Recommend a Computer for Parents

one man clan on 15/05/2018 - 16:47

My parents (nearly 70) are looking at buying a new computer. They have a pretty old mac desktop (probably 5+) but aren't welded to apple - they'd be happy to go back to windows. The Mac is really slow and is running a pretty old version of ios so is a bit buggy. Anything would be an upgrade.

They only use it for browsing the internet really. Nothing intensive. I don't want to build anything - would rather buy something pre-built. They need a monitor too.

I've purchased from pc case gear but their pre-built pcs are gaming and that's unnecessary for them. They want a desktop but would a laptop with a dock/monitor work? I think they'd use a laptop in the house but not sure if that's value or I could convince them.

Any recommendations? Should I just look out for a dell deal?

Computing

Comments

  • chumlee on 15/05/2018 - 16:54
    +6

    Commodore 64

  • nocure on 15/05/2018 - 16:58

    https://youtu.be/Yhs218S5BSE

  • [Deactivated] on 15/05/2018 - 16:58

    Smart phone and a magnifying glass.

  • inherentchoice on 15/05/2018 - 17:05

    Like cheap (but reliable) Chinese smartphones, you can get cheap Chinese computers too…

    Above prices are AUD but prices might be cheaper still if paid in USD.

  • DarthAntz on 15/05/2018 - 17:08
    +4

    look at the dell 9020 specials through BNCtrader that are often on here, for about $300 or less. very reliable, and compact machines. probably no need for an SSD, it:ll be too fast for them.

    • wongaubargins on 15/05/2018 - 17:22

      I recommend these too. They come with Windows I believe and they have good specs for internet browsing.

    • nubzy on 15/05/2018 - 17:32
      +1

      +1 these are great. Bought a 9010 for $180 and the thing flies.

  • outlander on 15/05/2018 - 17:16

    I upgraded my mum to a Vorke mini computer. Runs pretty well, and it's small

    • brokeunistudent on 15/05/2018 - 17:41
      +3

      I hope you at least wished her on Mother's Day before replacing her…

  • Quantumcat on 15/05/2018 - 17:31

    If they only need it for browsing then what about a Chromebook? Very cheap at least. You'd want to check whether you can plug a HDMI cable in it to send the output to a monitor.

    Or even just get them a tablet?

    • JH100 on 15/05/2018 - 17:53

      WiFi?

      • Quantumcat on 15/05/2018 - 18:27

        OP doesn't say they don't have WiFi?

  • AlienC on 15/05/2018 - 18:07
    +1

    Just get a cheap computer from gumtree.. Some that fit what you want for as low as $100.

    Some cheap small form factor pc's or sff's particularly Dell will do you nicely and if you want options like 4k YouTube/Netflix/multimedia for say a tv or 4k monitor you can add a cheap $100 gpu also from gumtree to do it.

    Graysonline also a good option but yeah tonnes of usable pc's for cheap on gumtree more so than eBay lately because there is Lee way to haggle.

  • thatonethere on 15/05/2018 - 19:16

    Ipad with keyboard.

  • frondono on 15/05/2018 - 20:37

    I'd do a fresh install of mac os, to a newer version to start off. then think about an ssd upgrade, maybe ram too.

  • boomramada on 16/05/2018 - 13:10

    For parents computer,
    make sure its fast enough with at least 8gb of ram; easy to find drivers, windows 10 is pefect; Since you be the one who fixing it.
    And have a decent virus scanner.
    if its laptop, at least 14inch+, they like bigger keyboards.

    Dell/HP second hand PC's would be perfect.

    If they not used to tablet, don't bother giving them now.

  • bargaino on 17/05/2018 - 23:13

    I'll add to the above: fix the Mac.

    As long as it is at least a Core2 duo, it is capable. Check it has at least 4GB, and might as well put a small SSD in.
    Then install a clean copy of OS-X, the latest supported. It should run well.

    • one man clan on 18/05/2018 - 08:53

      It's about 7 years old now and a iMac. I wouldn't even know where to start to open in to install an SSD.

      They were looking at an all in one with a touchscreen at JB. Thought that was a reasonable option.

      • bargaino on 18/05/2018 - 11:10

        I hope you are looking forward to years of Windows-support.

        A 7yo iMac is totally fixable. Probably just needs a clean-up. Re-install the OS is the easiest way.
        More RAM will help, but don't worry about the SSD if it is scary. You can pay a shop to do it all.

        • one man clan on 18/05/2018 - 13:22
          +1

          Hmm maybe I'll just let them get a new mac. Really don't want to be on call for tech support.

  • theHMASfriendship on 18/05/2018 - 12:24
    +2

    Deals like these https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/374783 pop up regularly. Grab one with an SSD if it's available.

    Then a 24 inch 1080p monitor from your computer store of choice for $130, a $20 keyboard/mouse combo and you're away for about $400.

    • bargaino on 18/05/2018 - 12:32

      These are great. But not much newer than the iMac? And Windows needs more resources than OSX.
      The Optiplex 9010 came out in 2012.

      However, I'd not be surprised if "old mac desktop (probably 5+)" turns into a 12yo Polycarbonate iMac :-)

  • Twinkletoes Terry on 19/05/2018 - 22:01
    +2

    Chromebooks are maintenance free and just keep going. Comes with, or without apps. Desktop, or laptop, or AIO.

    Windows are a high maintenance computer.

    Chromebooks are highly suited to your situation.

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