Need help purchasing computer for relative

[TinkTock]

I'm going to visit an older relative on the other side of the country in a few months for a couple days. My family has asked me to get her a new computer and set it up for her when I'm there. She's using an ancient Window XP computer now, so I'd like to stick with a Windows machine, hopefully with an older operating system if possible (though I'm guessing I can't buy with XP at this point).

I'm going to gather some more information about how she's using her computer now to decide whether to get a laptop or a desktop machine. I think that either way, the easiest thing to do will be to order it online to be delivered to her house before I get there. However, if I have a problem with it, that will make a return very difficult. If I wait until I get there, I may have a hard time finding something for a decent price on the shelves, though it would help with a possible return. Any thoughts or insight? What would you do? I would like to keep the price as low as is reasonable, while still letting me get her what she needs.

 

[seashoreCM]

If you want to keep using Windows XP, I might ask, why bother getting a new computer.

Or is the old computer starting to develop visible or tangible problems?

XP computers can still be equipped with larger auxiliary disk drives if you outgrow the drive that is in it. The existing drive can be left in place and no extensive software changes or re-installations done.

 

[JCW]

Are you are Costco member? or any wholesale club? I know if you order from Costco online you can return to the store. So if you are a member and there is a location near where your relative lives, this gives you options. And, they have great prices.

 

[riley2008]

I'd try Best Buy, if there is one close. Also, since your family member is using Windows XP, I'd suggest an upgrade to Windows 7 and stay away from Windows 8.

(IMO Windows 7 is close to functionality as XP, but Windows 8 requires a large learning curve. Also, On-line support for XP ends April 1, 2013, I think. In other words, you won't be able to call in for tech support if needed. Why buy something that is already outdated?)

Our family desktop went out 2 weeks ago and we had Windows Vista. Our laptops all have XP or Windows 7. Trying to decide what to do for the "main" household computer - laptop, all in one (like the idea of no tower, but don't like the idea of having to replace everything if one part oges out), or a tower (and then how big?).

I'm thinking for us, a Gateway desktop with Windows 8 from Best Buy with extended service plan - I'll need help navigating that for a while.

 

[Mrs.Malone]

Windows 8 is all you will find in the stores.
It has a huge learning curve that
will cause your relative to need
extensive technical support unless they
are very good with computers. If your relative is like
my XP using relatives, they have their
computer set up exactly how they like it, in
a way that is easy and familar to them, and it
would be hard for them to make a big change. I suggest
going to Best Buy online or
another reputable online retailer that takes returns and buying
a refurbished computer with Windows 7. 7 is
similar enough to XP and should still have good
functionality for a long time.

 

[BunsenH]

If you want to keep using Windows XP, I might ask, why bother getting a new computer.

Or is the old computer starting to develop visible or tangible problems?

XP computers can still be equipped with larger auxiliary disk drives if you outgrow the drive that is in it. The existing drive can be left in place and no extensive software changes or re-installations done.

Depending on what your relative uses the computer for, I agree with this suggestion. If you are familiar with computers, you might be able to give the existing one a tune up. Some possible areas to check:

Windows XP updates
Clean up clutter on hard disk
Add RAM
Add hard drive
Update Internet explorer
Update email client (Outlook Express to Windows Live)

Post an update from "out there" when you assess the situation.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

A laptop might be good to have if she develops mobility issues.

 

[TommyTutone]

I think Dell, HP, and a few other online sites have Windows 7 as options for some of their machines still, and definitely recommend that over Win 8.

have you considered an iPad? What exactly will be the purpose of the machine overall? An iPad would be a great way to have all of the common functionality (mail, internet) in one portable place that she can do from bed or the couch or wherever.

 

[ariel71]

I think Dell, HP, and a few other online sites have Windows 7 as options for some of their machines still, and definitely recommend that over Win 8.

have you considered an iPad? What exactly will be the purpose of the machine overall? An iPad would be a great way to have all of the common functionality (mail, internet) in one portable place that she can do from bed or the couch or wherever.

I actually just got a Win8 laptop/tablet convertible a few months ago and really like it. It took me about 2 days to get used to the OS/environment/touch screen. My job is 100% computer-based though, so I may be able to navigate a new system better than the OP's relative.

I agree with the iPad suggestion if it meets her usage needs (or any tablet in theory). My father is computer-savvy and has no problem using my parents' desktop, but at age 70 he really likes being able to sit in "his chair" with his iPad and browse the interwebs, read ebooks, check email, play music, etc.

 

[cvjw]

My DH just did the same for his 80 year old dad. He bought a new laptop that had Windows 8 installed - it was returned to the store pretty quickly. Windows 8 is not for an older person who doesn't understand computers that much. FYI - we are in Atlanta, and have the store Microcenter. They bought all of the extra computers from other resellers that still had Windows 7 installed. They are betting that lots of people will not like Windows 8, and will have plenty of computers that still are equipped with Windows 7.

 

[rock_doctor]

I would find out why she needs a new computer. It may be just having fits or is slow and a simple reinstall of XP may do the trick... Win 8 is ok. If you install a free program called "Classic Shell" that adds the start button back in and it works like win 7 except that the windows update and MS antivirus are only accessible in the control panel window. And...to close a program that opens in Metro or Surface or what ever it is called (no X in the upper right) you have to move the mouse to the top of the window. You get a hand as your curser, click and the hand grabs the top of the window. Then drag the window down and it closes... Weird design... Another word of warning...no blue ray playing software in Win 8.

 

[fab5friend99]

I just bought windows 7 laptop from the dell outlet because I knew I would need a new one soon and I didn't want windows 8 at this time. Heck, I'm still using XP at work! It was a "scratch and dent". There was one little mark that you almost need a magnifying glass to see. I didn't care what it looked like as long as it worked. It has the same warranty as a brand new one.