My old Dell is getting slow and lethargic. I love my iPad, but I don’t know if I can make the switch to Mac. I’m afraid moving my files and pictures would be difficult, and I know some of my favorite programs wouldn’t make the move at all. I put a lot of pictures on the computer, and am always messing with them and mailing them out or loading them on genealogical sites. I have multiple windows open and switch between them often. For example, I might have a picture editing program open along with freecell, two or three internet browser windows each with three or more tabs. It seems that I will go to a site, click on something, it opens in a new window, then before I know it I have the entire bottom of my computer filled with things I can click on. I hope this makes sense.
What do I look for in my new computer? Is it lots of RAM or is it the processing speed I should look at? Or both?
Moving from Windows to Macintosh is usually pretty easy. Files and Photos move trivially.
As far as keeping multiple windows(and programs) open, any modern computer can do that. The more RAM, the better. I would recommend no less than 4GB - I use 16GB on my laptop and desktop Macs.
If you’re not planning on playing “heavy” games, just about any lower-medium end computer will probably suit you. Assuming you’re being budget minded, an i3 processor with 4-8gb RAM will have you moving along fine (assuming 64-Bit Win7).
If you’re looking to play recent titles, you can still probably get a system for ~$700 assuming you provide the keyboard, mouse and monitor. More if you’re looking to buy pre-assembled and not put it together yourself.
I get the impression you’re looking to buy a computer and not assemble one yourself. Correct?
Yes, you are correct. I put one together at a workshop once, and it was interesting, but nothing I would do on my own. I’m happy to hear I can get by with something modest (as computers go).
Browsing around Newegg, you can get an i3 processor, 4+ gb of RAM and a 500gb+ hard drive with Win7 for around $500. For what you’re describing (web browsers, photo editing, very light games) that should be more than enough to keep you happy. You’ll really want a minimum of 4gb RAM for Win7 and while you could skimp smaller on the hard drive I think you’d regret it down the road.
This is assuming that your video requirements are limited to Netflix and Youtube so there’s no need for a beefy GPU (only a real concern if you’re gaming).
Someone else may have a competing AMD based suggestion; I only really know Intel.
When I need a computer, I usually go to Dell and “assemble” a machine with the specs I want, and see what their price is. Then I go to the local stores and see if there are any better deals available. Sometimes, Microcenter or Best Buy will have a sale that beats the Dell price. If so, I get it. If not, I order the Dell.
I agree that the i3 is the “midrange” processor to get these days, and 4 GB of RAM is appropriate. I wouldn’t worry about the hard drive size; most decent system come with plenty, and you can always get an external drive to extend it. Good luck!
I assume you’re thinking desktop, but have you considered a laptop? That would give you more flexibility in where you work when you want it. Work on the computer (or Surf the Dope) while watching TV, for example. (You’d need a wireless router for wireless internet, if you don’t already have one.)
If your old system has USB mouse and keyboard, you could set your laptop next to the old monitor, plug in it and the mouse and keyboard, and have a dual monitor setup that feels like a desktop. I use this setup when I work at home. The extra screen space helps a lot with multiple windows open.
I know I did not make myself clear in the original post. I am thinking of replacing a laptop. I guess I use computer as a generic term for either a desktop or laptop, but I’m too old to move those around anymore and I go from room to room with the laptop and iPad.
The i3-2350M processor has high def video capability built into it so you’ll still be good for Netflix and stuff like that. I’m just sticking with Lenovo because of their customer satisfaction scores: you seem like you’d like to get something you can feel good about right out of the box.
I am really the most tech savvy person but the best computer for me so far are from Dell. Im currently using a Dell Inspiron 14R. Bought it last Dec 2010 right after I got mad with my HP netbook. With sound quality, it is amazing. But I never thought it was so strong and durable until it fell off my lap at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, face down. So far, I have not encountered any major problems with it. Now, I am drolling over Dell’s XPS 13 Ultrabook! Most of my friends who are into gaming are very fan of Alienware. I think it is also good.