Cheap starter build

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hobbes2834

New Member
hey guys, i just came across your forum in desperation. my laptop is freaking out on me and i think i might need to get a new comp.
Ive been looking for a while and im pretty conviced on getting an intel duo or core 2 duo. The problem is im on a budget($300) but i cannot save up anymore because i need the computer asap.
I do mostly school work, browsing, and maybe a game or 2.
I know 300 is low but i would love it if i could spend even less. that way i can upgrade it in the future when i have more money.

i found one that i had my eyes set on,
http://www.ascendtech.us/customkititems.asp?kc=DTC2DE6300512
Thanks

let me know if i left out any important information.
 
That computer has several major flaws. It's got a C2D (not a flaw), so to compensate, everything else is absolute crap. There is a huge bottleneck..the only decent component in that computer is the Core 2 Duo. With those specs, you won't be able to utilize the power of a C2D, you'll just have a POS computer.

You're not going to be able to build/buy a computer for $300 that has a C2D, and not have a huge imblanace like the one you linked to. The E6300 itself costs about $180. Also Intel will be cutting prices in a couple of months by about $40 on that model, and also introducing the E6320, which will be the same price, but will have 4mb of L2 cache.

With that low of a budget, you're better off going with an Amd processor, as AMD has cut prices alot in order to compete with Intel's Core 2 Duo. Of course, you could tell us the problem you're having with your laptop, and we could try to fix it.

EDIT: Also keep in mind that the computer in the link does not come with an operating system, which will cost about $100 at the least. It also doesn't have a keyboard or mouse, speakers, or monitor.
 
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Eagle Tech ET-CAKSR4500-BK Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 450W Power Supply

MSI K9N6SGM-V Socket AM2 NVIDIA GeForce 6100 Micro ATX AMD Motherboard

CORSAIR ValueSelect 1GB (2 x 512MB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 667

AMD Athlon 64 3200+ Orleans 2.0GHz Socket AM2 Processor Model

Microsoft Windows XP Home Sp2b 1pk w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM

the motherboard has on board graphics and audio, and it is an AM2 board ready to upgrade later on along with a PCI-E slot.

Total cost is around 350.00 shipped.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16811117080
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16813130068
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16820145568
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16819103637
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16832116169
 
couldnt i always upgrade the one in the link? right now i just need a computer that surfs the internet.

also i was really set on the intel just beause ive used intel throughout my short life. can i build something that will include intel and still be under 300? i can go with pentium d too. so that in the future i can upgrade to the better c2d

my laptop just randomly goes to the "blue screen" for no more than a split second, and then just starts restarting itself over and over.
 
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My PC

You came to the right place for help! Heed their advice they helped me with mine and this Baby smokes:cool:
 
hobbes2834 said:
couldnt i always upgrade the one in the link? right now i just need a computer that surfs the internet.

also i was really set on the intel just beause ive used intel throughout my short life. can i build something that will include intel and still be under 300? i can go with pentium d too. so that in the future i can upgrade to the better c2d

my laptop just randomly goes to the "blue screen" for no more than a split second, and then just starts restarting itself over and over.
Click to expand...

I'm not sure what's causing your laptop to do that..post another thread in the "laptop" subforum and see what others have to say.

As for a new computer, you could upgrade the one in the link, but it's not worth it.

As for Intel vs AMD...I understand that you've only used Intel, but if you're not going to get a C2D (which I wouldn't recommend on your budget) the next best processor is an AMD. AMD was a much better processor than Intel up until the Core 2 Duo came out, and their processors are still excellent for budget computers. The Pentium architecture is crappy, and an AMD A64 (Athlon 64) will nine times out of ten beat it's "opponent" Intel processor in benchmarks and overall performance. If you really want to go Intel, it's your choice, but AMD is a better CPU for your price range.
 
I appreciate all the help you guys have given me so far, but damn this is a daunting process. I know you guys all advised against it but i cant help but to want the c2d. Also have you guys ever heard of a website called pricewatch? any experience buying from their dealers?

also im having a hard time with the upgrade dillemna, why would the computer still be a pos if i upgrade it later? should i just go with pentium d? if you guys feel that the amd chips are better, which models should i be looking for?
 
You're right to want a C2D, but unfortunately, it's just not in your price range, unless you can save for another few months.

As for Pricewatch and their merchants, I don't have any personal experience with them, but you can check with the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and www.ripoffreport.com to see complaints against a merchant before you do business with them.
 
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