Mid-Range Computer Recommendations

A mid-level computer is more powerful than a basic computer, so it is suitable for more demanding work.

Mid-rand computers can better handle graphics-intensive programs and those programs that require the management of a larger database.

Although not a workstation, a mid-range computer can handle all standard business programs with better speed than a basic computer. This is especially true with photo editing or video editing. However, video editing works best with high-end computers.

All games will work on a mid-range computer, however, the more complicated games may run a bit slower than on a high-end computer. Nevertheless, for those new to gaming, the mid-range computer will be fun to operate.

Of course, individual computers may vary in their capabilities and running speed. Also note that a monitor and speakers may or may not come with the computer as a complete package.

While nothing here will have this year's cutting-edge component advancements, with the dramatic rise in component quality and falling costs, mid-level computers are now more powerful and less expensive than ever before. As a rough guide, typical cost of a mid-range computer including a monitor and speakers is about $600 and $900.

Here are our recommendations for a mid-range computer.

Recommendations:

Processor:
TIP - Look for HyperTransport (HT) Technology.
- AMD Athlon™ 64 3000+.
- Intel® Pentium® 4 515, 520, or 521 with HT Technology.
Memory:
256 MB or 512 MB Single Channel DDR PC-3200 SDRAM 400MHz is standard.
Hard Drive:
80 GB at 7200 RPM SATA (Serial ATA) with 2-8 MB Cache is standard.
Video Card:
Tip - An Integrated video card includes sound.
- Integrated Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 900.
- ATI Radeon™ 9550SE 128 MB or ATI Radeon™ 9800 Pro.
- NVidia GeForce FX 5900 Ultra or 6600G with 128MB.
Sound:
Integrated 5.1 Audio with Digital Out.
Motherboard:
TIP - If you're building a computer, make sure the motherboard and the processor (CPU) are compatible!
- MSI K8N NEO4-F with NForce4 Chipset / SATA Raid PCI-E / 1 GB Lan / 2 USB / 7.1Audio.
- Asus A8N-E with NForce4 Ultra Chipset / Raid / 8.1 Audio / 1GB Lan / 10 USB / 2 Firewire.
Monitor:
When a monitor is part of a mid-range computer package (it's not always), it will be either a 15 inch or 17 inch color monitor. For a household computer, a 15 inch monitor is acceptable. But if you intend to do a lot of work on your computer, then we recommend a 17 inch monitor. It's simply easier to work on. Of course, a 19 inch is very nice. If you have the cash, a 19 inch monitor is well worth it.

We recommend you always get a flat screen, which is less stressful on the eyes.

If you are thinking of getting an LCD screen, make sure you are able to adjust the brightness (that ability must be on the video card). If you can't adjust the brightness, get a standard CRT monitor. Some gamers prefer to avoid LCD monitors because of "ghosting."
Optical Drive 1
A CD/DVD-ROM is recommended.
Optical Drive 2
A CD/DVD-RW is recommended.
Modem:
For dial-up: 56 Kbps PCI Data/fax modem. But for serious surfing or a home business, you should get ISDN, DSL, or a cable connection, depending on what is available in your area.
Operating System:
Windows® XP Home with Service Pack 2 and with XP Home Backup CD, or Windows® XP Professional Edition.
Software:
A typical package will usually include Microsoft® Works, Microsoft® Office Standard version or Professional version. We strongly recommend you use an Anti-Virus program and use a Firewall. See Part 5: Software for more information on software programs.
Power Supply:
Often ignored, it is very important to get a good quality power supply.
Power Protection:
Computer hardware is highly sensitive to power surges, voltage spikes, power sags, brownouts, and blackouts! You can easily melt-down your silicon circuitry before you know it. Use a APC Back-UPS or similar unit that is appropriate for your computer. Do not rely on a cheap and often unworking plug-in circuit breakers. Get a UPS unit.