Buying a new Computer
Whenever I am asked about buying a new computer, I usually end up making the same recommendations.
Brands
As far as brands are concerned, I am an unabashed proponent of Dell. I am writing this, however, on a Toshiba laptop, and I would recommend it. I am NOT a fan of HP, Compaq, or Gateway. My complaints with them, and to be fair, this extends a little bit to Dell also, is the overwhelming use of proprietary hardware and software. Proprietary anything makes me mad, because it limits upgradeability and repair options.
My personal pick for my own desktop computers is to build them myself. This is a bit more expensive because I can't get parts at the costs that the OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) can, but all the parts I use are name brand, and upgradeable. I also can buy a copy of Windows. The discs that come with a pre-built machine are only good for that machine, and/or they contain all the CRAP that the manufacturers want you to have. More on that later...
Buy Smart!
The key to buying a good machine that will serve you well for several years, is to buy as much as you can possibly afford. DON'T SKIMP! The computer on sale at the corner super-mart for $399.00 will not provide you with happy computing times. I spend most of my repair time with machines that people bought at amazing sale prices. YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! I just said at the top of the page that I was a fan of Dell. This does not mean, however, that I would buy just any Dell, and not from a discount super store. Dell sells mainly online, with some sales in stores. I would buy from Dell only online.