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Question

New Office Computer - Web Browsing, Word Processing, etc

Jan 21, 2015 8:41AM PST

I need to purchase a new computer for business use. I would like a good, reliable desktop that will handle typical business needs: web browsing, word processing, Quickbooks, etc.

I normally have always bought Dell and was thinking about an Optiplex. However, I saw the following computer at BestBuy for $249: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/hp-pavilion-slimline-desktop-4gb-memory-500gb-hard-drive-black/5815013.p?id=1219194065871&skuId=5815013

Is this a decent computer? I'd prefer to spend $500 or less, if possible. I have a 24" ViewSonic monitor, which I assume I can use with the new computer.

Can anyone give me any suggestions? I do often have a lot of windows open at one time, so I assume that extra RAM would be useful. I am also thinking about adding a second monitor, so I would like for the system to be able to accomodate that.

I appreciate any input!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Well, it's HP.
Jan 21, 2015 9:00AM PST

My last HP was my last HP. At 3 months I figured out there was something wrong and how to replicate the problem. As I had used HP products from about 1979 and onward I didn't think it would go so badly.

I called in and had no problem letting their support wipe the machine, update BIOS and more.

After over 8 hours (good thing I had set aside the entire day) they gave up and sent a box for repair.

The machine went to their service depot and was back in 7 days (so far so good.)

-> The machine promptly locked up in 5 minutes. The initial problem was still there so I made the call. Imagine my surprise as the support person said a few things like "We've done all we can" and "You should have bought an Envy."

That was at 3 months old. HP's rep also told me it can't be fixed because HP buys the BIOS. Incredibly. I really expected them to swap the model but that was never offered. 6 months of calls, surveys about my "experience with support" and in the ninth month the message was clear. HP was going to walk.

My last HP.
Bob

PS. There are many fine machines out there, just look on Amazon's best selling desktops.

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Is that for real?
Jan 21, 2015 11:28AM PST
"65W power supply"

Must have a VERY low power CPU in it, and no watts to spare.
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I think it is real
Jan 21, 2015 11:55AM PST
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The E1 is so bad.
Jan 21, 2015 12:19PM PST

How bad? The office got one with the E1 and it was so bad we gifted it to a local student in one month. Don't do that.

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Answer
I looked around Walmart, Bestbuy, Office Depot
Jan 22, 2015 7:26AM PST

My suggestion taking into consideration of least money for most computer that is all new parts and from a big box store for best or most dependable warranty coverage.

I found this windows 7 using Intel i3 chip that seems to be a bargain price. All new. I avoided any refurbished.

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CPUBOSS confirms this is many times better.
Jan 22, 2015 7:58AM PST
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significantly so too!
Jan 22, 2015 8:14AM PST

I didn't realize there was that much distance between capability, just it was better.

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(NT) Should call the E1 the Ewww.
Jan 22, 2015 8:52AM PST
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careful about the ewes, LOL.
Jan 22, 2015 9:26AM PST
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Answer
Are there any other options I should consider?
Jan 22, 2015 12:56PM PST
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you can consider paying more
Jan 23, 2015 3:33AM PST

to get more, like an Intel i5 computer. Those run about $450-550 price range.