What Would The Best Computer For IM Have?

I don't think you need the BEST hardware to make IM work... I'm using a 3 and a half years old acer laptop and I'm doing pretty good.

And if you're not into gaming, you don't need a super graphics card...

Cut the expenses on your hardware and invest them in good hosting, autoresponder and ads...

Honestly, IM isn't very resource intensive for computers - I'm running everything on a 2 year old laptop (2.0 ghz, 2 gb RAM, 240 gb harddrie) and I've never had a problem. I use Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Camtasia and a bunch of other 3rd party software programs - sometimes multiple programs at once - without running into any issues.

Basically, you really don't need to spend a lot of money on a computer for IM purposes (check out Dell's outlet for scratched models for even bigger savings). There's a ton of other places you'll want to spend your money on, so save it up for those

I started in IM with one of the worst computers possible lol. Just need a word processor and some harddrive space really.

But I have recently upgraded to make sure I can do everything I want just in case. There is no need to go top of the line. Depending on what you do in IM, you are going to want a computer that can handle video editing, sound production, and document creation. Everything else just requires a simple internet connection. YOu might want a large hard drive from all the video space.

Other then that though, you don't need anything special.

Thanks guys, but I don't see the cost here as an issue. There is a lot of value in having a base that is solid b/c you will get benefits from it everyday. For example, a machine that runs fast allows you to get more done in a day.

I am just trying to figure out what I should be looking for in terms of specific hardware numbers and what types of desktops b/c I know that the technology has changed the last time I went computer shopping.

Just buy a simple computer, forget the fancy stuff. If it enables you to work and make money online then I am sure you will not be complaining.

Petela,

Based on what you said in your post, what hard numbers would a computer need to accomplish those things you think are important?

The best computer for an IM'er would have a long battery. That's it. You don't need horsepower, you need mobility. If you don't have to work at a desk anymore, just don't do it. Get out and see the world. Work in the sun even if it's from your own patio.

I think a gamers desktop is overkill. Here's an option though that you might be interested in: Multiple LCD's. Two or even three screens would really help with multitasking. Specially if you're one of those who always have multiple browsers and programs running all at the same time. You would probably need a decent graphics card for that.

My computer has a 2.4Ghz Intel CPU, 2.5Gb RAM. I'm running the computer without chipset cooling, basically the cooler fall off and it's impossible to replace it (because motherboard is somewhat damange). Beside that the comp has 4 fan, 2 sucking air into the cabinet, 2 sucking air out of the cabinet. That computer is I guess 6 years old but still uses it daily for IM and some gaming (novalogic joint operations)

If you like to get involved in the creative side of Internet Marketing (i.e - designing your own products, websites, etc and making your stuff look cool) then I would look at a Mac.

I have used a Mac for nearly 10 years now - and I just love 'em!

I also recommend Adobe Creative Suite...
This includes Photoshop for designing your website graphics, etc
Indesign which is what I use for creating really cool magazine lay-outs and awesome looking ebooks
Dreamweaver for really cool websites (you get a load of FREE templates to use - just copy and past your text into them and you have a great, Professional-looking website!)

Premiere Pro and Keynote are really cool programmes too for creating and editing videos...

It really all depends on your budget. I used to build all of my own computer custom to save money, but that really isn't possible now days.

Here is what I would recommend.

Go to your local Best Buy (they don't work on commission, so they usually don't try to sell you the world). I would recommend either an HP (first choice) or Dell Desktop system. The number 1 thing you should do is buy an extended warranty. Trust me, just do it.

Stay away from anything with a Celeron processor. Also, Windows 7 is really a huge upgrade and from my testing works really well. I would also recommend at least 6 gigabytes of RAM which it's almost impossible to find a new machine with less than 6. I would say your looking at around 5 - 7 hundred dollars brand new.

If it's in your budget, you could get a setup that has multiple LCD's as Francis5235 suggested. It really does help for multitasking.

If this is too much for your budget, you could try a refurbished computer from TigerDirect.com - Computers, Computer Parts, Computer Components, Netbooks & Electronics. They have great deals and offer warranties on their refurbished EQ.

Hope this helps.

Didn't read all the posts but...

it will depend heavily on the software you are using and what your workload requirements are and if you are patient (or can't stand waiting).

Priorities should be:

1. Fast and Reliable Internet Connection (3MB or faster download)

2. A decent computer 2 GHz or faster CPU with a minimum of 1 GB of ram. It is preferrable to have one with 2 GB or more of ram. The OS should be Windows XP SP3 or later.

3. Resource intensive programs like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Premier, Acrobat, etc.) will require more Ram, because you could be using more than one program at the same time. This is where a dual core processor with at least 2 GB of ram will come in handy. Storage is not important, because you can go out and get external hard drives to store files on.

To give you an idea... I use Adobe Creative Suite, Market Samurai, cPanel hosting etc. in my IM efforts. I also use skype and various other Instant Messengers.

My PC is a Dell Dimension 4400 with P4 3.0 Ghz HyperThreading (software simulated version of dual core... true dual core is at the hardware level) with 2 GB of Ram and a 200 GB mirrored hard drive.

This does more than enough for my needs. Oh and my internet is 12MB down and 768kb up... which I wish was faster, but only because I upload and download websites all the time.

Dennis

the most important thing for my perfect IM parketing "computer" is that it will have an apple on the back

You should not worried about capacity, Ram or microprocessor speed. Even the most basic computer you can buy today will work ok.
What is more important is that you will be working a lot of hours with your computer, so you should look for a computer with a good ergonomic design (I´m talking about the mouse and the keyboard), and even more important, the monitor. You want to reduce eyes strain. What is better here is a large monitor with the highest resolution.

Basically, you don't need a high computer for your current usage,
but generally I recommend you to buy above your need, in order to last long.
I am a computer technical, and I can confirm positively that (uploading files, downloading files, fast navigation) and all other internet stuff, doesn't need high hardware stuff. because these stuff are not resources consuming.
If you are willing to play games or doing graphic and animation stuff, you will need to rise up the hardware (CPU-Ram-VGA)

Actually I am using:
CPU: AMD X4 Phenom II 940
Ram: 4 GB
VGA: ATI 3600

and it gives me the high performace for every stuff I use. including games and graphics

Always make sure you get a CUSTOM build. You save 30-40% that way. Also make sure you have LOTS of RAM and a decent processor. A big hard-drive is also very beneficial.

... and of course, a big LCD screen!

Any questions just let me know

Nick

Dont go for anything less than 4GB of RAM these days.

lenovo.com

They have a whole range down to the cheap ones, but at the business user level you can pick out most of your options. Even the basic choices are pretty high end to begin with.

Mostly they don't even advertise to the individual consumer. They supply gov and big business, but you can go their site and put in an individual order. (The corporate section was for orders over $100,000 last time I looked.)

Just clicking around there is an education.

Whenever i'm about to build a new pc for a customer I always ask the same questions:

What are you going to be doing with it? Be specific in the programs you'll be using, especially if you're running several at once.

Do you need everything? Keyboard, mouse, monitor. or do you have that already and just need the tower?

How much harddrive space do you need? Do you download lots of large files?

Finally, what's your budget? I will build a custom system based on exactly their budget including tax. I've never build the same system twice. I always use quality components. I actually spend a few hours researching compatability and prices to get the most bang for the buck.

JDSalinger, you'll be doing alot of multimedia stuff so a core I5 or I7 is definately the way to go. I'm not partial to AMD or Intel but it from my experience its always worked best as multimedia programs=Intel, gaming=AMD.
Ram, absolutely no less then 8GB if your building a tower system, no less then 4GB for laptops. It at least should be DDR3 1333mhz.
Harddrives, this is always a catch22. speed or storage. I have found the best medium is two harddrives in RAID-0 plus a 1terabyte drive for storage and backup. People say stuff about RAID-0 but i don't have any customer complaints either. Solid State drives are waaay to pricey still to even consider.
Windows7 64bit. Thats it. That's all. Don't even argue with me about it. I've had skeptics turn to believers.

Have fun and enjoy your new comp! I love the smell of new hardware in the morning.

Hi JD,

I would suggest defining the things that are lacking in your past computer. Do you want it to have a larger memory? A faster downloading speed? Now once you have those down, you can go to the computer sellers and ask them about it. No need to go to the extent of buying super fast gaming computers. Better invest your money on softwares instead.

Good luck on treating yourself to a new computer!

Aira

iMac 27" : Apple - iMac - All-in-one desktop design.

You are located in the USA...

so I am going to suggest you just go to Walmart and pick up the Dell with Pentium processor in it. Can't remember the specific model. My brother in law just bought one and it is super fast and will handle anything you can throw at it.

I believe the specs are:

OS: Windows 7 Home Premium
CPU: Don't remember but it is fast and a true dual core processor 3 GHz I think.
RAM: 4 GB (More than enough)
Display: 22 inch widescreen flat panel (very nice)
HDD: 640 GB I believe
Video: Don't know but to do the aerio on Windows 7 it has to be good or at least more than you'll ever need.

PRICE: $500-$600

ADD ONS: Get a second identically sized monitor if you have the space for it. You won't regret this. I use dual displays and it makes working on sites so much easier.

Also get a portable hard drive so you can back up your files on a regular basis. I had a ton of samples of ecover designs I lost when I had a hard drive crash on my old system. Backups are critically important. The backup program on Windows 7 is more than sufficient so no additional software will be required.

Here is a similar model with AMD chipset which may be slightly better but also slightly more expensive.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Dell-1-TB-...78PBK/13316869

That is not an affiliate link.

Dennis

Screw going with a piece of crap ancient computer. This is the best computer for "ANY THING" Its only 3 grand! Very reasonable!

OP wanted a PC for IM not hard core gaming.

Also... could you be so kind as to downsize the image a bit. [thanks rus]

Dennis

I've found it!

Oh lord. Now here come the jokes. Pick something that at least runs TRSDOS.

Make a decision... found the best 2 models on the planet. Not cutting edge... but bleeding edge and state of the art.



The best one of all...



Dennis

I would definitely recommend getting something that supports having two monitors. It's really useful for having information up on one monitor for research and the other one to write content/articles on!

Do they come with built-in ATM machines?
Would make for an awesome feature....

Just saying...

I would have to disagree, in my professional opinion.

I have had Dells since 2000. Never had a single problem out of any of them. I have owned 3 desktops and 1 laptop.

My suggestion is to stay away from eMachines and Gateways.

The only alternative to Dell is the HP Business Desktops.

In any case, the manufacturer is not near as important as the warranty. Buy a cheapo system, you better buy the extended warranty. Of course warranty only covers parts replacement it doesn't protect data, so you better make regular backups to prevent data loss.

I love my Mac OS X Desk Top. It can't be beat when it comes to speed and multi-media. You can add a program like Fusion for Mac to run any PC programs you like.

When I am taking courses that are shown on a PC, I have to translate what they are teaching to how I can do that on my Mac. In other words how to simplify what they are teaching.

What's under my belt? I've got a macbook but the problem with macs is that a lot of softwares critical to IM are not built for mac. So I have a virtual XP on my mac and I switch between them at will whenever I need to. I converted from a windows to a MAC and I gotta say I love it. I would say I have "the best of both worlds"

If I wanted to spend the money... I would own an Android Phone, an iPad, a MAC, and a PC.

iPad's may put an end to the ebook reader race.