Help choosing a computer.

[Krosh]

I need a computer that can play games and causal internet use. It needs to last about maybe 2-3 years before requiring an upgrade.

I don't know if I need a good graphic card because there is not going to be hardcore gaming. The games will probably be sims and some flash games. All played in low-mid graphic settings.

It's for my mother and I haven't decided if laptop or desktop would be better. I want her to have mobility but at the same time be able to keep up with technology for the next 2-3 years. I don't want to tell her to get a hardcore gaming machine but then again I don't want to get her soemthing that will be outdated in 2-3 years.

I would perfer a laptop but if a desktop is better option for price/upgrade/speed then that is perfered.

Any thoughts? Thanks

 

[Onus]

Although you can no doubt build something nicer for your mom, unless you plan on providing any/all support, this may be a case where a reasonably equipped Dell may be appropriate. Of course, you're likely to get all her software support calls anyway 🙂. She could probably get by on 785G/790G AMD integrated graphics, but the ability to add a GPU later should be included. Because it will include the OS and take advantage of volume buying, the price will be a lot lower than what you'd spend to build it, although you'll need to sweep it of poopware.

 

[Krosh]

Yeah I agree, I'll leave room for upgradablity for GPU.

What about processor recommendations?

 

[IsabellaWinTeam]

I need a computer that can play games and causal internet use. It needs to last about maybe 2-3 years before requiring an upgrade.

I don't know if I need a good graphic card because there is not going to be hardcore gaming. The games will probably be sims and some flash games. All played in low-mid graphic settings.

It's for my mother and I haven't decided if laptop or desktop would be better. I want her to have mobility but at the same time be able to keep up with technology for the next 2-3 years. I don't want to tell her to get a hardcore gaming machine but then again I don't want to get her soemthing that will be outdated in 2-3 years.

I would perfer a laptop but if a desktop is better option for price/upgrade/speed then that is perfered.

Any thoughts? Thanks

Hi there,

I recommend you check out the Dell Studio 15. It has a fast processor, 4 GB of RAM, and 500 GB of hard drive space. It is great for basic tasks and for watching DVDs and listening to music. It is also very affordable at $649. What do you think?

Cheers,
Isabella
MSFT Windows Outreach Team

 

[natesgotgrapes]

I would agree with Isabella, very nice system and very affordable.

 

[Krosh]

Thank you Isabella and Nate

Between the I5 and I7, do you think the I5 is enough for casual gaming with the 2-3 years of future in mind?

 

[simon12]

The Studio 16s are great value but being a laptop doesn't have the "price/upgrade/speed" of a desktop.

 

[IsabellaWinTeam]

Thank you Isabella and Nate

Between the I5 and I7, do you think the I5 is enough for casual gaming with the 2-3 years of future in mind?

Hi there,

The i5 should be powerful enough for casual gaming. Many power-gaming laptops have i7 processors but those laptops function more as desktop replacements. If you will be doing graphics-intense gaming, the GPU is very important.

Cheers,
Isabella
MSFT Windows Outreach Team

 

[Krosh]

Thank you Isabella and everyone. Much appreciated.

 

[Krosh]

Best answer selected by krosh.