I used to play the build/upgrade game for myself and my clients... then the
systems got so inexpensive that it wasn't worth it..

In "the day", you bought a $2,000 system and upgraded it several times...
Now, you buy a complete system for $600 and give it to the grand kids or someone
when you buy a new one.. not worth the cost of upgrading any more, IMO.

Mac

https://home.comcast.net/~mac.davis
https://home.comcast.net/~mac.davis/wood_stuff.htm

The problem with many of today's pre-built computers is the lack of service.
Unless you plan on doing some heavy hitting (gaming) with that machine, just
about any of the factory brands will do just fine, even the lower cost ones.
I would check into what service they do provide as some will actually charge
you for premium service.  Personally, I build my own and believe it or not,
it is pretty damn easy.  The advantage of doing it that way is you get to
set the strengths and weaknesses yourself and if you use quality name brand
components that have existed for a few months, it should set up easily and
run without problems.  Also building it yourself and setting up the software
does give you some insight when something doesn't work right as to where to
look and you will probably save money as well.  Just something for you to
think about.

When I get my a.s to FL I'm going to need a 'putor for the house. I want to
leave this one here in MA for Sue to use and the time's when I come up. I
don't do a bunch of gaming but I might. I do a lot of reading on the net. I
like a BIG monitor for all the pink bunny pic's. I thought about a laptop
even more when I was trying to figure out the navigation question but have
pretty much settled on a garmin. Thanks to all for your help and info on
that. Anyway a laptop will limit the size of the monitor.

So let's hear what ya think especially you folks in the field. Brand, reason
why and price they go for if ya have the info.
tia

Roy