I assume your talking about a desktop. I'm far from an expert, but this is what I've learned:
Gamming and photos take up a lot of memory/space, a "workhorse" computer would suit those needs better (more $) but it sounds like you want the cost of a "budget" computer. So many other things factor in too, it all depends on what you want:
Do you want a PC or a Mac? There aren't nearly as many virus out there for Macs, but if you switch how will that affect all of your software?; compatible or replace?; and if you choose a PC, you will need (or need more) security software.
How much memory do you want; does it matter how slow or fast it will process? Gamers may want at least 128MB or 256MB.
Consider the importance of planning ahead for upgrades; if you don't some programs may not work properly (or something like that) a few years later due to manufacturers endless upgrading.
Do you want a burner; CD/RW &/or DVD drive?
Do you want a memory card?
Are you also purchasing a monitor? If so, what type and size?
Do you want tech support?
I know how frustrating this dilemma can be! If you want some really reliable & helpful info I can send it to ya (what I used to figure out the same ? myself), but it would have to be in an attachment and I'd have to get your real email addy.....
2007-06-24 11:19:33
·
answer #1
·
answered by LetMeBe 5
·
1⤊
0⤋
You are probably going to have to go with Compac models that have been put on sale at places like Frys. Gaming is one of the tougher requirements for computers especially if you want hot shot video.
The Compac computers we bought for office for $279 (+179 for monitor) have Ethernet, several USB, Firewire, audio jacks and places to put in almost any memory card on the front.
DSL is different from Cable. DSL is over an enhanced phone line and is only available within a certain distance of the switching station. Cable is shared with all the other people on the cable line and firewall protection is vital. In both cases the computer communicates with the modem via Ethernet.
2007-06-24 05:01:53
·
answer #2
·
answered by Mike1942f 7
·
2⤊
0⤋
You will probably need to put out another $300 to get a good gaming supportive computer. For $400 or less, you are looking for an outdated system that is probably not going to be supported for too much longer.
Dell might help you get to where you want, and give you payment arangements that you can afford, but remember, you get what you pay for...
Now, you might be able to assemble a computer that is better than what you would get from dell for about the same to a little more price.
2007-06-24 05:03:39
·
answer #3
·
answered by Vman 2040 3
·
2⤊
0⤋
Your computer will not come with any 'connections', if you are referring to internet. And good luck on finding a gaming PC for under $400. Not in this lifetime anyways.
Cheers
2007-06-24 04:56:17
·
answer #4
·
answered by Scrappy P 5
·
0⤊
2⤋
400 wont get you a good gaming system........but you can probably get one that plays simple games for that much...........buy a barebone kit and build it urself........newegg or tigerdirect has some cheap computer parts.........but if you lack the knowledge you can always go with dell computers
2007-06-24 05:00:29
·
answer #5
·
answered by buckshot 2
·
2⤊
0⤋