Budget desktop computer information

If you find yourself wanting more goodies in a desktop, you may have to spend a bit more and go for more power. Check our desktop computers report for information about higher-end systems. Consider, too, that most of the computers covered in this report can be configured in a myriad of ways -- enough to meet just about any budget.

The primary alternative to a cheap new computer is a good used computer. A computer made to be a $1,500 product would have better parts and build quality than one made to sell for $500. However, as with cars, computers have many mechanical parts with finite life. A used computer may have current issues, and problems are likely to develop sooner than with a new computer. Perhaps most important, a used computer will have no warranty.

In addition, like cars, computers depreciate rapidly the moment they are no longer brand new. A year-old computer is worth at most two-thirds of its original price. If you want a gaming computer and only have $600 to spend, a two-year-old gaming computer that was originally worth $1,500 to $2,000 would be better suited than a new $600 computer.

Some reviewers think that refurbished computers can be a good value, but experienced technicians report that they are more likely to be lemons. Replaced parts may have failed due to undiagnosed problems or poor design.

The Buzz

AMD will soon introduce its first quad-core CPUs. That will put an end to Intel's monopoly, and analysts expect a trickle-down drop in chip prices. If so, Intel Core 2 Duo dual-core processors should be a great value in budget computers as each chip drops a rung or two on the price ladder. The Core 2 Duo processors generate much less heat than their still-sold predecessors do. That makes them ideal for the small cases that dominate in budget consumer models.

Computer magazines and websites cited in our All the Reviews Reviewed Chart are the best places to find more information and reviews on desktops.

The Wall Street Journal's personal technology columnist, Walt Mossberg, offers buying advice in an April 19, 2007 column

For those interested in the Mac mini, Macworld has a brief article that summarizes some recent changes in that computer:

Manufacturers' websites:

Apple (Mac)

CyberPower

eMachines

Dell

Gateway

Hewlett-Packard

Lenovo

Velocity Micro