If you need maximum computing power for gaming or video editing, here are the specs you need to keep in mind when PC shopping.

PROCESSOR

Power users need the best, and that means quad-core. AMD's Phenom line and Intel's Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Extreme, and newest Core i7 families of processors offer four-core solutions that will give you maximum power and the best possible protection from technology extinction. Want even more juice? Look for a processor that the manufacturer has overclocked (pushed to a higher speed rate), or one with an unlocked multiplier so you can tweak it to your own specifications. You might need to pay more attention to cooling with overclocked CPUs, but the speed bump you get might be worth it.

MEMORY

Don't consider anything less than 2GB—it's the bare minimum you need for a good experience in Vista. Also check to see whether your machine uses DDR2 or newer DDR3 RAM. The latter, which is used exclusively with Intel's new Core i7 family of processors, can operate at faster speeds but is also more expensive, and you can't use DDR2 RAM in DDR3 sockets, which might cause problems if you want to upgrade later. Also pay attention to RAM speeds, measured in megahertz (MHz): The higher the rated speed, the better the RAM will perform—assuming your motherboard supports the speed.

GRAPHICS

It took the gaming industry a while to catch up to the DirectX 10 (DX10) train, and now that it has, most of the biggest titles use it. Since DX10 is more demanding (and visually impressive) than its predecessor, DX9, you'll want the most powerful card you can afford—look for one with at least 512MB of graphics memory, and get more if you can swing it. If you have deep pockets, go for a multiple-card setup using nVidia's Scalable Link Interface (SLI) or ATI's CrossFire technology—depending on your hardware, you can use up to four graphics cards in each setup for the maximum in image-crunching potential.

HARD DRIVE

The faster a drive's rotational speed, the better your system will respond, and the quicker your applications and games will start. Though 15,000rpm drives are available, they're noisy and cost-prohibitive—stick with a 10,000rpm drive for your OS and programs. Complement that with a second drive of 200GB or larger for bulk storage.

OPTICAL DRIVES

Two DVD±RW drives is overkill—go with one DVD burner and a DVD-ROM drive, and you should be all set. High-capacity Blu-ray drives are becoming increasingly popular, but few PC games at this point require them, so you probably won't need to bother with one yet. Adding one to your system later will run you about $200 if you want just a reader—or around $500 if you want one that writes Blu-ray discs, too.

CASE

Performance PCs need space for both components and cooling, and a full-tower case provides the room for both. Make sure airflow is adequate and that the case provides enough bays to add drives later. Some performance-PC makers offer liquid-cooling systems as an option, but it's unnecessary unless you have extraordinary cooling needs (say, for overclocked components) or are trying to reduce operating noise. (In the latter case, you can quiet a PC far more inexpensively by opting for larger, slower-spinning fans.) If you plan on running multiple graphics cards, pay attention to your rig's power supply (you might need a unit that can pump 700 watts or more), and the number of expansion slots available (the newest cases come with 10, to accommodate four-card SLI and CrossFire setups). Also, look for USB, FireWire, external Serial ATA (eSATA), and audio inputs on the case's front panel for easy access. A multiformat memory-card reader is convenient, too.

SOUND

Definitely spring for a dedicated sound card. The speakers included with a PC in this price range should take full advantage of the sound card's abilities. Most top cards support immersive 7.1-channel surround sound. Whether you want seven or eight speakers (and the wires they entail) is your call.

MONITOR

You'll definitely want a monitor that takes advantage of the power of your graphics card. Look for a wide-screen LCD monitor measuring at least 20 inches. (A 24-inch monitor will have enough pixels to play Blu-ray movies in their full 1080p resolution, and allow you to blast through games on a 1,900x1,200 desktop.) Also pay special attention to the LCD's pixel-response time: the lower that number, the smoother the picture. Gamers will want a 6-millisecond or faster pixel-response rate.

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Today's budget PCs deliver adequate power for most home users. Here are tips on how to get the most for the least money.

PROCESSOR

You'll pay a premium for the fastest processor, so go with a CPU a couple of cycles behind the top clock speed. It’ll save you money while still yielding a PC with plenty of power for everyday tasks. You likely won’t get a cutting-edge, quad-core processor in a budget PC, but dual-core CPUs have become significantly inexpensive, offering decent performance for a relatively low price. (You’ll need one to take full advantage of Windows Vista.)

GRAPHICS

As a rule, budget PCs use integrated graphics that share system memory and generally can't handle complex games and graphics. Most onboard graphics systems, however, have more than enough power to display the full slate of attractive Aero effects in Windows Vista. Scout out a desktop with a PCI Express (PCIe) x16 slot, which will let you add a dedicated graphics card later. Opting for a basic video card (either at checkout or later on) will cost you about $60 more than settling for integrated graphics—but if you want to do anything more than basic 3D tasks, it’s a worthwhile investment.

MEMORY

More is always better. 1GB should be fine for Vista Business or Vista Home Basic, and you can get away with 512MB for Windows XP—but if your computer will run Vista Home Premium or Vista Ultimate, don’t settle for less than 2GB. Memory prices have dropped drastically, so there’s no excuse not to load up; not getting enough will cause slowdowns that probably aren’t worth tolerating considering the money you’d save.

HARD DRIVE

If you plan to load your desktop just with Microsoft Office files, a little music, and some digital images, you can get by with an 80GB drive, the budget standard. We're pack rats, though, and with drives as cheap as they are, we wouldn't dream of settling for less than 120GB for an average home machine. Consider getting 250GB or more if you plan on using your computer to listen to digital music or download video files.

OPTICAL DRIVES

Two optical drives (recordable DVD, DVD-ROM, or CD-RW) are better than one. To cover all your bases, we recommend getting a DVD±RW drive (which can burn both DVDs and CDs) and a DVD-ROM (which can only read DVDs and CDs). If you can only afford one, go with the DVD recorder—drive prices are cheap enough these days to justify the few extra bucks.

CASE

Most budget PCs use minitower or midtower cases. If you think you'll want to upgrade or add components later, make sure the case has room for expansion.

SOUND

You'll be hard-pressed to find anything but a motherboard-integrated audio chipset in a budget PC—few provide a dedicated sound card. Integrated audio is fine for general use but tends to lack sufficient power for listening at loud levels. It may not support surround sound, either. A quality sound card costs approximately $50 more than onboard audio. Also, don't expect the standard bundled speakers to be high-quality. You might find a budget system with a three-piece speaker set (two satellites and a subwoofer), but two-piece sets are the norm.

MONITOR

CRT monitors are still available on a limited basis, but the prices for LCDs have dropped so much that it doesn't make sense to buy a bulky CRT anymore. Most budget systems that include monitors come with a 15-inch display, but upgrading that to a 17-inch LCD won't cost much. Plus, those extra inches make a big difference in viewing comfort.

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A good midrange PC will include highly capable components that can handle all your everyday computing tasks. Here's what you need to know about processors, RAM, graphics cards, storage, and more.

PROCESSOR

Don't choose an underpowered processor, but look at CPUs one or two steps down from the fastest to get the power you need at a good price. Multi-core chips feature more than one processing core on a single CPU; choose either a dual-core option from Intel’s Core 2 Duo line or a four-core CPU from AMD’s Phenom series for solid performance in Windows Vista and most other software apps. Besides, if you do heavy-duty multitasking, you won’t want anything less.

MEMORY

The more memory you have, the better your system will run. Insist on at least 2GB for Windows Vista Home Premium or Vista Ultimate; otherwise, 1GB should be sufficient.

GRAPHICS

To ensure you’ll have enough power for most basic tasks—including moderate video editing and 3D gaming—and that you can see Vista in all its graphical glory, go with a 256MB or higher card. Video card makers nVidia and AMD have many great options available for $100 or less.

HARD DRIVE

Opt for two hard drives of at least 160GB apiece, configured in a RAID Level 1 array to ensure your data is always backed up. If you have a large video or digital-music collection, you should future-proof your purchase by considering a larger drive.

OPTICAL DRIVE

Opt for a DVD±RW drive as your first choice. Two drives are better than one, though, so go with a fast CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo model for the second.

CASE

Be certain the case offers adequate expansion room, and look for a few conveniently placed front-panel ports and audio jacks. In this price range, we like to see a multiformat flash-memory-card reader built in, too. Also, make sure the power supply can handle current and future components; a 400-watt supply is a safe bet.

SOUND

Integrated sound is common, and superior to what you'll find in budget desktops. A dedicated sound card is still a better choice, however. It should cost roughly $70 to upgrade from integrated audio to a high-quality card.

MONITOR

With CRTs all but dead, chances are your next monitor will be an LCD. As with other tech, the lower the cost, the fewer the features. The first things to go are digital inputs and ergonomic adjustments; less-costly LCDs also tend to have lower resolutions and slower response times (which can lead to "ghosting"—image distortion that can occur during the fast-moving action of a game or movie). For general, everyday use, don't go smaller than a 17-inch LCD (unless you like squinting); 19-inch displays are the new mainstream size. Also consider wide-screen LCD monitors: They're great for viewing documents side by side and for watching letterboxed DVD movies.

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An entertainment desktop will enable you to watch and record TV programming on your PC, as well as make the most of your digital music, video, and images.

PROCESSOR

You don’t need the fastest available processor to take advantage of the Media Center features in Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate. Get a CPU one or two steps down from the fastest, but make sure it’s at least a dual-core, a must for surviving the multitasking entertainment required by PCs. Also, consider getting a system that uses a mobile processor. Though somewhat less powerful than their desktop equivalents, these chips generally use less power and give off less heat, meaning you’ll save more on energy and will need fewer noisy fans inside your case.

MEMORY

The more memory you have, the better your system will run. You’ll want a minimum of 2GB for running Vista.

GRAPHICS

You can get away with integrated graphics, but we recommend a dedicated graphics card with at least 256MB to take some of the edge off Media Center’s intensive processes. This should also give you enough power for video editing and modest 3D gaming. If you plan to watch protected high-definition (HD) content, buy a card that supports High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) decoding; some also have HDMI ports for outputting video and audio signals to an HDTV.

HARD DRIVE

Media files—especially digital video—take up a lot of space. Go with the largest drive you can afford, and definitely select nothing smaller than 250GB (500GB would be even better.) A multidrive RAID Level 1 array ensures your data is always backed up, which is essential if you’re storing your digital audio, video, and photography on your hard drive.

OPTICAL DRIVES

A DVD±RW drive should be your first choice for storing and sharing your media, and it should be at least a double-layer. You’ll want another drive (probably a DVD-ROM) for copying discs. Consider getting a Blu-ray drive, too: If you just want a reader for watching HD movies, you can add one for around $200; one that also burns high-capacity Blu-ray discs will run you $500 or more. Combo drives that read Blu-ray and write to DVD and CD are a reasonably priced compromise.

CASE

An A/V-style case looks best in the living room. Alternatively, you can opt for one of the ultra-small-form-factor PCs available from companies such as WinBook and Shuttle. Keep in mind, though, that their low-profile enclosures leave little room for internal expansion.

SOUND

Integrated six- or eight-channel sound will suffice, but audiophiles will prefer a dedicated card. Expect to pay about $70 more for a high-quality dedicated card in place of onboard audio.

MONITOR

If you intend to use your computer for work and entertainment, we recommend a dedicated computer monitor. Definitely go for a wide-screen LCD so you have the most screen real estate available (and for playing movies in their original aspect ratio). Televisions, on the other hand, are not ideal for general computer use unless they have an RGB or DVI connection. If you want to pair your PC with an HDTV, be aware that Media Center supports only broadcast HDTV; you'll also need an external antenna for reception.

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A solid warranty is an essential part of every PC purchase. Here are tips for getting all the protection you need when shopping for a new desktop or notebook.

WARRANTY TERM

Major vendors such as Gateway and Lenovo are attempting to set the standard term for warranty coverage at 90 days, but no PC owner should settle for a plan that short. If you're faced with coverage shorter than one year, consider buying an extended service plan. Note, though, that in most cases you must purchase the extended plan before the standard warranty expires.

PARTS COVERAGE

As a rule, standard warranties cover your computer's main hardware components (CPU, hard drive, RAM, optical drive). Software and peripherals, such as monitors and keyboards, are usually covered by their manufacturers' warranties or by an optional service plan. Keep in mind that extended service plans for PCs still won't cover these extras—they only lengthen the coverage period of the standard warranty.

DAMAGE PROTECTION

Under a standard warranty, vendors will repair computers damaged during shipping or that have defective parts. Notebook owners and the accident-prone should invest in an accidental-damage protection (ADP) plan to insure their laptops against drops, spills, and regular wear and tear. ADP plans aren't available in all states, however.

REPAIRS

Many vendors offer depot service, which requires you to return a PC to an authorized factory or service center for major repairs and parts replacement. Another option is a service plan that includes onsite repair, under which a computer technician will visit your home to fix your PC, usually by the next business day. Note that a host of eligibility restrictions usually apply to getting onsite service—carefully examine the service contract before buying.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Support via phone and online chat are generally the most effective ways to get help, but an easily navigable online knowledge base can help you solve simple computer problems at home without waiting on hold.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

While the same warranty and support policies typically apply across most of a given vendor's offerings, specific terms and conditions sometimes vary by system or system line. Always carefully review the terms for your exact model before buying.

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You can get a capable notebook with plenty of memory, storage, and optical-drive options for $1,000 or less. Here's what you need to know before you buy.

PROCESSOR

Many low-cost systems come equipped with dual-core CPUs like Intel’s Core Duo and Core 2 Duo and AMD's Turion processors. These mobile chips deliver longer battery life, stronger performance, and cooler running temperatures than mobile CPUs of yesteryear. Save a little money by opting for lower clock speeds, such as 1.6GHz or 1.8GHz, which still offer enough power to handle Microsoft's Windows Vista OS. Tiny netbooks are using Intel's Atom low-power mobile processor, which is currently a single-core chip, but a dual-core Atom is due later this year.

MEMORY

Inadequate system memory can drastically reduce overall performance, so don't be too frugal. If you can afford it, we recommend 2GB of DDR2 SDRAM, which will boost overall performance and keep Windows Vista running smoothly. 512MB or 1GB is adequate for netbooks running Linux or Windows XP. Also, be on the lookout for any free memory upgrades at time of purchase—many PC makers offer specials that double the amount of installed RAM.

GRAPHICS

Most low-cost laptops will disappoint gamers because they use more-affordable integrated graphics rather than dedicated 3D chips. When coupled with at least 1GB of RAM, Intel's latest GMA X3100 graphics chipset does support Windows Vista and its graphics-intensive Aero interface. You may find a few budget notebooks with lower-end dedicated chips, however, such as the ATI Radeon HD 2400 or nVidia GeForce 8400M. While they won’t rip through the latest titles at the highest resolutions, these Vista-compatible cards should satisfy casual gamers with their 128MB or 256MB of dedicated video RAM and DirectX 10 support.

HARD DRIVE

As hard-drive prices drop, larger models have started to trickle down into budget notebooks. The more storage you can afford, the better, especially if you have a big digital media collection. We’ve seen low-cost systems with drives as big as 250GB. While slower 4,200rpm hard drives cost less, opt for a drive with a rotational speed of 5,400rpm. Some netbooks forgo traditional hard drives in favor of a solid-state drive (SSD), which offers a faster boot time, lower weight, and increased resistance to shock. Budget-price SSDs are often very low in capacity, however—8GB is a popular drive size.

OPTICAL DRIVE

Go for a multiformat (DVD±RW) DVD burner, which writes to both plus- and minus-format DVD media. If you have no need or desire to burn DVDs, a DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive, which burns only CDs, will serve you well. Netbooks aren't big enough to come with an internal optical drive.

CASE

In terms of size and weight, budget notebooks span every category, from itty-bitty ultraportables that weigh less than 3 pounds to hulking desktop replacements that can be more than 7 pounds. What size you choose should depend on your need for portability, though keep in mind that the plastic cases typically used for budget notebooks aren’t the most durable. You’ll still find plenty of budget models with bland-looking black or gray cases, but some manufacturers offer a more exciting variety of color options and designs for their low-cost systems.

WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY

Integrated 802.11 wireless networking (Wi-Fi) is an essential feature. Look for a notebook with a Wi-Fi card that supports the 802.11a, g and Draft N wireless standards. Draft N makes use of multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) technology, which reduces signal interference and provides greater range and throughput, up to a theoretical maximum bandwidth of 300Mbps. Budget notebooks typically do not include Bluetooth wireless connectivity, although most manufacturers give you the option to add it.

DISPLAY

Although many budget laptops sport a 14.1- or 15.4-inch wide-screen LCD, notebook screen sizes can range from 7 to 17 inches. Most displays come with a glossy coating that provides a better viewing experience when watching movies. Some people don't like the reflectivity of these glossy screens, however, so be sure to check out a laptop's display in person before you buy. If you want to use your laptop for video conferencing, be sure your screen comes with a built-in Webcam, or that the notebook’s manufacturer offers one as a configuration option. If you want to use your notebook for video conferencing, opt for a system with a Webcam built in to its display bezel.

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