<p>…in computer matters. Is it worth paying, say, $500 for a desktop computer (sans monitor and keyboard - just the processor, of course) which will be used solely for keeping in touch with my family via VoIP and letter-writing (for my mom)?</p>
<p>See, the computer I’m currently using is awfully old and on the brink of collapsing, so I can’t use Skype or Google Talk because I need min. Windows 2000 (I have 98). I’m thinking of this as something worth investing in because international calls will be expensive, so instead of calling up my mom the regular way, we could just keep in touch via a good VoIP software (naturally, we would need a broadband connection for optimal quality).</p>
<p>So, what are your thoughts? Any particular models recommended for this need of mine (and the price range I’m looking at)? Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>If you’re just looking to use VoIP and word processing, get the cheapest PC available (try to get a name brand with decent support though, so you don’t have any headaches if something goes wrong).</p>
<p>The Dimension 3000 by Dell is a good PC that will fulfill your needs for about $500. It comes with everything you need as well (monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, speakers, etc.).</p>
<p>honestly the best 500 dollar computer youre ever going to encounter is a mac mini, and simply because its a mac. when you start spending that little money, youre not exactly buying a high quality machine. My friend has a mac mini and its turned out well for him. It wont come with the other stuff tho.</p>
<p>While I’m not pushing the Mini Mac, CNET posted a story today about a free 30 day trial offer from Apple On-line. Apple will let you try out the Mini Mac for 30 days. If you don’t like it, you can ship it back to Apple on your own dime (the only drawback). You’ll need to check out the Apple On-line story for all of the details. The deal will last through Oct. 31st. This presumes you have a monitor, keyboard and mouse. </p>
<p>CNet points out that Mini-Mac sales have probably not met Apple’s expectations. The 30 day free trial offer is Apple’s way of trying to create some excitement for it’s least expensive computer. The article also points out that Wintel basic computers are at least $100 cheaper and they come with keyboard, mouse, monitor and a cheap printer…</p>
<p>Since you’re in Kuwait, I’m guessing that you wouldn’t qualify. Still, it’s not a bad offer.</p>
<p>You can get a very good computer for $500, but not if you want a Mac. AMD processors are a great value, and are really good for someone looking for a high quality computer on a budget. Your best bet would be to have someone build your computer for you. You define the specs you need, or choose a basic model.</p>
<p>Go to a store of your choice or Dell.com or whatever, and get the cheapest PC you can. It will be able to do what you want, and I bet more. And you’ll get the monitor and keyboard most likely. I like the suggestion of staying with a good brand though.</p>
<p>Yeah, I’m definitely looking for a good brand, I don’t want a computer that’ll collapse after a while. The Mac Mini sounds like a good deal, but I think I’ll be looking at the Dell Dimension now… Thanks for all the suggestions!! :)</p>