New Windows or New Computer??

babyblooz

I am currently running an 'illegal' (so it tells me on screen) copy of windows. I did have it put on my machine when I was working from home for a small organisation, and I think they have updated or something, but anyway, I am not working for them now, so don't really know.

So, ... my machine also needs more memory, and I do want to get a flat screen, so, should I buy a new machine, with more memory and a flat screen, and get my copy of legal windows at the same time, or should I go for the other option of buying more memory, buying a flat screen and purchasing a legal copy of windows.

If I bought a copy of windows, do you need to keep replacing it for each new system you buy, or is it transferable to the next machine you buy?

I use my machine for the internet, and for storing my photos, and just personal correspondance, emails etc. My system is about five years old.

I am a complete klutz when it comes to anything, I mean ANYTHING technical, so I need a gentle answer in simple terms please!

And if you think I need a new system, any pointers as to where the bargains are would be greatly appreciated. Thanks everybody!

wakandem

get a new one. - try a dell

Fonz_2

If you buy an OEM copy of windows (cheaper) it's tied to one particular computer. If you buy a 'boxed' copy (i.e. one off the shelf in PC World) that's transferable.

Fonz_2

On the Dell note - they're currently doing a new Core2Duo machine with a 19 inch flatscreen monitor, 2gb RAM and 250gb hard drive for £319 delivered.

babyblooz

Thanks Fonz, but I have heard people on here moaning about Dell. Thought they were one of the places to be avoided???

Fonz_2

I've had a couple of Dells and not had any problems really. The components are generally not the best money can buy but they make good solid desktops for light/moderate home use I'd say - and the prices are crazy.

A lot of people say their machines are built to make upgrades difficult - it can be the case but the impact of this depends very much on how often and how extensively you upgrade.

wakandem

dell is one of those companies that everyone has an opinion. I have generally found them to be well designed, well built & goodvalue. I am surethere are some terrible stories about them but that is the risk you take with any company. At least you will have a legal copy of windows and the whole thing will be guarrenteed for a year & built to a modern spec. Thowing money like you were suggesting on an old pc is very expensive & frankly - not worth it.

Millionaire

Ive had a few dells and not had any major problems with them. I find their "next Business day" warranty to be very good and sometimes comes in handy.

Any big company will have "horror stories" no matter how good they are. People are more vocal when they have problems than those that dont.

Its just part and parcel of a large organisation.

cajef

I am using a Dell I bought two years ago, within two days the hard drive went faulty (a bag of nails suits the description).

I phoned Dell immediately and as it was less that a week old they sent a Dell engineer within two days to my home address, he fitted a new hard drive and re-installed everything, even though I had only taken their basic one year warrenty which does not include home visits.

Had no problems since, have been quite happy with the gear and cannot complain about Dell service.

albertross_2

https://www.dmxdimension.com

Blacksheep1979

that deal on the Dell is great, by the time you've bought a 19" monitor, say 1gb ram and a copy of windows you're looking at 2/3 the price of the Dell system.