Adampff wrote:You actually want the second one I listed if you might upgrade. The slim model would not be upgradeable (probably) and would be difficult even if you could. The second, with a real ATX case should be easy to upgrade, especially the RAM and GPU.superjawes wrote:Here's the thing about $400 (and cheaper) PCs...if you're building your own, it might actually be cheaper to get one from HP or Dell (and you get tech support).
The issue is that you have to slap an extra $100 on top of whatever you're building in order to get Windows. This one from HP should play Diablo, has Windows, and is a slim form. It's right at that $400 mark, but it should illustrate my point. That's a system built, small, and loaded with Windows.
Regardless, take a peek at the latest TR System Guide. The editor's here explain why they chose particular components for a build, and if you read the comments, some Gerbils actually had the conversation about getting a sub-Econobox build.
I see your point and to be honest forgot that I would have to add windows to any PC that I bought. However the HP you showed me does look nice and fits my needs, I would like something that, if need be, can be upgraded further down the line so I don't end up in my current situation.
I didn't realize it was a laptop, so you really wouldn't be able to scrap anything anyway other than the hard drive. That's okay, though.Unfortunately my Pavilion is not an option to scrap as I still need it for school, etc. Also as to what I mean with the word "adequately" is to be able to play Diablo 3 at 60 fps at least.
As for getting 60 FPS, is that at high settings? What resolution? More pixels means lower FPS for a given GPU. Sinking more money on a more powerful one will allow those prettier textures, and it would handle future games better.
cynan wrote:Our licenses were $15... That was pro XP and 7, and I think ultimates were $30.DPete27 wrote:
[edit] Forgot about a Windows licence. If you're a college student or know one, most colleges offer Windows 7 for like $30. Maybe you can make a $30 exception to your budget?
Not any more that I know of. The university I'm affiliated with offers Win 7 for $99. The best price for students was back when MS offered the Ultimate Steal promotions (Which was $30 for students in the US), but those haven't been running for a while.
You HAVE to be a student for it to be legal, though. Just like OEM licenses are supposed to be for one system, home use licenses are supposed to be for students/employees only, which is why you are limited to a number of licenses and they tie it to your name. Students can check universities, employees can check employee purchase/home use programs. Bigger companies tend to have more perks since they have to more negotiating power.