What type of computer should I get?

My desktop computer is on its last legs, and Hubby has graciously offered to replace it for me as a birthday present. He talked to a local independent computer store and Techie Son and has presented me with three options:

1. Have new Windows-based desktop built
2.Purchase a Mac Mini (an Apple desk-based unit)
3. Purchase a Macbook

I've been using Microsoft-based computers since the late 1980s, but have both an iPhone and iPad. I like sitting at a desk if I have a lot of typing to do. Ideas? Pros/cons?

Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product. Eleanor Roosevelt

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#1. I was skeptical at first too, but it's really easy to do, and much more cost effective.

I do not recommend chromebook.

I am Windows based so my owned software is all Windows based. From time to time I upgrade software and purchase CDs of software from several years ago at low cost from dealers in used or discontinued new software. About the only new software I purchase is the annual TurboTax on CD. I personally am not interested in 'renting' software or buying via download. I am not interested in an operating system other than Windows.

Win 10 is a hungry operating system so when I replace my computer it will not have less than 8GB RAM of memory so that I am not stuck with the 'skinny' operating system.

I do not need a built in CD/DVD player (though it is nice) because I have an external one that is USB.

I do use USB ports extensively so the more the merrier, but my minimum is 3 and I want them readily accessible.

My absolutely best computers have been HP, whether laptop or desktop machines.

Kathy, I work IT for a hospital and I talk to a lot of people working from home on their personal computers. I have talked to two people recently who had always used Windows-based systems but were persuaded to buy a Mac. Both regretted it because of the learning curve.
My vote would be #1, but make sure it has a SSD drive.

@heather shops wrote:

I do not recommend chromebook.

I just got one last month from BB. $179. Super fast and does all I need for entering reports on the road. So cheap that it was a no-brainer. I also have a custom built desktop and an iPhone.

good for you.

Kathy, get a computer with no gremlins. lol

Microsoft Surface Pro with a detachable keyboard and touch screen was amazing when I checked on one during a shop several years back. Can be used as a large tablet or with the keyboard attached like a laptop.

Unfortunately, I think they are WAY overpriced.

You could also get a laptop (Windows or MAC) and connect your old monitor and keyboard to it to make it function more like a desktop computer when at home.

I'd go with your option #1 and make sure you get plenty of RAM as mentioned above for running Windows 10.

#1 but a Windows based laptop.

Kim

Thanks for all the suggestions. These, plus innumerable Google searches, helped me decide to get a Mac Mini. It has great reviews, and since I already have some Apple products the learning curve shouldn't be too bad. I have a Windows-based laptop to fall back on in a pinch. And who knows what the future holds. If I have to go back to a full time job or get heavily involved in some volunteer activity it might be helpful to be familiar with both Windows and Mac systems.

Besides, there's not a lot of work in my area right now, so I have free time to devote to figuring it out :-)

Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product. Eleanor Roosevelt

I like laptops to the point where I can't imagine ever going back to a desktop. And as wrosie said above, you can always connect a monitor and keyboard and use it like a desktop.

Edited to add: And yes, minimum 8 MB RAM is a must.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/08/2021 02:23AM by panama18.

Hubby has to connect his work laptop to a docking station every day, and half the time he has an issue with getting it connected.

@panama18 wrote:

I like laptops to the point where I can't imagine ever going back to a desktop. And as wrosie said above, you can always connect a monitor and keyboard and use it like a desktop.

Edited to add: And yes, minimum 8 MB RAM is a must.

Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product. Eleanor Roosevelt

KathyG, I'm not talking about a docking station, I'm talking about USB cables for the mouse and keyboard and another cable for the monitor. Plug and play in Windows.

#1.

#1.
mac is for artists windows is for bizness... there are tons of problems with usability with macs because they are just a smaller company

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What type of computer should I get?

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