Suggestions for computer

[scott1120]

I am probably going to replace my computer early next year. Buy or build?
I already have photoshop, windows, office suite, and security suite. I can not afford top of the line, but looking for something that meets photo editing requirements. I would say I am preferable to windows, but just b/c I am familiar with them, but not a requirement.

Any help?

[Michael Lyons]

i built a computer this time last year for 600 bucks, and i love it. Although its outdated now.

[srwatters]

Check out the 20" iMac. Runs Windows too.

[mjdmike]

Like camera equipment, alot of it depends on your budget. Set an amount and get what you can.

You probably know alot of this, but here's my take on it:

If your current system isn't too old, you might consider using some of your current system's parts, and upgrading some of the performance critical components. If your motherboard/CPU is OK, then buy more RAM, a new hard drive, and get a powerful graphics card.

You could also get a new mid-power motherboard/CPU combo, graphics card, RAM, and a new hard drive for about half of what a brand new system would cost you. Do that, and you've basically replaced everything but the case and power supply.

But be cautious of what you try to upgrade and keep. What you can upgrade depends on your current system.

Some of the new systems are good, but you might find that you want a better graphics card, bigger hard drive, and more RAM than they provide. So by the time you upgrade those, or buy seperately, you've spent a small fortune that you could've put into something more important -- like an expensive lens.

I'm new to the photo world, so can't comment on editing needs, but I'd guess that RAM and the graphics card are critical. A mid-power CPU will work, but you must have a decent graphics card and a reasonal amount of RAM to work Windows and the editing software, or it will be annoying. Hard drives are relatively cheap, so get a big one -- or two, and a nice monitor of course for viewing those perfect shots.

You could always build one from scratch. They're alot cheaper that way, and you'll get exactly what you want/need. A trip to Fry's and a rainy afternoon and you're done! Just a thought.

Mike...

[groovyone]

I am a builder. Check out newegg.com for some great prices. I ordered everything in my current system except the Hard Drive (Fry's sale) and the soundcard (pillaged). I came out about $250 less than Fry's would have been. If you steer clear of the 'top' processor available, you should be able to get a great deal. Mine was the 3rd fastest AMD available at the time and only set me back $280 instead of the $400 or $600 options. Currently I am running an AMD Athlon, ASUS board, WD 400 GB HD, 2 GB of Corsair RAM (match pairs), a 256MB vid card (went with a cheaper one to upgrade later), new case and power supply (with 3 aux fans) for about $750. I am still using a 19" tube monitor for now.

You can usually end up with much high performance hardware in a self-built system for less money than a less powerful off the shelf unit, especially if you know where to shop. Plus, if you are like me, you get the joy of building it yourself! Of course with computers your gear will be cheaper in a month. My processor is now $160 I think.

Hopefully all that rambling helps...

[scott1120]

Great info guys. What do ya'll think about this one?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16856110043

[mjdmike]

Looks like a good one -- have fun!

[groovyone]

Looks good!

[AndrewCCM]

I built my dad a system based on the ASUS Vintage series barebones.. It was an Intel CoreDuo (prior to Core2Duo's). It works very well. The only thing...It is loud.. fans...but it stays cool.

I have built a lot of systems over the years, both AMD and Intel. I have pretty much always used ASUS boards too... I have had very good luck with them. I need to upgrade myself next year. I am running a Intel P4 3Ghz... 3GB RAM, 400GB RAID, bunch of external USB drives, etc..ASUS P4C800 Deluxe (I believe). Still runs really nice. I have had good luck over the years buying from MWave.com...