Recommendations to replace existing computer

Topic

New Reply

We need a new computer because of XP lack of support. My son, who built the computer we are using, said we should not get a Windows computer but switch to iMac because of the way Windows is going. My husband grumbled when he heard this but, anyway you look at it, it’s going to take some time getting accustomed to a new computer.

I need some input from forum members before we (I) make a decision about purchasing a new computer.

Any assistance will be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Reply | Quote

Replies

To be able to advise you appropriately it would help if forum members knew a little bit more about what you and your family currently use your present PC for and what you want to be able to do with any replacement in the future.

(For example, if your needs are limited to just being able to surf the internet safely and get email then it’s possible that another alternative may be a better proposition.

The more you are are to tell us about your circumstances, what you want to be able to do with a PC, what IT support you have, etc., the better forum members can provide their input.

Hope this helps…

Reply | Quote

It’s used for e-mail, social networking, some office work, tax preparation, kids games, photos. IT assistance: if I can’t figure it out, I’ll post here or other forums, call my son, look in a reference book about whatever system we are using. I subscribed to Langalist from the time we purchased out first computer and learned so much from that. I don’t know what other information you need.

Reply | Quote

If you Google mac vs windows you will see a number of links both for and against the Mac and Googling what is an imac will give you a few others which also may help you to decide as to your needs.

Reply | Quote

Hi suvi – e-mail, social networking, office work, kids games and photos can all be done on an iMac (running OSX). They can also be done on your existing PC if you installed a Linux distribution, something like Linux Mint (which is one of the Linux distributions that looks similar to Windows). I don’t know about tax preparation ‘cos I’m in the UK and don’t know about the US. If you prepare taxes online using a browser then this could also be done using OSX or Linux.

The iMac has a very good reputation for being intuitive to use but is relatively expensive in comparison to a Windows PC. Linux is usually free but has a reputation for a steeper learning curve (which is why I mentioned Linux Mint so the change doesn’t come as too much of a shock). Of course, these statements are only gross generalisations but it will give you a slightly better idea of what’s possible.

One thing to consider is what peripheral equipment you use, e.g. printer, scanner, etc. as there could be some issues changing to a non-Windows OS.

Another thing to consider is IT support. The Lounge here has an immense collection of knowledge about all flavours of Windows (and Microsoft applications) but far less so for other operating systems. For example, the Non-Microsoft OSes sub-forum has only 464 posts in total in comparison to the thousands in the various Windows sub-forums… the Windows 7 sub-forum alone has 5,096 posts. There is thus the chance that your questions may not be answered by the same amount of informed contributors.

Did your son say exactly why he advised a change to an iMac? Is it because he uses an Apple device himself? I must admit I didn’t actually like using Windows 8 so when I needed a new laptop recently I bought a MacBook Pro from Apple. I’m over the moon with it but still tend to use (and love) my Windows 7 desktop PC, whilst I become familiar with OSX.

Reply | Quote

Hi suvi,

IMHO, the consequences of a lack of support from MS for Windows XP are vastly over-rated. For however long anti-virus vendors keep supporting XP (and I know of none that have said they plan to stop anytime soon), your existing XP box will likely remain as secure as it is now. Yes, it’s possible some cretin will devise some new form of malware that anti-virus vendors can’t guard against on an XP-box but, until then, I wouldn’t be inclined to worry too much about it. If you’re still worried, you could quite possibly simply upgrade the OS on your existing box to Vista or, preferably, Win 7, for a minimal outlay.

As for whether it’s worth switching to a Mac for what you’ve said you do, that’s something only you can decide. None of your current software is likely to run on a Mac (unless you install Windows (XP! or Vista) on it, which makes me wonder why you’d bother getting a Mac if that’s all you’re going to do), so you’ll have to go to the expense of replacing that, whereas you might not have to replace so much if you stick with Windows. Furthermore, Macs are no more secure than Windows PCs and typically cost a whole lot more for the same level of performance & security. Plus you’ll have to learn all over again how to do everything you now do on a PC differently on a Mac. As for your son’s advice that you “should not get a Windows computer but switch to iMac because of the way Windows is going”, that’s nothing more than prejudice – unless he’s privy to the boardroom discussions of both Apple & Microsoft, I am certain he knows nothing of consequence as to how either Windows or Mac “are going” in either absolute or relative terms vis-à-vis their future OS directions.

Cheers,
Paul Edstein
[Fmr MS MVP - Word]

Reply | Quote

WAIT
If you are an experienced computer user who has been a long time signatory to the Langa List/Windows Secrets newsletter,
then I figure you’ll be experienced enough to understand basic computer security and backup regimens.
That will give you all the knowledge needed to protect yourself in the interim while you decide on your computing direction.
There’s no big rush as Windows XP will not self destruct. Experienced users can successfully hold on to it for a little while longer.
*Windows 9 may be something worth waiting for.
*Save up for an Apple based system and take the time now to learn about them.

Keep your current computer if…
If the current computer you have isn’t too old, say about 4-5 years, you could just clean install a genuine copy of Windows 7 32 bit and you’ll be fine.
There will not be a whole lot of learning to do with Windows 7. Just make certain you run the upgrade advisor for hardware and peripherals compatibility.
You could even install a 64 bit version of Windows 7 if your processor is compatible, just add more RAM as needed and get an SSD.

Buying a new computer…
If your current computer is too old and you need to replace it, then Windows 7 is the way to go if you want to stay
within the PC mindset with the minimal amount of learning curves.
Upgrade your Office software and peripheral devices if they’re antiquated.

Even a PC with Windows 8.1 preloaded will not be too great a learning curve.
Just make certain you upgrade your office if it’s current version was created during XP or Vista’s time.
We can pretty much offer all the 8.1 support you’ll need when it comes to finding your way around the OS and setting things up the way you might with XP. (start menu and such)

There is a lot of discontent With Windows 8 right now and that’s why I’ll suggest avoiding it if you are someone who requires a lot of support.
Windows 8’s future iteration will prove to be much more mature and user friendly as we are starting to see MS responding more
to much of the discontent associated with it. With a move to Windows 7 you’ll have plenty of time to wait it out.

APPLE
Apple will be a bigger learning curve if your new to it, and probably a bit more expensive too.
We’re a PC community and therefore offer little support when it comes to Apple software and operating systems/settings.

LINUX
Linux will be an even greater learning curve, even with the simpler UI of Ubantu.
If your son is an experienced Apple OS or Linux user than go for it, nothing beats free support for life from an experienced family member.

Reply | Quote

If your son is an experienced Apple OS or Linux user than go for it, nothing beats free support for life from an experienced family member.

Funny! That son is going to be busy!

Group "L" (Linux Mint)
with Windows 10 running in a remote session on my file server

Reply | Quote

If the dropping of support for XP concerns you, be aware that Apple routinely drops support for older versions of OSX with almost no notice. You are pretty much forced to update/upgrade. Don’t believe any of the Apple hype either. They have issues with the huge updates that are regularly released just as PCs do. Apple gets a pass from the tech press about anything negative with software and security.

Also, if/when there is a future shift in CPU architecture you can count on Apply to leave its installed base high & dry.

Joe

--Joe

Reply | Quote

I use both Windows [XP, Vista, 7, 8.1] and MacBook Pro [now up to Mavericks]. Going from OS X Snow Leopard to Mountain Lion cost $20 and going to Mavericks was free, latest upgrade policy of Apple.

Before you wonder "Am I doing things right," ask "Am I doing the right things?"

Reply | Quote

Microsoft may be going the same route as the Windows 8.1 upgrade was also free. The Windows 8.1 update to be released tomorrow is also free but I think that’s more of a Service Pack than the 8.1 was.

Jerry

Reply | Quote

We need a new computer because of XP lack of support. My son, who built the computer we are using, said we should not get a Windows computer but switch to iMac because of the way Windows is going. My husband grumbled when he heard this but, anyway you look at it, it’s going to take some time getting accustomed to a new computer.

I need some input from forum members before we (I) make a decision about purchasing a new computer.

Any assistance will be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

If your son is your IT guy, then you should probably go with what he suggests, since he will be supporting your computer.

Personally, if I were in your shoes, I would probably switch to Windows 7, since it will be supported for some time to come, and it is a lot like what you currently are using. In fact, it is likely that all of your software will work in a Windows 7 environment. On the other hand, you’ll need to get all new software, etc., if you switch to the Mac.

You’ll probably end up paying a lot more to switch to the Mac than to switch to Windows 7.

Group "L" (Linux Mint)
with Windows 10 running in a remote session on my file server

Reply | Quote

You’ll probably end up paying a lot more to switch to the Mac than to switch to Windows 7.

That’s a given, my MacBook Pro with only 4GB RAM was more than twice what a comparable Windows Notebook would have been at the time. Most all Mac computers are more expensive and then there’s the cost of programs. Microsoft publishes a version of Office for Mac, I bought version 2008 on a special that was offering a free upgrade to 2011.

Before you wonder "Am I doing things right," ask "Am I doing the right things?"

Reply | Quote

As several others have suggested, consider the ability to upgrade to 7. If you missed the link to the Win 7 upgrade checker to see if your computer is a candidate, here it is again.

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=20

Reply | Quote

I have a neighbor who recently bought a Mac to replace her XP computer. She is now having misgivings about the purchase.

I used to help her out with problems on her Windows machine, but I can’t be much help for a Mac user.

Bill

Reply | Quote

I have the advantage of age, 72yo. So I’m looking at all aspects of this debate. I remember somewhere around 1980 I got a Franklin Apple compatible computer. Then along comes DOS/IBM/Microsoft and software prices on these machines just dropped. Apple had it all but kept it closed and expensive. Commodore before this was a great favorite of mine….Hmmm 64k, what programs were written on that small memory/hard drive storage. I tried Win8. Microsoft should have had some actual users input before putting out their first edition. Don’t think I need to go much into what I think about that system. Win7 is really a good system but I always am curious. So I got a Google Chromebook, what you say….heresy! Win7 is still my favorite but for older people I have to recommend Chromebook. It is the most bulletproof and simple and reasonably priced computer around, especially the new Intel Op System. So, for old people, I would certainly have someone look at the Chromebook. My how time passes, I speak about old people and……..I am one. Anyway, my 2 cents for what it’s worth. Should you have an adventuresome elder, have them go ahead and put a co-operating system on also, I added Saucy Salamander, should keep them entertained for awhile.

Reply | Quote

Win7 is still my favorite but for older people I have to recommend Chromebook.

IMHO Google Chromebook is just an expensive web browser. Try using one without a fast internet connection and you won’t get very far and the on-line apps (including MS Office) available for it aren’t suitable for serious computing (I’ll grant you that few retirees are likely to be concerned with that – unless they’re into photo editing). For the same price you can get a fully-function laptop with an order of magnitude more storage.

Cheers,
Paul Edstein
[Fmr MS MVP - Word]

Reply | Quote

Hi Paul,
Methinks you spoke in haste with no actual knowledge of the Chromebook. Mine is an Acer 720, Haswell processor, 4gb ram, and, I’ll grant you, only 16gb memory. It comes with 100gb cloud. I am ignorant of the WiFi speeds in Australia but 1mb/sec would certainly be enough. If there is mostly dial-up at 56k then things would be slow. It does have a USB 3 port so just how much fast memory do you need internally? Then, if you put on the Kubuntu, Ubuntu, whatever, you have a high speed fully functioning computer that will process video, image editing, whatever. It starts up in 8 sec and needs no virus protection. Runs on battery for maybe 8 hours. Hdmi port with fine video processing. Best of all, old folks would have a hard time disrupting any aspect of the system. It cost US$ 250. Maybe that is a lot in your world for a fine computer but not in mine. It is certainly more than just an expensive web browser.
From the Old Guy

Reply | Quote

Stick with XP for now. Make sure you have a good anti-virus program such as AVAST FREE or AVG FREE, etc. Use Chrome browser. Don’t surf to porn websites. Don’t open emails from anyone you don’t know. And never, ever slap a man who’s chewing tobacco. Follow these suggestions and you’ll be OK for several more years.

Reply | Quote

To all of you who have replied, I thank you for your advice. We decided to purchase a computer with Windows 7 installed with capability of being upgraded. Now I need to get a good reference book for 7.

Reply | Quote

To all of you who have replied, I thank you for your advice. We decided to purchase a computer with Windows 7 installed with capability of being upgraded. Now I need to get a good reference book for 7.

Your best resource around, next to the lounge of course, is your very own search engine;
https://www.google.com/#q=Windows%207%20guides

Reply | Quote

To all of you who have replied, I thank you for your advice. We decided to purchase a computer with Windows 7 installed with capability of being upgraded. Now I need to get a good reference book for 7.

A good book is Windows 7 Inside Out, Deluxe Edition (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/windows-7-inside-out-deluxe-edition-ed-bott/1102784729). Since you live in Ohio, and if you haven’t bought a new computer yet, you might want to take a look at this Ohio computer manufacturer (http://www.avadirect.com) with a very good reputation (http://www.resellerratings.com/store/AVA_Direct).

Reply | Quote

Go with Windows 7-64 bit, unless you are absolutely sure that you need 32-bit. (You very likely don’t.) The only reason you would even want to consider 32-bit is if you have old software or devices which will not run in a 64-bit environment. There are a few such items, but not many. I’d prefer upgrading those devices and software, rather than going with 32-bit Windows.

And make sure that it will allow for at least 6 GB of RAM, but preferably 8. (It doesn’t have to come with that much, but you want to be able to expand in the future.) It needs to come with a minimum of 4 GB of RAM. Anything higher than these numbers is good.

Group "L" (Linux Mint)
with Windows 10 running in a remote session on my file server

Reply | Quote

If you got the HP 3500 desktop with Win 7 Pro and Win 8 disk for later, you got a very good computer, and one of the very few that comes with both and an easy upgrade with the included disk to 8. I used many of those for my customers in the same boat as you find yourself in, and the systems were good quality, fast, and easy to setup. Used them since January 2013 and no issues from any of them.

You likely won’t need the reference book for 7 past having the comfort of it nearby after you get going with 7. If some of your programs will not run on the 64 bit system just keep your old computer with a KVM switch which lets you switch back and forth between two computers using the same keyboard mouse and monitor. So long as you just run the XP programs offline like Photoshop or video editing programs, all you need to do is copy the results to a USB drive or SD card and transfer them over to the new one. Just keep it off your network and the Internet and the XP machine will be safe for as long as it runs. If you don’t have room for two boxes then just take the drive from the old system and use it in an external drive dock that can be had new for under 20 bucks today in USB 2.0. Then you can access all your files from it on the new computer using 7.

Excellent question because many more are in the same situation and don’t want to ask. The very good responses on this thread will help more than just you.

Reply | Quote

I think you’ve just proved my point! I can use my laptop anywhere, with or without an internet connection. As a student, I take it to Uni, libraries and so on, where I cannot rely on wifi. When I travel, I often go interstate or overseas, to places where I have regularly have no wifi connection (even in the US & Canada). Don’t try that with a Chromebook. As for “needs no virus protection”, just give it time until the installed user-base is enough to make it an attractive target for virus writers. The same claim used to be made for Macs, Linux and so on. Only the ignorant make such claims now. Add “Kubuntu, Ubuntu, whatever” and you’ll definitely need AV software.

Cheers,
Paul Edstein
[Fmr MS MVP - Word]

Reply | Quote

I’d like to second the book Windows 7 Inside Out, Deluxe Edition as being a good choice.
Good call, cloudsandskye.

RockE

Image or Clone often! Backup, backup, backup, backup......
- - - - -
Home Built: Windows 10 Home 64-bit, AMD Athlon II X3 435 CPU, 16GB RAM, ASUSTeK M4A89GTD-PRO/USB3 (AM3) motherboard, 512GB SanDisk SSD, 3 TB WD HDD, 1024MB ATI AMD RADEON HD 6450 video, ASUS VE278 (1920x1080) display, ATAPI iHAS224 Optical Drive, integrated Realtek HD Audio

Reply | Quote