There are many of us who dont want or need newer technology, who just want to surf the web, write email and the like. There are even a few who dont want any of that, just a computer to relive their childhood, and play some older games. NOTE: This guide was written in mid 2006, I am now updating it to 2008 standards.

Well, if you want a computer that can surf the web and do email at the minimum requirements, look for this in a PC:
1. At least an Intel Pentium III processer, preferably 500 MHz or above
2. You need to have a CD drive nowadays, and a 1.44 MB Floppy drive is preferable.
3. If you just need to do email and stuff, a 20 or 30 gigabyte harddrive should be enough.
4. Windows 2000
5. 128 Megs of RAM is the lowest amount you should even consider. Try to get a higher amount if possible, or buy your own and install it (Not recommended for less saavy users)
6. Price range: $10-$150
I recomend: IBM, Dell or Compaq, With Windows 2000

If you are a mac fan like me, minimum specs should be:
1. At least a G3 450 MHz processer, and although it may run a bit slow, its just about what you need.
2. At least a 10 gigabyte hard drive, but try to go higher, programs take up a lot of space these days.
3. Obviously, a CD drive. Most modern macs dont have a floppy, so if you want one, you'll probably have to buy an external USB floppy drive.
4. At least Mac OS 9 or above ( I don't recommend OS 9, OS X is a much better choice)
5. 128 Megs RAM or above (256 is preferable)
6. Price Range: $30-$200
7. I recomend: iMac G3 450 MHz, or PowerMac G4 450 or 500 MHz


And unless you want to go through the headache of formatting, partitioning and installing your own operating system, I strongly recommend you try to find a computer with an operating system already installed, and make sure it meets your needs.

Hope I helped you out.