need help looking for a new computer

[sportsdude]

So I am looking at finally get a new computer. I want some assistance from some of the more tech-savvy people here because as I've started shopping I keep seeing more and more computers that sort of look like what I want, but in truth I just don't know.

Things I am looking for: I want it to be a great multimedia PC desktop. I want it to be great for gaming, videos and music. I do a lot of writing as well but I can operate out of google docs, have for a long time now. I am intrigued by the all-in-one computers but I don't know how well those handle yet, or if they're practical for what I'm looking for and what I'm looking to spend. I do not want or need a giant monitor. In fact average size is more than fine. Also, I am working with a budget of around $1,000.

Some computers I have taken a look at include the Dell XPS desktops, a couple different ASUS all-in-ones, the Gateway FX6850-51u.

I'm not sure if what I'm looking for can be achieved for less than $1,000. All suggestions are welcome, thank you.

[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: need help looking for a new computer

Are you interested in building your own or do you just want to just get one from Dell or somewhere that is already put together?

If you want a PC that is good(hard to say great) for gaming and other multimedia that can easily be achieved for $1,000. I built mine 3.5 years ago and it was around $800. I am just now upgrading it for the first time.

I'm a nerd. I get a lot more satisfaction out of piecing out and building them. There are a few of us here that can piece one together for you.

[Scott]

Re: need help looking for a new computer

I agree, building your own is definitely the better option.

[sportsdude]

Re: need help looking for a new computer

Are you interested in building your own or do you just want to just get one from Dell or somewhere that is already put together?

If you want a PC that is good(hard to say great) for gaming and other multimedia that can easily be achieved for $1,000. I built mine 3.5 years ago and it was around $800. I am just now upgrading it for the first time.

I'm a nerd. I get a lot more satisfaction out of piecing out and building them. There are a few of us here that can piece one together for you.

So I have a dumb question, and that is: If I build my own computer, does that mean I literally buy each part individually and put it together myself? Or do I just order the options I want and a computer is built for me?

I work a full-time job and have a part-time job on top of that, so if I have to actually put it together myself I don't think I'd want to deal with that even though I do understand it is the more ideal option.

[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: need help looking for a new computer

It is buying each individual part and putting it all together. It doesn't take as long as it looks. You will spend more time installing Windows and messing with that then you will putting it together.

You can find a good one on Dell. You just won't get as much out of your money as you would. It's literally all the same parts. You don't get Dell brand RAM, CPU, ect. I was doing one of those XPS builds where you can customize and they want you to add $230 for a card that looked to be under $180 on Newegg.

I spent yesterday adding some memory, dusting, adding some fans and reinstalling windows. So I am gonna push you towards the building route lol.

Even if you don't. It seems like you are interested in stuff like this so doing the research and all that can be pretty educational. Then if you do go to Dell or wherever you know what to look for.

[bichettehappens]

I would definitely opt for building a computer. If you have a friend who's done so then have him help. I've "built" 2 computers in the last year, one for making music and editing video for about 600 or 700, and the other was an HTPC for about 500. Both are awesome

My friend did most of the putting stuff together, but it all seemed simple enough. Like someone else said, the longest part is the windows installation.