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General discussion

Please Help Me Decide

Dec 25, 2004 9:38AM PST

Can anyone recommend a good computer brand or just a good computer. I don't want it off ebay or anything. I want a new computer from a good reputable company. I have a $1,200.00 limit. It can be PC or Mac. Doesn't matter. I would like it to be good with games. But I really enjoy the way mac looks. If you have a mac, please tell me how you like it because I have only used pc. And... if i decided on buying a mac, would I still understand how to use it. I have been using computers for about 5 years now. I really need help deciding. Please help and sorry for the stupid questions.

Discussion is locked

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Also...
Dec 25, 2004 9:47AM PST

I have Sim City 4 for pc, would i have to buy a new version built for mac or would it work also.

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And...
Dec 25, 2004 9:51AM PST

i understand the emac i am looking at is 1.25ghz, and the dell im looking at is p4 3.0ghz... i know the mac isnt THAT much slower and they rate the speeds differently. But im wondering how do i figure out what the 1.25ghz emac is equal to pc wise.

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Mac and games?
Dec 25, 2004 7:39PM PST

Be sure to check out how many games are compatible with Macs before you buy. A trip to your local computer store should give you a good idea.

You can buy a lot of computer for $1200 but, it won't be a gamer's delight. What kind of games do you want to play? What are the other uses you plan for this computer? Video editing? Making DVDs? Just as with everything you buy, you need to know how it will be used. You can configure a computer with a variety of hardware components. Post back with more information.

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Thanks
Dec 27, 2004 3:13AM PST

I don't have to play games because im trying to go to more console games. I want to burn dvd's and edit movies, but not professionally, just for fun. It would be fun to have a computer that can play decent games, for those awesome games that really catch my eye. (matrix online) Happy

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If you want to burn dvd's and edit movies
Dec 27, 2004 7:55AM PST

you will need a fast processor, plenty of RAM, (and I mean as much as possible), and I suspect a good quality video card. Also, a large hard disk, and a DVD R/W drive and software.

This all begins to add up the cost I'm afraid.

I understand that Mac's are good with graphic editing, but I know nothing about Macs.

Mark

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mid-range computer
Dec 27, 2004 8:10AM PST

Write down all of the components and features you want, DVD burner, good graphic card, sound card, etc., then vist the web sites of each manufacturer. See what they have ready made in your price range. I would also encourage you to customize it and see how much the different configurations cost.

When I'm looking for a computer, I start out picking the best hardware components offered, check the price and scale down from there. I compare prices, warranties and narrow it down to two or three models. When I was shopping last year for a new notebook, I would go online, pick out several different brands, compare the specs, prices and reviews. And when I could, I would look at each notebook or a similar model at one of the local retail stores. That gave me a chance to see what they looked and felt like up close and personal.

I also read reviews comparing things like graphic or sound cards to help me make a decision. Bottom line, you will never pick the perfect computer. But I do think with some comparision shopping, you can get a lot for your money.