Help me pick out a new computer - My budget is $1,000

[Herman Munster]

And I would like at least a 19" lcd screen to go with it. What would be the best bang for my buck? I haven't gotten a new computer in 5 years and don't know what to look for in a new one.

Thanks!

[LibraLiz1973]

1. go to

ubid.com

I've gotten several top of the line computers from them at wayyyyy below cost and have never had a problem!
They are typically refurbed- basically someone returned it and now they have to sell it on the cheap.

ALso, I just bought an Apple G4 from Craigs list for $500 - 17 inch, with Word already installed
Lovely machine! Super memory- its a beauty. The guy was basically giving it away because he got the new G5. This computer (the apple) still has 2 years of warranty left on it!!

craigslist.com

[PghTiny]

2. What kind of stuff do you want to do with it?

Internet tasks (e-mail, web, IM), productivity (word processing, spreadsheet), and casual gaming seem to be the big 3 for many users. I saw a refurb 20" iMac (Core 2 Duo 2 GHz) for $999, but Apple stiffs you for sales tax. Also, what OS do you want to use?

[Herman Munster]

3. mostly internet and word

For OS, probably vista. I've never used a mac before and they tend to be more expensive. Have people had good experiences with dell or gateway?

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

5. I had very good luck with my Gateway

It did everything I needed it to do. The only reason I don't have it anymore is that I really wanted to try a Mac, and we gave the Gateway to my husband's cousin.

[BlooInBloo]

4. newegg.

[Mutley]

6. .

http://www.newegg.com/

[DarkTirade]

7. Find a geek to build it, get the parts at newegg and/or tigerdirect.com.

I built mine for about 500 bucks sans monitor, and it's great. Only thing I didn't bother to invest extra money in was a 3d card, because I'm too poor to buy the newest games anyway. :)