Buying a computer

[theclefe]

I should be heading home within a few months and I figured I use some of the money by wife hasn't taken to buy a really nice gaming computer. I had a PS2 and I don't think I want to get a PS3, but I still want to play games (She whines sometimes and I need to ignore her.)

I want to get a computer that can handle a top-of-the line game, but i'm not sure what components I should be focusing on. I have dealt with mostly laptops recently so I'll like some help.

Lets go under the assumption that price is not an issue, what should I get?

[bleach168]

If you're looking for a laptop...

http://www.dell.com/content/products/pr ... iew#tabtop

[theclefe]

I figured I should get a desktop computer. More pop for the buck right? I was under the impression that Laptops are limited in their capabilites.

[teddy ballgame]

I figured I should get a desktop computer. More pop for the buck right? I was under the impression that Laptops are limited in their capabilites.

Yeah if you want a top of the line gaming computer you don't want a laptop.

[pitcherintherye]

Intel Conroe processor debuted late last month (which is why all PC's took a considerable price drop these past weeks), and it should be available to the public soon. As benchmarks can attest, there will be nothing faster than Intel's Conroe once it hits the market. Soon following will also be intel's next generation Memron chips designed for the laptop, so you'd definately want to wait for those if you're planning to buy a mobile pc.

[theclefe]

I have done a little asking around. I have a better Idea of what I'm looking for. I have some specs that I would like your opinion on.

Monitor: I am looking to get an LCD flatscreen that also works as a TV. Someone suggested Samsung. Does anyone have one, or a diffrent brand?

Video card: A little sketchy on the details, but it was suggested to get at least a 256mb card.

Processor: Still looking into this, but I was told to get at least a 2 Gigahertz or more.

RAM: at least 2 gig

Network Card: at least a gigiabit.

HAve any of you purchased alienware or voodoo computers?

[boyroger]

DO NOT buy a Dell.

L-A-M-E

[sox 06]

DO NOT buy a Dell.

L-A-M-E

I've had a Dell for 3 years and I've been happy with it. Their customer service although not great has fixed all of my problems so far. I don't use it for gaming so I wouldn't know in that aspect but as a computer it runs great for me.

[teddy ballgame]

DO NOT buy a Dell.

L-A-M-E

Do you have any reason for this? Every computer in my house and dad's house is a Dell and they have never caused any problems.

[boyroger]

In my experience in the workplace, and at home (gaming), I have found the Dell to be rather limited in it's upward mobility.

We use very advanced software (i.e. very large .exe and add-ons, etc.) at work and sometimes are locked up despite megs of ram.

Our IT consultant has oodles of reasons for this but I neither understand them all, nor is there enough room here to enter them.

I apologize for being vague w/the initial post.
A higher end Dell is a decent pc for most tasks, but not heavy duty.