Computer Processors

[Louise07]

Ive been looking on Dell website as my mom wants to buy my younger brothers a new computer. Im really confused as to the processors, last time I looked im sure there were not as many as there are now. There are Pentium Cores, 4's, Viiv??? Can someone tell me how I know what will be suitable. It will be used for everyday internet surfing, downloads, burning DVD / CD's etc. Thanks in advance

[vehelpfulguy]

If it is sold on a Dell PC with Windows then it will be suitable.

The ones you list above are Intel processors, but Dell are also selling AMD processors now so have a look at them, they are generally cheaper and work find with Windows.

Having read the PC magazines it seems Intel Pentium Core Duos are the fastest at the moment.

From the end of January onwards most PCs will come with Windows Vista on them which is replacing Windows XP.

My feeling is that you should wait for a PC with Windows Vista on it.

Although XP will be supported for ages there is no doubt that all future developments and upgrades from Microsoft will be aimed at Vista.

Some future software may even be Vista only and not run on XP.

And of course XP will go out of support before Vista does.

Others may disagree and say go with an XP machine as it is now a very good stable operating system. There is some merit in that.

If I were buying a PC now I would wait for one with Vista on it.

[mikeyp]

Many companies are offering a free upgrade to vista if you buy a windows xp computer now, I'm not sure about dell. In terms of processors, the Intel Core 2 Duo is probably a lot more powerful than needed. If you do get one, perhaps the E630, or the Pentium D 965. I just bought a computer from www.pcspecialist.co.uk. They're offering the free vista upgrade, and are good value.

[vehelpfulguy]

I would be wary of people offering a free upgrade to Vista.

Upgrades are not always straight forward and can go wrong or cause problems with hardware not working etc.

The last thing you want is to be taking the PC back to the shop in February because the Vista upgrade did not work.

Surely it is better to wait until the end of January and buy one with Vista already on it.

Anyway, this Vista upgrade offer is only Microsofts way of placating the PC shops because Vista is late.

Lets face it , you would not buy a car now if the dealer said they have a new engine coming out soon and we will send it to you so you can fit it yourself.

Wait for Vista, it is only about 6 weeks away.