I am looking for a cheap and effective computer for my parents?
They currently use WebTV for internet browsing. They are not very computer savvy, so I am looking for a simple system for internet use and word processing
They currently use WebTV for internet browsing. They are not very computer savvy, so I am looking for a simple system for internet use and word processing
Get a compaq FS7600, I got mine for $420, it works great, has okay graphics, and works great for word processing and picture editing, I have windows xp home edition, 80 gb memory, hope this helps and good luck! (:
Get the new Mac mini . ()
It is quite cheap and generally Macs are much simpler to use. My parents and even grandparents use them.
Also in my time having a Mac I have never had a virus or any kind of computer meltdown. It’s actually never froze up on me either.
One thing to take note of is that if you do purchase a mac mini you will need a monitor. If you want one whole easy set, Id opt for a refurbished iMac they have the same guarantee as a new mac and are much cheaper.
Best of Luck to You!
I don’t like to Throw names out…everyone has their ‘preferences’ the best thing to do is shop around, Wal-Mart generally has good deals on HP and Acer, either of which would suffice for E-Mail and browsing. Other places to check with that I recommend are as follows…
I’m in the UK so it’s hard to say where you’ll get the best deal in the USA but take a look at NewEgg.com:
The cheapest computers are older machines sold by private sellers and you can very likely find a PC complete with a CRT monitor and a desk for under $150 that will do the job. But prices on new systems now are so low that it’s really worth buying a new PC. don’t forget about the screen too, you can buy a brand new, good quality 19″ LCD monitor for just $200!
I’d say $600 is enough to buy everything they need.
Tell them to get rid of that horrible web TV, it’s vulnerable to nasty malware like rogue-dialers (which is reason enough to never use dial-up at all) and get broadband. Honestly there is no reason to not get a broadband subscription these days; it’s cheap and so much faster (and safer) than dial-up it’s unreal.
When you choose a computer, try to get one with Windows XP rather than Windows Vista. I know Vista is very pretty but XP is easier to use and more stable, and if possible get a computer that comes with a security suite other than Norton; Norton is awful. If that’s not possible then buy a security suite like Zone Alarm or Kaspersky - it will have everything they need to secure the computer and it will update and scan automatically; most people that age will only update their anti-virus once every six months when it really needs to be updated every day.
If you can’t afford those extras then use these free security programs:
AVG or Avast! Antivirus.
Spybot S&D or Ad-Aware 2007 anti spyware.
Zone Alarm or Comodo firewall.
I’m afraid there are no “simple” computers because the security software has to be set up before you can use the internet properly and they will likely be confused by the messages that pop up asking them if they want to allow programs to access the internet - you’ll have to set all that up for them.
go to pricegrabber.com and look for a compaq presario sr5900 nx. My friend got one and it was only $320 and it works really well. 256MB dedicated gfx memory, 512MB RAM a big hard drive, and 3.4GHz Processor
For the best bang for the buck, look on eBay for a reconditioned/ refurbished computer coming off corporate lease.
Add a printer and they are good to go.
Are your parents happy with WebTV?
There is a new box called MSNTV2. Microsoft rebranded Webtv to MSNTV after buying it in 1997. MSNTV2 has the latest technology designed primarily for broadband and a home network. Still safe from all the nasty’s and looks great on my 65” HDTV.
Not everyone belongs on a computer.
After many years with Webtv - my Father-in-law insisted on a computer. He has gotten multiple viruses, browser hijacks, worms, etc. I’ve reformatted and reinstalled his operating system several times. He is incapable of proper maintenance and precautions required for a computer.
My Mother-in-law has happily remained with Webtv.
The cheapest computer may not be the best solution. I have a new Dell and the tech support is ridiculously bad. My aunt has had great luck with HP tech support. Something to consider with computer novices.
If you buy a Dell - google “Dell coupons”. Dell is currently offering $350 off a computer over $999.