Condensed Buying Guide for Microsoft® Windows®
Desktop and Laptop Computers

by Allyn Perdue

December 29, 2009

I occasionally receive requests for recommendations for computer purchases. As briefly as possible, I will address those questions here. Note that specific model recommendations are transitory at best so my primary focus will be on system specifications.

Desktop, Laptop or Netbook?

Perhaps the first decision a prospective  computer buyer should make is whether to go with a conventional desktop or to choose a laptop style computer. Conventional desktops are fine for permanent locations and are for the most part standardized so that internal peripheral components such as DVD/CD drives, hard drives, video cards and other adapters are easily interchanged and updated.

Laptops (or notebook computers) offer portability and reduced space requirements. However, laptop components may be difficult to upgrade after purchase due to brand proprietary designs.

Another option is the Ultra Low-Cost PC (ULCPC), a recently developed class of computers which includes the mini-notebook or "netbook", so named because the first models were not suitable for much more than Internet access for email and web-surfing. Today's netbooks are far improved and capable of handling several lightweight applications at once. However, they should not be considered as medium performance computers. Most are truly low-performance mini-laptops designed for simplicity with long battery run-times.

The ULCPC class of computers now includes certain mini-desktop systems ("nettops") marketed with low-power processors from both AMD and Intel. Nettops and netbooks may be offered with Windows XP Home Edition instead of Windows Vista/Windows 7 operating systems.

Hybrid Desktop PCs

This class of PC uses laptop components in a slim desktop enclosure. One type is represented by the Dell Studio Hybrid, a great concept that will get better with the next generation of components. I believe the hybrid combines the best of both worlds and is worth investigating. Space requirements are minimal.

We'll address different types of laptops further below. First, let's talk about computer specs.

Computer Specifications

Once a decision is made whether to go with a desktop or other type, perhaps the most daunting task facing the novice or even the experienced shopper is understanding computer specifications. The three primary performance specifications we need to understand follow in descending order of importance:

1. System RAM (or memory)
2. Processor
3. Hard Disk or Solid State Drive storage capacity

System Memory (RAM)

The most critical specification for a new PC is the amount of available system memory or RAM (for Random Access Memory). Having too little can significantly impair performance. Since RAM is now relatively inexpensive, there is no legitimate reason to cut corners with this critical component.

RAM defined

In computer speak,  RAM (Random Access Memory) is a temporary electronic storage space for rapid data retrieval. It is most often measured and expressed in gigabytes (abbreviated GB). Certain types of RAM such as the processor L2 Cache are still referenced as kilobytes (KB) or megabytes (MB) depending upon quantity and the associated component(s).  

Benefits of more RAM

A computer with plenty of RAM can write and retrieve frequently used data much quicker than a computer with the minimum specification. This means more operating system components and applications can be loaded from the hard drive at start up and that often-used programs load and run faster. Another benefit is that more RAM reduces hard disk drives' workloads and can help extend their lifetime.

Minimum recommended RAM

Officially, Microsoft system requirements specify the minimum RAM for 32-bit versions of Windows 7 to be one gigabyte and two gigabytes for 64-bit versions. These figures, while more realistic than past specifications, are still a bit short for smoothest operation.

The ideal minimum RAM for a new computer running 32-bit versions of Windows 7 should be at least two gigabytes (2 GB). Any less and a full service computer may occasionally exhibit sluggishness.

Minimum RAM for Windows XP

Purchasers of netbooks or nettops with Windows XP can get by with only one gigabyte RAM. However, two gigabytes are recommended in the event of future operating system upgrade.

Minimum RAM for Windows 7 64-bit versions

For best results with 64-bit operating systems (Windows Vista 64-bit or Windows 7 64-bit), shoppers should opt for 4 GB RAM which is generally the sweet spot for best overall operation. Flight simmers, fast-action gamers and those doing video editing and encoding may benefit from 6 to 8 GB or more.

Maximum RAM limitations of 32-bit Operating Systems

Due to technology limits, 32-bit operating systems cannot access more than 3.5 GB of system RAM, less in some configurations. This boundary is a limitation of the original Intel x86 series processor specification and of all 32-bit versions of Windows.

System Memory vs. Hard Disk Drive

Please do not confuse System Memory with the storage capacity of hard disk drives (HDD) or new technology solid state drives (SSD). Such drives are the third component from above and are used for permanent data storage. They will be discussed shortly.

Microprocessor or CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The microprocessor is a marvel of miniature technology made essentially of baked sand and microfine wires. The two largest manufacturers of PC microprocessors are Intel Corporation and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) with Intel being the dominant marketing force.

Intel Corporation

Since 2007, Intel has made great strides with their Core Microarchitecture. Most recently, the new Intel Core i7 and Core i5 series have taken the top prize in performance and efficiency. Presently, AMD does not have a processor that performs equivalent to the Intel Core i7 or Core i5 series.

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)

Don't let AMD's number two position diminish their capability; AMD is responsible for significant improvements and standards in modern PCs. Their AMD64 specification is the cornerstone of today's 64-bit personal computing and AMD were the first to have a truly outstanding and efficient multi-core processor.

Benefit of competition

AMD's breakthrough technology from 2003 through 2006 proved to be the death knell of the hot-running and energy wasting Intel Pentium 4 and dual-core Pentium D processor families. Intel rebounded with the superb Core 2 and Core i series of processors to reclaim the PC market and performance crown from AMD. Truthfully, the competition has kept both companies working to stay ahead of each other while providing consumers with good choices as well as low prices.

Processor Performance, Clock Speed and Cache

Processor performance traditionally has been measured in terms of internal clock speed of millions or billions of operations per second. Today, clock speed has to be considered in context of design plus certain processor components such as high-speed on-chip RAM known as cache. There are three on-chip cache levels, L1, L2 and L3. L1 is reserved for essential processor data and commands while L2 and L3 are used for frequently accessed data mirrored in main system memory. Not all processors have an onboard L3 Cache.

Processors with less cache must access slower system memory (RAM) for frequently used data. The resulting delay means such processors will not perform as well as models with more on-chip cache.

Often, the only significant difference between processor families is the amount of enabled on-chip cache memory. For example, the Intel Pentium Dual Core has double the L2 Cache of the Intel Celeron dual core. The Intel Core 2 Duo has 150% to 200% of the L2 Cache of the Pentium Dual Core. Top-end processors such as the Intel Core i7 series have very large amounts of L2 and L3 Cache for maximum performance.

Single or Multi-Core?

Most of us should at the very minimum choose a dual core processor for desktop PCs. Desktop systems are usually purchased with a particular performance level in mind and should not be unnecessarily hobbled by a single core CPU. Netbooks are designed with low power consumption and long battery life and are best served with Intel Atom processors. Nettops are well-suited for the Intel Atom family or low-power AMD Athlon 2650e.

The problem with single-core can be summed in two words: The Internet. If we did not have to connect to the Internet, single-core CPUs would do well for most of us. The ugly side of the Internet is that a substantial amount of what is exchanged is contaminated from a cesspool of malware-infected websites and deceptive emails. To navigate that "cesspool", we must load our computers with layers of protection. It is primarily this protection that bogs down single-core processors. Other factors include resource hogging applications such as certain printer and scanner suites,  and America Online Software.

Bottom Line: Choose at least a Dual Core CPU for desktop PCs

To use an example of pop lexicon, single core processors are so yesterday. Buying a single core processor for a desktop system when a dual core processor can be had for only a few dollars more makes no sense.

Dual Core Processors and their benefits

Dual-core models are ideal for most users including certain enthusiasts. Low end models are generally fast enough for basic to intermediate needs including occasional image manipulation and typical multimedia operations such as creating CDs and most anything fun. High end models are fine for fast action games.

Dual core CPUs are the best value for most Sun City residents. With a dual core processor, applications run smoother, background antivirus scans are not noticeable, printer suites work better and do not interfere with regular operations. Background virus scanning can be done without interrupting productive work such as reading and writing email, creating documents, running Quicken or TurboTax, researching an investment, online banking and running Windows Update.

Triple Core Processors

Triple core CPUs are an AMD exclusive. Newer 45 nanometer models such as the Phenom II X3 are competitively priced and perform quite well. They are good choices for audio and home video editing.

Quad Core Processors

Quad core CPUs are ideal for video editing and for high end photo work. They are also the best for the latest generation of fast action and dense scenery games.

AMD Quad Core Processors

AMD manufactures very good to excellent models at affordable prices. Their Athlon II X4 620 is less than $100 at retail though it may be effectively more expensive from Dell, Gateway and HP due to OEM end-user pricing.

The Phenom II X4 965BE is an excellent $195.00 (or less) processor from AMD that can be easily and safely overclocked for maximum performance. Even at default settings, it's a solid alternative to Intel Core 2 Quad processors and is a good choice up against the Intel Core i5-750.

Intel Quad Core Processors

Intel Corporation is the heavyweight in high-end processors. The Intel Core i7-nnn series rules the top-end market and are priced accordingly. Presently, the best for the money is the Core i7-860 and for those who don't want to upgrade their processor later, it is the top value in the upper mainstream market. Those who are interested in upgrading later to a better CPU should choose a system with an Intel Core i7-920. The difference is the associated chipset; presently Intel has limited upgrade capability for the chipset required for the Core i7-800 series.

At a lower price point is the Core i5-750, another excellent performer that can be upgraded later to an i7-800 series CPU.

Six-Core Processors

Intel and AMD will have six core consumer models arriving in early 2010. They will be expensive initially and aimed at those with significant discretionary funds. 

Desktop Processors Summary and Recommendations

Minimum Recommendation - Intel Celeron E3200 Dual Core Processor

There is no need for the typical non-technical Sun City PC user to read much more about processors. If you are looking for a desktop system that will do what most people use a computer for, all one needs is an Intel Celeron Dual Core E3200 or the slightly more expensive Intel Pentium Dual Core E5300. Based upon the same cool-running 45 nanometer technology "Wolfdale" core as the Pentium Dual Core E5000 series but with only one megabyte L2 Cache (versus 2 MB L2 Cache in the Pentium processor), the Celeron Dual Core E3000 series will do most anything the typical computer user requires.

That's not to say not to buy something faster and more expensive. But most of us don't really need it. For the increasing numbers in the U.S. who are tightening their budgets, buying a computer with an Intel Celeron Dual Core E3200 or a Pentium Dual Core model makes a lot of sense; these processors give a lot for relatively little money. After much research, I ordered an E3200 for my new Windows 7 non-gaming system build for only $50.00 with free shipping. I expect the Celeron E3200 to prove itself an excellent value.

Minimum Recommendation - AMD Athlon X2 5000+ or Athlon II X2 215

This is the minimum AMD desktop processor I recommend. A good alternative to the Intel Celeron E3200, the newest Athlon X2 5000+ is dual core and manufactured with the latest 45 nanometer technology. Another similar model is the Athlon II X2 215 with similar performance. The difference between the two is motherboard/CPU socket compatibility. All work well with Windows 7.

Special Consideration - AMD Athlon X2 3250e

The AMD Athlon X2 3250e is a reduced power OEM processor designed for all-in-one PCs where thermal performance is critical. It features a lower internal clock speed and lower voltage with a reduction in overall performance. Fortunately, it works minimally well with Windows 7 if care is taken when choosing security software.

Desktop Single Core Processors to avoid:

Intel Celeron 420, 430, 440, 450
AMD Sempron LE series
AMD Athlon LE series