i know most of you guys can build your own computers, so this may seem like a stupid question to you, but if and when i am ever able to buy a new computer, should it be a mac or pc and/or which brand? i already know compaq sucks a$s cuz i have one, but what do you recommend. if i'm annoying anyone please let me know ...
------------------
"it's easier to stay out than get out"
For the most part, I personally dislike MAC in general, though their new MacOS X is freaking awesome
If you are going to buy a full system I'd say go with Gateway. I usually build my own machines, but this was a gift, and I love the thing. I had a burner go back for some reason, and they sent me a new one, no questions asked, in about 3 days. Support is great, machine performs great, and I've been able to tinker with it so that it has everything I want.
You're basically paying for Dell's support, which is top-notch. Nice if you ever need it.
In all honesty, you could always visit the local mom & pop computer store, tell them exactly what parts you want in the machine, and have them price it for you. Most places are willing to do this, and you have the option of dropping by for support if you need it in a hurry. No need to wait for it to ship there, for them to work on it, and for it to ship back to you.
------------------
From another BBS:
"hmm... Cyrix III, huh? You can put syrup on sh*t, but that don't make it pancakes."
I would recommend going to a little computer shop around your area, some of them will sell you computers at wholesale price and customize it for you. Or you can go the dell/gateway route. I personally bought computers from a small computer shop and my dad got one from gateway. If you buy from gateway or dell you getting ripped off by their popularity and their name. If you have a problem with your computer (hardware) you might have to ship it to gateway/dell or they have a tech come in and look at it. If you buy from a shop, you can drive there and might be able to fix it on the spot! Name brand computers suck in the long run.
PC over Mac. Most of the software is written for the PC these days and seldom ported over to Mac's.
Brand? Build or have some one build one for ya, check around.
Good-Luck....
