. I had made a light hearted joke earlier about linux for kinda nubies. Thats what I was referring to.

Anyway, I've driven off topic enough......

 

[Meemur]

I think we're OK. Linux will come up in the discussion at some point when discussing computer costs, long term.

 

[KFhunter]

Go to Costco, get that dell destop thats on sale, and be done w it.

 

[packyderms_wife]

I have to stay with dell.

The computer that just died is a Lenovo.

It has given me the dreaded error 1962.

I have tried all the fixes I could find online. It won't work. There is one fix i found this morning, but it makes me really nervous as it is opening it up and moving some things.

I am really thinking I need an external hard drive for pictures. I have pictures in a few different computers that have died in the past and there are a ton of pictures on them. I try not to think about it because they are the kids pictures and it makes me want to cry and be sick lol

Why Dell? I've had nothing but bad luck with Dells.

 

[packyderms_wife]

I am really thinking I need an external hard drive for pictures. I have pictures in a few different computers that have died in the past and there are a ton of pictures on them. I try not to think about it because they are the kids pictures and it makes me want to cry and be sick lol

So take those drives to a local fixit geek and have them moved to a new external HD, it can be done.

 

[Tex88]

Addendum: At one point I was VERY conversant in current PC technology. Further, I was able to build one from parts and a case. That was in the 90’s. Today, I’d have to dedicate months of personal study to re-learn the state-of-the-art. This is something I’m MORE than unwilling to do. If I were going to buy a high-end tower these days, I’d ask certain board members to spec me out a good one within my budget. I simply no longer have the desire to put myself through that.

Pick parts. Build your PC. Compare and share. - PCPartPicker

pcpartpicker.com

 

[Tex88]

HUGE HUGE fan of Lenovo Thinkpads. Best on the market in my opinion. I just bought my wife a new Thinkpad for Christmas. She loves the keyboard. No one beats the Thinkpad keyboard. Not the regular chiclet style keys. For my own, I bought a Lenovo T430s, refurbished, and it has been an outstanding laptop. I changed out the keyboard to a lighted one but that was fairly easy and cost me 22 dollars.

Dang, at least get a T480 or 490.

 

[Kris Gandillon]

Oh yes also, we have a monitor from dell they is about 4 years old. Would we be able to use this with a new tower?

Probably. But you may have to change the connection type. Monitors and computers often come with 2 or more of the various ways to connect. Depending on which video connection type you were using between your monitor and the computer, if the new computer offers the same type of connection you should be good to go. If the offered video connections are different than your old computer then you would need to verify that connection type exists on your old monitor and acquire a video connection cable of that type. The various connection types over the years have been: VGA, DVI, HDMI, Thunderbolt, DisplayPort, USB-C.

And there are different versions (1, 2, 3, 1.3, 1.4, etc) of most of the above technologies.

So yea, PROBABLY but you may run into a mismatch that you will have to resolve.

To assure you can use it, figure out which connection type your monitor was using to connect to your old computer and make sure the new computer you choose offers that same video connection type.

Plan B would be to look at the video connection ports on your monitor (usually 2 or 3 are offered) and make sure your new computer supports one or more of those connection types and simply purchase the correct video cable for the connection type you choose to use. In some cases, there are different “plug” types at each end of the video cable that you MIGHT have to make sure are correct.

If you do get a new Dell computer there is a good/better chance your old monitor and video cable will work with the new computer without any of the above issues.

 

[Ravekid]

I’m also in the market for a laptop, so this thread has provided me with some great info. My main issue is with storage for mostly photos and a lesser extent document type files (mostly travel related). I purchased a refurbished desktop for $150 a couple of years ago via Best Buy. Works fine though seem noisy. I only got it because of the large 1T hard drive.

What I’ve found out is that having a desktop or laptop with large hard drives made me lazy when it comes to backing up files. I have two large external drives but I’ve failed to back-up recent files in a timely manner like I should. I have a plan in place going forward.

Going forward I’ll likely always buy laptops. They are smaller, easier to take on a trip, can store then in a gun safe if gone for a while, etc.. A wireless mouse and keyboard makes it feel like a traditional desktop computer also.

 

[rob0126]

And while we are talking about computers, I recommend blue light reducing glasses if you stare at a monitor/led/phone screen for hours at a time.

Ive noticed that they do help me. But I have to take them off periodically and give my eyes a rest from the computer screen anyways.(a good idea either way)

The ones mike adams sells are decent and run about 25.00. The yellow tint ones for me because they diffuse the super bright headlights on newer vehicles. Good for night driving.

 

[hunybee]

And while we are talking about computers, I recommend blue light reducing glasses if you stare at a monitor/led/phone screen for hours at a time.

Ive noticed that they do help me. But I have to take them off periodically and give my eyes a rest from the computer screen anyways.(a good idea either way)

The ones mike adams sells are decent and run about 25.00. The yellow tint ones for me because they diffuse the super bright headlights on newer vehicles. Good for night driving.

I have a program on my computer called f.lux. It changes the lighting on the computer to coincide with the time of day, and help keep circadian rhythms in sync. It's pretty good

 

[Tex88]

I’m also in the market for a laptop, so this thread has provided me with some great info. My main issue is with storage for mostly photos and a lesser extent document type files (mostly travel related). I purchased a refurbished desktop for $150 a couple of years ago via Best Buy. Works fine though seem noisy. I only got it because of the large 1T hard drive.

What I’ve found out is that having a desktop or laptop with large hard drives made me lazy when it comes to backing up files. I have two large external drives but I’ve failed to back-up recent files in a timely manner like I should. I have a plan in place going forward.

Going forward I’ll likely always buy laptops. They are smaller, easier to take on a trip, can store then in a gun safe if gone for a while, etc.. A wireless mouse and keyboard makes it feel like a traditional desktop computer also.

Anf if you add a docking station you’ve gone fully convertible. All the convenience of having a large monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers, but unplug one or two cables (depending on whether or not your laptop charges via USB C) and you have all the portability of a laptop.

 

[jward]

last time I needed to choose, there were buying guides all over- everywhere from Walmart to consumer reports, that explained what those different elements were- and helped me, even as a laywoman, know what video card was minimal, etc for my needs, for example... and all done with the reader as an amateur in mind.

Best Desktop Computer Buying Guide - Consumer Reports

Shopping for a computer? Read about types, features, and other must-know topics in our computer buying guide to make an informed choice.

www.consumerreports.org

 

[packyderms_wife]

Get the bad modelView attachment 266407

Wow that's a small iMac, didn't realize they still made them that small.

 

[Dennis Olson]

@jward You understand that you have to be a paying member of Consumer Reports to read their articles, right?

 

[packyderms_wife]

Addendum: At one point I was VERY conversant in current PC technology. Further, I was able to build one from parts and a case. That was in the 90’s. Today, I’d have to dedicate months of personal study to re-learn the state-of-the-art. This is something I’m MORE than unwilling to do. If I were going to buy a high-end tower these days, I’d ask certain board members to spec me out a good one within my budget. I simply no longer have the desire to put myself through that.

This^^^ You're previous post, the one mentioning over clocking, literally made my skin crawl. I remember those days and all too well, sigh. I also remember building a shopping cart for over 3,000 items using HTML, CSS, etc., oh what a headache that was and then MIVA finally came out with a plug and play online shopping cart system.

I'll be upgrading to the newest latest greatest iMac here in a couple of months, got my new external HD's yesterday, ArmorATD by G-Technology, 5Ts each. Backing up my current iMac and then off it goes, it's pink screening again and it's not fixable this time. I had forgotten how hard video editing was on a machine, well mine is letting me know all about, lol.

 

[Satanta]

My only suggestion is don't Over buy.

You mention Streaming is that Watching YouTube or uploading to porch in?

I'm on a return Kindle fire ATM as I'm not home. I can watch YouTube and stream movies as long as the battery acts.

Know a dude who just spent a grand on a new pc. He watches Netflix, that's it. Been better off with a tablet. Wanted us to take his old pc and try to save the memory at best but. Nope. They would likely throw us out for biohazard as his old pc is caked in sticky stuff. Used gloves to move it.

Anyway. Your wants and needs are vague. Fast, Super copper speed, lots of memory to stream?

Not unless you are uploading vids and such or doing graphics or other memory intensive work.