New computer advice

[SSSid]

It is time for a new computer.
The Tesco special is now showing signs of age and is slow for gaming.
I am looking at adverts which are very enticing. Using phrases like "Quad Core" and "64 bit processor".
I want a fast computer for gaming and watching films etc.
But do I need a quad core processor and is 64 bit processing suitable for home use?
Dare I also ask, is it time for Vista yet?

[fiesata]

I have a dual core and it's really no faster than my single core

64 bit versions are suitable for home use but are not necessary

Go for a fast processor either intel or AMD - at least 2 gig of RAM if you're gaming a 512mb graphics card and a Hard drive of at least 300Gb - Vista is just XP in a fancy suit imho

[koster]

If you're buying a new computer then definitely get one with Vista, Service Pack 1.

Get a dual core or a quad core processor, 2.5GHz, 2-4GB RAM.

If it's a desktop, make sure there are plenty of USB ports. Some PCs have some on the back for things that are permanently attached, e.g. keyboard, mouse, printer and some on the front for memory sticks etc. If you use a digital camera, think about a computer with a built-in memory card reader.

The flat screen monitor should be 17"-22".

On the other hand, if it's a laptop, think about how long the battery charge lasts, the weight, and the size.

[ACtheTROLL]

for serious games you could be talking serious money
�1200 up
and forget xp - if you want directX10 (makes a heck of a difference) - graphics - 768 - 1Gb
http://www.nvidia.com/object/graphics_cards_bu y_now.html
quad - 3Gb ram (vista 32 bit can't see more)
http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/forum/223710-12- 32bit-vista-suffer-quite-limit
consider a raptor 10000rpm system disc

look at some mags for ideas.

you are talking (possibly) serious money - worth doing some serious research.

the mags may lean towards certain manufacturers - but the numbers are accurate and consistent

[Brooksy]

Aldi have a beastie for �390. 640gb hard disk, 3 gb memory, Intel Core 2 Duo 2.66 processor, 512mb Nvidia graphics,DVD/CD burner, Vista Home Premium with sp1 plus Microsoft Office (Home & Student).

[Ethel]

Doc - which pc are you linking to?

All I can see is a list of processors.

Brooksy - the only Aldi one I can see is �470 with only a 60 day trial version of Office

http://www.aldi.co.uk/uk/html/offers/2827_6766 .htm

Those specs aren't good enough for hard core gaming

[SSSid]

Thank you all for your answers.
After looking at your answers and other websites
I am going to plump for an Executer Pro from Novatech.
A bit beyond my budget for comfort but should'nt be obselete too soon.
I think I'll be brave and go with Vista.
After all, some people do like it!
Any further thoughts?

[Prudentia]

aldi, cheap good spec, no backup though