Buying An Inexpensive Computer

Do you need a new computer but just don't have the money to pay for one?  Do the store prices for a new computer scare you?  Is spending $500 or $1000 just more than what you can afford?

If this pretty well describes your situation, you are likely considering the purchase of a used computer.  But, you are likely concerned that you might end up with something that's just a big paper weight.

If so, you are reading the right article.

Buying a used computer can be tough if you have no experience with hardware. 

Assuming that you aren't intending to use the machine to run a music video library, we typically suggest that you follow these guidelines as a minimum requirement:

Intel Celeron or Pentium III Processor 566mhz or faster (preferrably 800mhz or faster)
128mb of memory (preferrably 256mb or more)
6.4gb of hard drive capacity (preferrably 10gb or more)
cd/rom or cd/rw (preferrably a dvd/rom or dvd/rw)
8mb of video memory (preferrably 16mb or more)
multiple usb ports
modem
lan port
sound and mic ports
floppy drive

As for software, that's another story.  We suggest that you stick with either:

Windows ME
Windows 2000
or, Windows XP (either Home or Professional edition)

A computer with the minimum specifications set forth above will allow you to surf the web at reasonably fast speeds, prepare letters, manage your finances, swap pictures etc... and never have a problem.  Such a computer can be bought for less than $50 without software, monitor, keyboard or mouse.  A decent monitor can be bought for about $25-$35.  Keyboards and mice can be bought for no more than $10 total.
The cost of software can vary from $20 to more than $100. 

We carry mostly Dell computers and some Compaq models.  The Dell Optiplex GX110 is a nice tower computer that will generally do most every thing you could consider using it for.  And, it usually can be bought for less than $75.. and sometimes for less than $50.  The Dell Optiplex GX1 tower is a nice machine that will certainly get the job done and can be bought for between $35 and $50 generally.  Those are the two machines that I like to promote.  If you have space limitations and need something small, I suggest that you look at the Compaq Deskpro EN.  It is a nice machine and can be bought for less than $75 and sometimes for less than $50.

Contact us if you have any questions.  We are always willing to help you with your concerns.