computer for photography

[dioptic]

Hello,

I am thinking of getting a new computer (pc not a mac). It will have to do typical word processing tasks. In addition I'll use it to do Photoshop and other photo jobs like burning to a cd. What advice does anyone have out there about minimum needs, brands, etc?


Thanks

dioptic

[lancea]

Hi dioptic. There are several threads on this very topic, both currently and recently. You'll probably find something pretty quickly if you just scan through the thread subjects from now to a few days ago, or use the "Search this forum" link.

[lostdoggy]

Save yourself the time and just get a Dell, use coupons from techbargains.com or just do a seach for eCoupons. PS requires more memory then Processor speed, look for a 3Ghz and at least 512GB memory (1GB is better). There will always be some one out there telling you that it will cheaper to build it youself. Unless you know what you are doing and willing to spend the time to troubleshoot it . I personally can build a computer in less then 1/2 hour, but getting it run properly on the first boot is another story.

[PhotosGuy]

I went the cheap $400 route, added RAM, a 2nd HD, & it's works fine for a $550US total. I may have to wait 2 seconds for a 100MB file to resize, but it doesn't bother me. RSE & everything else runs faster than I do! ;-)

[Hellashot]

Just about any computer out there over $500 will do you fine. Stay away from Dell, they are expensive. They have good base models, but once you want to add more ram, floppy drive (which isn't standard), actual video card since most computers come now with video built into the motherboard which is only good for word processing and cheap games, and you also end up paying for even the 1 year standard in-home warranty they give - then they gouge you!

[benhasajeep]

I just bought a new Gateway. They are about 5% more than Dell once you get down to apples / apples. It's hard to beat Dell using cupons and thier sales. Wait till they give 20% off and a cupon is available. Can save some money then. I would suggets you get a base system. And then add what you need later. Memory is much cheaper bought on the side. As stated above they rape you on upgrades. Gateway is the same way. I went with Gateway as I had some issues will Dell's service (service problem not computer). I ordered a 3.0 GHZ with 512 ram, 128 video card, 120gb drive, built in card reader, DVD writer, and 19" LCD for $1,300. I could have gotten the same thing cheaper with a smaller case. But I wanted the room to expand on my own. The really cheap Dell and Gateway computers come with small cases and limited mother boards. As for memory try and find one with 4 memory slots. Normally 2 will be used for the memory they give to you. You can then add 2 without having to remove that original memeory (very easy to do). And make sure there is room for a second or even 3rd hard drive. They can be picked up for about half of what they charge as upgrades.

Basically 2.8 to 3 ghz PC with 512 ram (try and get 533 mhz - faster than 400). 120 - 160 GB hard drive, card reader, and DVD writer (will also write CD's). 128 video card, and monitor of your choice / size. Once you get the computer get another 512 of ram. It's amazing how big 1 PS file can get. You can wait on another HD until you start filling up your current one. But they are much cheaper than the listed upgrades. And are not hard at all to install.

[RbrtPtikLeoSeny]

I'd go with dell. They have great computers, and they aren't all that expensive. It's their dell preferred accounts that are expensive! The interest will absolutely kill you. Just don't use that and you should be all set. I have a two year old dell inspiron 5150 and it rocks! I had one problem with it where the whole system crash (No clue why, they inspected it and couldn't figure it out either) and after a long phone call they sent a guy over to my house and replaced the CPU, my ram, the mother board, my battery, and even the AC adapter. So, I most definately got my money's worth out of the 4yr warrenty I purchased!!! So, definately get one of those. Totally worth it. :-)

It is cheaper to build your own custom computer, but you can only do that if you go with a desktop first of all, and second, most people don't know how to do it properly... end up with conflicting part, software, ect. Custom comps are also nice because you can over clock your ram, cpu, play with the vid card settings ect. Dell locks their cpu's preventing you from tinkering with them in the BIOS. (b@$tards!) I'm also not a fan of dell Ram, but oh well.

If your interested in building a custom built then www.newegg.com is a great place to buy parts.

[RbrtPtikLeoSeny]

Correction; I just noticed that dell is allowing over clocking on some of their dual core processors. Amazing how fast technology progresses!