Computer purchase help

[sunbunny]

I want a desktop I can play games on. Mainly The Sims, and maybe Spore. I'm looking at an ASUS at best buy, but I'm open to suggestions. Price is a factor, and I can't go over $900. Even that price is pushing it.

[TerriblePizza]

I'd say build one. Its not as difficult as it seems. This lifehacker article does a pretty good job of explaining it:

http://lifehacker.com/5151369/the-first+timers-guide-to-building-a-computer-from-scratch

If that seems a little daunting, then I'd go with a system (Doesn't matter the brand) with a 2.0 ghz+ processor (multi-core is a must), at least 2 gigs of ram (4 reccomended), and a dedicated graphics card (at least 256 meg, avoid anything that is intergrated into the motherboard.)

Asus and Acer have both stepped up their game recently and I'd reccomend them.

Personally, for something prebuilt, I've never had a problem with Dell.

[RedMage138]

For that price, your best bet is to build one. It really isn't too difficult.

[cookinwithgas]

I used to build my own, but now I'd rather have a warranty and one call to place. I ended up getting an HP desktop at Best Buy, buying my own monitor, and installing my own video card. Very happy with the decision.

That being said, there's nothing quite like putting your own system together.

[PanthersFanNY]

I bought an Asus laptop from best buy and I love it. I couldn't be happier.

I would definitely recommend an Asus to anyone.

[Kevin Greene]

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dddoma4&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&kc=desktops_great_deals

Select either the Radeon or the NVidia graphics card and you have a fast comp with a 24" LCD.

[sunbunny]

dangit i'll try again to link

Please tell me what you think of this one. I can get it in a bundle with the monitor.

i can't get it to link.

[sunbunny]

Asus - Essentio Desktop with Intel® Core™ i5 Processor

Model: CG5275-AR00

Intel® Core™ i5-650 processor

Features a 4MB L2 cache and 3.2GHz processor speed.

The all new 2010 Intel® Core™ i5 processor

Features smart 4-way processing performance with a speed boost.

Intel® Turbo Boost Technology

Automatically speeds up your processor when your PC needs extra performance. Intel® HD Graphics are built into Intel's smart new processors.

8GB DDR3 memory

For multitasking power, expandable to 16GB.

Multiformat DVD±RW/CD-RW drive with double-layer support

Records up to 8.5GB of data or 4 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media. Supports DVD-RAM.

1TB Serial ATA hard drive (7200 rpm)

Offers spacious storage and fast read/write times.

Intel® HD graphics

Features up to 1759MB shared video memory for lush images. HDMI output for connection to an HDTV. High-definition audio support with 8-channel (7.1) capability.

Digital media reader

Allows for easy transfer of data.

10 high-speed USB 2.0 ports

For fast digital video, audio and data transfer.

Built-in 10/100/1000 Mbps Fast Ethernet LAN with RJ-45 connector

For flexible wired Web connectivity options.

Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition 64-bit operating system preinstalled

Provides a stable platform for word processing, Web navigation, gaming, media storage and more.

Software package included

With Adobe Acrobat Reader 8.0, Microsoft Works 9.0 and more.

.

[sunbunny]

I've also been looking at the ibuypower systems.

[Kevin Greene]

That Asus is $859 without a monitor and has onboard graphics?

Ck the Dell I linked to, with a 24" LCD and add the best nVidia GeForce GTS 240 1024MB video card it's only $30 more than the Asus and has a 2 year warranty.