Looking for a desktop computer

[PawsibleDogs]

Hi all,

I'm trying to help a family member look for a new desktop computer and am really not having much luck. I've tried Amazon with limited success, and am hoping you guys have some awesome suggestion(s).

Needs:
Desktop PC (Macs are most-likely out of the budget)
Windows 7 (or earlier) -- absolutely no Windows 8
Wi-Fi enabled
CD/DVD burner
500+ GB hard drive
Warranty available (at least 1 year, preferably 2+)

Preferably a Lenovo, Asus, or good quality brand -- would really rather not have Acer, HP, or Dell (has had bad experiences with them).

Already has a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, so those don't need to be included.

Thanks!

[frostfell]

newegg.com

[PawsibleDogs]

Thanks - looks like there are a couple candidates that may suit what she's looking for.

[Dogdragoness]

Desktops are becoming obsolete, as are laptops. It's a shame she doesn't want a laptop, because I have a Toshieba & I love it! I was going to suggest Mac, but they are horribly expensive ... Good but expensive.

[blue]

Ive had good luck with Acers, so Im no help. Lenovo would be my first choice, after Asus or Acer, I like cheap. Lenovo builds a good machine.

I dont do Win or Mac OS, so what is the machine used for? If your family member isnt afraid of Linux, a barebones no OS system may be worth looking at.

[CharlieDog]

I've had Toshiba, Acer and Asus netbooks/laptops for a while now, and wouldn't hesitate to suggest these models, but no experience with their desktops. The only desktops I've had have been Dells or HPs. HATE HP lol, loved the Dells.

Also, I canNOT stand Gateways. I don't know how they are anymore, but I hated the one my cousins had with a passion lol.

[Dekka]

I wouldn't say desktops are becoming obsolete.. at least not also with portables. Typing on a tablet sucks... they are good for consuming, not so good for creating.

I had a cheap acer that lasted (with some abuse) a good 6 years and still ran everything I wanted it too. Though I have abused my asus netbook even more

For what you want you could look at refurbished stuff. Often it comes with the same warranty.

What is it this computer will be used for? What sort of things must it do easily and comfortably. (I love my netbook for portability, but not for heavy typing, for example) I agree Ubuntu could be a good option too, though windows 7 seems popular. I too hate windows 8 (have a shell to make it look like windows 7 when I run it)

[blue]

Having done computer repair, I personally avoid Dell, Toshiba, Sony, and Gateway. Funnay thing is my two desktops are a Dell and a Sony, I hate them both.

[frostfell]

Desktops the only thing Iv had is custom build from parts

Laptops Iv had ASUS and Toshiba and love them both to bits. Someday when Im rich Ill get a Razer Blade

[PawsibleDogs]

Thanks all - she's very adamant about wanting a desktop (doesn't like the smaller screens with laptops or tablets). She also doesn't want to learn a new OS (I have a Mac that I love, and have had Sony Vaio and Toshiba laptops that served me well despite me being really hard on them ), so wants to stick with familiar Windows environments.

She mostly just uses the computer for light use (web, word processing, playing installed games), and just needs something reliable, easy enough to get repaired if something happens, and has the features she'd most-likely take advantage of (memory card reader, wifi because the U-verse only does wireless in her home, moderate HD, and burning capabilities).

She's looking into having her previous machine repaired as an alternative (sounds like either motherboard or graphics card). I do appreciate all the suggestions and will pass them along if she decides to replace the machine. Thanks!