Quote:Lots of good info here. I really appreciate everyone's input

 

Good luck with whatever route you choose to take.  Based on what your needs are, here are the key things to look for.

 

Surfing the internet, pictures, music, etc. - Pretty much any modern computer will do this without any problem.

 

Streaming videos - Here is where you might concentrate a bit more on specifications.

• I would make sure that the computer has at a minimum a quad core processor (pretty much standard on most machines today).
  
• More RAM (memory) is always better, and I would look for a machine with a minimum of 8GB of RAM or the capability to upgrade to at least this much.
  
• Nothing less than a GB network card.  This is often expressed as 10/100/1000 or something similar.  The important part is the 1000.
  
• Get a machine with a dedicated video card.  Stay away from the "on-board" video types.  As with RAM, more is better to get better quality video.  I personally like Nvidia cards (sometimes called GeForce).  Most any modern card should be sufficient.  You want DVI output at least, and HDMI is better.
  
• As far as Operating System, stay away from Windows 8 variants if possible.  If you must use Windows, try to get a machine with Windows 7 or the option to install it.  Trust me, this will make your computing life much better.  I don't have a whole lot of experience with Apple computers, so I can't make a recommendation here.  If you choose Linux, then I can offer much more advice.  IMPORTANT!  Make sure that you get a 64 bit Operating System whichever you choose.
  
• Storage - Get one with at least a 1TB hard drive.  This is what is going to hold and store all of your pictures, music, videos, etc.  More here is usually better since music, HD pictures and video use up a lot of space.
  

With those basic specifications you should get a machine that serves your needs and makes you happy.

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