I need some help/advice here. I haven't purchased a new computer in over five years and am not really up to spec on what's available these days. I've been using a Dell but have been considering making my next purchase an Apple. Still not sure about that and may go with another Dell but the Apple's have me intrigued.

If you had $2,500 to spend what exactly would you get in terms of a computer?

Laptop, desktop....there's no restrictions.

 

the question is too broad...what do you need the puter to do? gaming? office? other?

apple? good luck with software and support.

 

Apple - definitely "cool," but with only 2% of the market, you're taking your chances with software and support. Also, Apple products (iMac, Powerbook, etc.) are typically sold at a $300-400 premium compared to IBM-clone products.

Dell - I've had a Dell Latitude for a few years (~4 yrs?). Not a bad computer, but customer service has really gone downhill. Good price, and easy to purchase. Finally died last month.

IBM - Use an IBM laptop for work. Have had this one for about 2 years now and have not had any problems whatsoever. My next personal computer will probably be an IBM, based on this expereince. Again, will pay a premium for name.

That's my experience with a few brands. Others may have different opinions and experience.

 

I need the computer mainly for simple purposes. Record keeping, web surfing, etc.

I download quite a bit of music off the web and want to be able to compile that together in the future and burn mass amounts of files to DVD. I do play games from time to time but in no way would consider myself a hardcore gamer. I don't need the top of the line in terms of speed and performance for games and such but I would like an above average computer so that I won't have to upgrade for at least another five years or so.

Does anyone know of any good forums devoted to this type of discussion?

 

I have a Sony VAIO, and it has never had a problem!! I would highly recommend it.

 

Based on what you want to do with it, you could easily get by with a $1000 range computer.

You only need to get into the $2500 range if you're an ultra-hard-core gamer looking for the cutting edge, or you doing some serious scientific computing.

 

I you want to take the time you can go to a CompUSA and have one built to order. They give you a excellent choice of componets. I have mine BTO @ $2K and a comperable Dell was about $4500

 

It depends what you want. If you want a PC laptop, I don't think you can go wrong with either IBM or Sony (or build your own desktop?) There are a bunch of different lines that can suit your needs well.

if you want to go the Mac OS X route, With Apple I'd recommend a Dual 1.8 G5 with a nice 400-500 dollar LCD to go with it. If you don't need that much power you can go with a Dual or Single 1.25 G4 PowerMac and get a nicer LCD. For laptops I'd recommend an Apple 15 inch Powerbook.

You cannot just go to the Apple Store and play with the OS. I was very uncomfortable at the Apple Store (had to stand up with these 4 foot tall tables) actually and found myself confused with the OS. Then my sister got an iBook yesterday and we hooked up a 2 button scroll mouse and uploaded some tunes and felt right at home. i have been discovering things ever since and it is very rewarding. I've learned more in 2 hours with the computer than I have with 10 hours at the Apple Store.

but if you want to get a PC, I have no objections to them. You can't go wrong with the 95% of the marketshare.

 

You should never spend anywhere NEAR $2500 on a computer. That would be a total waste of money.

 

Sounds like you could get away with a simple, lightweight Dell or IBM. The IBMs are usually a bit more expensive, but it's usually worth it. If you've never used a Mac before, I would suggest just sticking with Intel based puters. I don't recommend Sony, they can be a pain to deal with and tend to be on the $$$$ side.