[Faithsa]

Hi, I have a system that is a 1TB HDD w/2.5GB ram pentium 3 processor running xp.  I have a S.M.A.R.T. fail.  So I need a new hd.  I am currently using just over half of what I have so I know I need at least 750GB but I have no idea what to look for in processors as it's been years since I've had to buy a new pc.  We don't typically do gaming although my husband occasionally plays Railroad tycoon or something of the like.

Can someone give me some tips.  I'm looking for the least expensive way to replace/fix what I have and actually be in the current for electronics lol.

 

Thanks!

Edited by Faithsa, 31 March 2014 - 02:16 PM.

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Hello Faithsa

 

The present system is dated technology and so cannot be upgraded, we may be able to help you with backing up the data off the bad HDD should it be required.

 

 

Can you tell us what your maximum budget will be and in which country you will be making the purchase.

 

 

NB: I suggest a pre - assembled computer that already has an OS such as Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 pre installed as this will help keep the costs down.

[phillpower2]

Hello Faithsa

 

The present system is dated technology and so cannot be upgraded, we may be able to help you with backing up the data off the bad HDD should it be required.

 

 

Can you tell us what your maximum budget will be and in which country you will be making the purchase.

 

 

NB: I suggest a pre - assembled computer that already has an OS such as Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 pre installed as this will help keep the costs down.

[Faithsa]

I agree that that would be the most cost effective at this point.  I don't  really need peripherals (wouldn't be opposed to a larger monitor) but I no nothing about the processors past the Pentium 4 lol.  

 

If possible, as close to $300 or less but I might be able to get a bit more funds as I sell a few things.

[Faithsa]

And I have no plans to use the original windows 8 home screen.  I find it really obnoxious if i'm not on a touch screen.

[Faithsa]

oh and USA (sorry)

[phillpower2]

$300 is a tight budget to get everything that you need, one for you to look over here - if you can stretch your budget.

[Faithsa]

That's fine for a price range.   I am already using more than 500 GB though.

[Faithsa]

I know what sized hard drives to look for, I know what size for ram but what do I need to look for as far as processors?  I like to comparison shop and have no problem doing the homework.  Teach me about processors.

[phillpower2]

I like to comparison shop and have no problem doing the homework.  

 

You will be well aware then that in order to get the spec of computer that you need will cost you circa $400 minimum.

 

Purchasing a Windows 8/8.1 platform computer now will ensure that you do not have to pay for it when Windows 7 is retired in a couple of years, turn the new metro and other Windows features off in Windows 8/8.1 and it is just like Windows 7 but faster.

 

Intel CPUs are commonly more expensive than AMD CPUs.

For your intended use an AMD or Intel i3 CPU is adequate + it will help to keep you nearer to your budget.

The average user will not utilise all 4 cores of a quad core processor even when gaming, this will change in the coming years as software becomes more demanding.

AMD APU CPUs provide integrated graphics.

CPUs that have unlocked cores so that they can be overclocked are more expensive than the locked version of the core, an example of this is the i5 4570k unlocked CPU costs on average $10 more than the locked i5 4570 version.

You should select a computer that has 4 cores or you may find yourself needing to upgrade again in 2-3 years.

 

CPU benchmarks here

 

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