New computer for my parents

TriggerHappy

TriggerHappy

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My parents computer is in need of replacing but the type of thing they need is very different to what I'm used to. They need a basic windows pc capable of email, web browsing, MS Office and dad likes to play his old Battlefield 1942 game. Obviously they're just looking for a bottom end machine that includes a new monitor because their current one has all sorts of colour and pixel defects. Is the best (cheapest) solution to go for a bottom of the range dell for around £450 or is there still savings to be had by building your own at the bottom end of the market?

Any and all suggestions for good value solutions are very welcome, thanks!
 
I'm sure you'll be able to get something for less than £450 for those requirements. What size monitor are you after? I'll have a quick look around for you.
 
joesmith said:
I'm sure you'll be able to get something for less than £450 for those requirements. What size monitor are you after? I'll have a quick look around for you.
Click to expand...

Less than £450 would be great. I just plucked that number out because it seemed to be the lowest end after a cursory glance at dell's offerings.

Their current monitor is 19" so I suppose the same or slightly larger.
 
That zoostorm one is said to be a bit noisy for home use (fan I presume)
Depends what you're used to perhaps.
 
A build your own would be the ideal answer but having had my son build one for me I didn't realise how much goes into building ones own. This goes from selecting the computer modules to the actual build, mine is at the higher end of the cost spectrum but its something I would not have attempted. they would also be looking at windows 7 now as Outlook Express has ceased (at least on BT business tarrif) on Windows XP and changed to windows live mail or office 365.

There are so many computer packages complete on the market it is really a question of searching on the net for the best deal. Local stores are another option but you pay over the odds to cover their overheads

Realspeed
 
Is second hand an option for the base unit?

I bought a used Dell optiplex 745 from gumtree for £40. Already had a monitor so did not need that. Software licence might be an issue though if going second hand.
 
Self build is fine but there are advantages to have one with a warranty and 'point of contact' for problems ... automatic check for drivers etc ... would be peace of mind for your parents and less possible hassle for you, so my recommendation would be to go for a Dell.
 
Thanks folks. I'll have a proper scout around the web to see what is available and post back here if I have any questions.

Can anyone recommend a few good online shops for computers?
 
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