EmailExperts say a budget desktop computer must be adequately equipped to run Windows Vista. These are the key considerations:
- Get a dual-core CPU. Intel Core 2 Duo processors are ideal for budget computers, but older dual-core chips are a good, cheaper alternative. In systems costing $500 or less, you'll still find some Celeron and Pentium D chips, but reviewers say Core Duo and Athlon processors are better choices.
- Get at least 512MB of RAM for Vista Home Basic or 1GB of RAM for any other version of Vista. Experts say those are essential minimums, however most also say both you and your computer will be happier with more RAM. If your budget is capped, other system compromises (such as a slower CPU or smaller hard drive) are worthwhile if they help you buy more memory. However, 512MB is plenty for Windows XP. A discrete video card can be a big advantage, because the computer doesn't have to share RAM.
- Don't worry about hard-drive size unless you know you have massive storage needs. Even the cheapest computers have 120 or 160GB hard drives, which will hold thousands of MP3s and high-resolution photographs. However, if you anticipate needing a larger hard drive, they are an inexpensive upgrade when you are ordering a new computer.
- Look for a DVD burner that can record to DVDs and CDs, as well as play CDs and DVD movies. Some budget computers ship with a DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive that can burn CDs, but not DVDs. You can fit more data on DVDs, which is useful for system backups as well as for storing and playing photo and video files.
- Check to see whether a monitor is included. Many computers don't include a monitor, which is an advantage if you don't need one. If you buy a computer online and add a monitor, it's usually cheaper than buying a monitor separately.
- Get a computer with a video card for better multimedia and overall performance. Most budget computers have a video chip on the motherboard instead of a dedicated video card. A large chunk of system RAM is then devoted to the display. An upgrade to a video card frees that RAM for other tasks and improves the smoothness of moving images on your screen. However, video cards suitable for the most demanding games are not possible within the budget price range. Integrated sound is standard, and powered speakers are usually included.
- Look for at least four USB ports and a FireWire port. You'll need these to hook up cameras, printers, keyboards and mice. Front-located ports are a convenience.
- Get a mini-tower for better reliability and expandability. A spacious case with open PCI expansion slots adds to the practical and functional life of the computer. It also allows for better air circulation and heat dissipation. If the computer has integrated video, a PCI Express slot provides an upgrade path to a dedicated video card. Avoid computers with older AGP slots.
- Make sure the computer has a modem if you have a dial-up Internet connection. Modems are no longer a given; some computers have them and some don't.
- Make sure you get backup software media if possible. If you buy a pre-boxed consumer model, you often will not get a Windows CD. In some cases, you will get a recovery disc, but that will force you to reformat your hard drive every time you need to repair or reinstall Windows (or you will have to buy a Windows CD). Check the specifications to see what, if any, backup media is included.