New Computer? Gabe .... Anyone?

[SewCrafty]

Looks like we have to get a new computer.

Now what I need to know is:

What brand/speed to you have and do you like it?

Would you buy online or in a store?

Gabe and other computer savy people, I was on http://www.virtualdr.com and reading all the posts there. They are just about unanimous in their comments to build your own. I realize these people are pretty much all computer literate (way more than I am LOL). But can a newbie do this?

Would you suggest I go that route? If I can read it, I can do it. But how difficult is it really? Mind you, I have never done this before. I have replaced modems and added more ram and a new sound card, but that is all I have done on the inside of a computer before.

TIA

[captclearance]

I am not very savy, I have purchased a couple of computers and I LOVE DELL !!!!!!!! I have gotten the best service... I bought a service package on it and that was a very smart move...

[couponchic]

Our last was a Compaq Presario that I absolutely loved and my mom just bought one last month. My current PC was purchased last year and it is a Sony Vaio and I love it just as much as the Compaq.

[SewCrafty]

Thanks ladies.

I have been looking at Dell's and Sony VAIO's today. They both look good. What I'm concerned with are the proprietary issues with some of these. I have an HP Pavilion and it is a pain to work on.

[AmyMCGS]

I can't help you with the technical stuff, sorry. I have a Dell... it's my second... and I love it.

If you do go with Dell, however, be careful-- we called for a packaged deal advertised in our Sunday paper and were told they were "out" of that special-- this was a Sunday night, mind you-- and it took several hours of DH arguing with them over two days on the phone before they finally gave us the advertised special. Other than that, though, I have no complaints with Dell as far as quality or service.

[mrscornbread]

I have an hp and would never recommend them because any time you try to call their customer service center you get people in the country of INDIA! I felt like I was buying American when i bought it, unless the bargain is very, very good, I will not buy this again.

I have heard so many good things about Dell also.

[isaacsmommy]

I have a Gateway, and for the most part have been satisfied with it. It's getting old and slow, so I'm thinking of making a change. I have a Dell at work and love it - if I were to buy a new computer I most likely would go with Dell.

[baronmom]

I have a Gateway and a Dell. I would never buy another Gateway as I have had way too many problems. Dell would be my choice for my next one.

[Gabe]

Dell end users also are serviced from folks in India.
You can always build your own. It's a great learning exercise. :-)

[SewCrafty]

Thanks Gabe, I think I am going to try that!