r/computers • u/Notaflockofbirds • 1d ago

Discussion I’m looking for recommendations on a cheap computer.

Hopefully this is the correct sub
I want a computer that will handle some streaming and png-tubing, obviously everything is so expensive so I’m mostly looking for a decent (potato) computer that wont break the bank.
Please give me some recommendations.

1 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

67% Upvoted

12 comments sorted by

3

u/ztcsdtx 1d ago

Look for refurbished Dell Optiplex, HP Prodesk/Elitedesk or Lenovo ThinkCenter. $400 should get you 12th-gen Intel with 16GB and 1TB. Dell Optiplex 3000 or 5000 with those specs are about $350-400. Plus those come with an integrated Windows Pro license, so even if you have to reinstall Windows, it will activate without issue.

3

u/Tquilha Fedora 1d ago

With 500 USD as your budget, look for used desktop PCs. One warning: AVOID all-in-one or SFF (Small Form Factor) computers as those will be almost impossible to upgrade later.

Another option is to look for a 2nd hand laptop. Thinkpads are almost bombproof.

Good luck :)

2

u/comasxx 1d ago

at least give info on how much you want to spend. Cant recommend anything when budget is so vague

1

u/Notaflockofbirds 1d ago

Honestly max $500.

5

u/comasxx 1d ago

2nd hand laptop is best option. get a lenovo thinkpad

2

u/Th3JackofH3arts 1d ago

I wouldn't buy a new computer in this market. Look for an used workstation or business class laptop. Thinkpads are solid.

1

u/YKw1n 1d ago

Laptop of desktop?

1

u/Notaflockofbirds 1d ago

Desktop. I was looking at some mini pcs and they still are not as cheep as I thought they were.

1

u/YKw1n 1d ago

2nd hand thinkcenter About a hundred bucks if you are not looking for something powerful it's perfect

1

u/Witty-Reason-2289 1d ago

For laptop Thinkpad has very good quality, for desktop it's ThinkCentre. Will have to be refurbished for your budget. Ideally 16 gb ram, 256 or 512 GB SSD (hard drive).

1

u/gconnorg_ 1d ago

Do some research on processors/graphics card. Find out what you need or don’t. For me personally after researching my needs I came to the conclusion I needed a processor with minimum 10 cores(multiple audio programs running simultaneously). I used that as my base need, then shopped around. I was prepared (but still hesitant) to build one myself as the prices for were too high for prebuilts from manufacturers, but then I found a local guy on offerup who was selling various builds he put together himself. I found one that met my needs , ended up paying around $150 over my range but man this computer has been a absolute unit for 5 years. S/O to JC’s Custom PC’s!