Question about Gateway computers

[Pam]

I have always used Macs - and will continue to do so. I am in the publishing business and need one.

But - I have just received word from my shipper that due to changes in their software - I need to purchase a PC for the software to work. I want something inexpensive, as I will just be utilizing the new PC for shipping purposes. I was looking at Gateway - anyone have any experiences they would like to share?
Thanks,
Pam

[helenabear]

Pam, I have three words for you: Don't buy one! While Gateways have gotten better over the years, they still are not a brand I could recommend at all. I used to do tech support at a university for students ( a huge range of computers) and the two I alwys had the most trouble with her e-machines & Gateways. I have even spoken with Gateway tech support and I swear they were not too terribly bright all the times I had spoken with them.

I currently have an IBM, I like Dell, but my next one I get if it isn't a laptop would be a self-build. If you are looking for a brand name machine though, I'd go with Dell.

[Pam]

Thanks, Elaine.

But the Gateway commercials are so cute!
Pam

[browneyes]

Pam, everyone I know that have one has had a major problem with their computer. I'd suggest NOT buying Gateway, HP or Compaq (HP and Compaq are the same company, btw). I've heard the E-machines aren't worth having either. I don't like Macs either. I guess they're reliable, I just don't like how they're set up.

Dell and IBM both are good computers.

I guess I agree with Helenabear.:)

[Tina]

I love my Sony Vaio that I bought last year at Best Buy. I recommend checking out the "Day After Thanksgiving" deals at your local stores. I got a great computer for about $500 less than the normal price. Just be sure NOT to buy the Best Buy warranty (for more info visit www.bestbuysux.org). With holiday shopping deals right around the corner, you're in a great position to get a good deal.

[EROS]

BUY DELL:D :D :D ......

[helenabear]

Originally posted by Pam
Thanks, Elaine.

But the Gateway commercials are so cute!
Pam
If you want "cute" go look at pics of Luis ;) Hey I'll even send you a pic of him for you to use as a background :teeth:

Yes they are cute commercials, and I truly hate "Dude, get a Dell" commercials, but I gotta go with which is better :)

[Pam]

Elaine,
But Luis already sent me his photo to use as wallpaper..... OOPS! I wasn't supposed to say that, huh??!!;)

I like the Dell Dude commercials, too.

Tina, I will have to check out the Christmas specials, thanks for the tip!

EROS,
What brand of Dell do you have?

Thanks, everybody!
Pam

[Lynn CC]

I have 3 Gateways, we just bought another. I use them for personal and Business.

I love their customer support and haven't had any trouble at all!

I wouldn't hesitate to buy a Gateway. My BIL bought 2 Dells. One for personal use and one for business. He says next time he's buying a Gateway.

[Dan Murphy]

Have had my Dell for 2 years, no problems of consequence, would buy another.

[DVC-Don]

I've had Gateway and Dell. I've had problems with both, but both times Customer Service took care of it. Right now I have a Dell, but only because it was $200 cheaper than a Gateway at the time.

(at work we have a mix of IBM and HP, that's another story)

[Pam]

Thanks everyone for all the advice/experiences!

I will have to sit down with DH and weed through all this info!
Pam

[Toby'sFriend]

If you are only going to be using the machine to run one application - I'd look into buying something that is slightly used and refurbished.

Dell has a special place on their website for refurbished machines.
I don't know about Gateway.

[Princess_Aurora]

I personally have never had a Gateway, but the people I know that have had them have had some pretty serious problems with them. The parts they use are usally pretty cheap and break a lot. I would say Dell is the best and they usually have some GREAT specials on their webpage.