Mini Barebones

[DesertGator]

So it's time to consider replacing my wife's computer. I want to do this on the cheap since all she does is email and viewing/printing of pictures so was looking at the ECS MS200 mini. As I read the descriptions, the MS200 comes with essentially just the mobo and case . I looked at Newegg and can add a "Clarkdale" i3 and 8GB of GSkill DDR3 1333 for a total of $274.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16856501004&Tpk=MS200

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115065

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231402

I'm going to recycle her Hard Drive, monitor, Win7, etc. to fill out and just wanted to see if anyone could come up with any compelling reasons I should stay away from the minis since I've never built one of these form factors before.

Thanks in advance.

[ovillegator]

Ummm... ummm... sorry, I am totally ignorant on that stuff. Just didn't want you to go unanswered! But can't you just buy a whole new cheap computer for $300-$400 brand new, and be done with it? Would have the latest stuff on it at least.

[DesertGator]

Ummm... ummm... sorry, I am totally ignorant on that stuff. Just didn't want you to go unanswered! But can't you just buy a whole new cheap computer for $300-$400 brand new, and be done with it? Would have the latest stuff on it at least.

I've thought of that, but two things. One is those computers don't have near the components (less mem, less HD, less CPU). Two is I like building them :laugh:

[orangeblueorangeblue]

Can I ask why you're buying a desktop if all she does is email and Web? Is it solely because you like to build new boxes?

[DesertGator]

Can I ask why you're buying a desktop if all she does is email and Web? Is it solely because you like to build new boxes?

That's part of it. The big reason is I want to be able to recycle a lot of parts I've been feeding her computer over the last while from my build so it stays affordable. We keep 2 networked computers because I use mine A LOT and that way she can use hers when she needs (and it's hers, with her settings, etc)

[bofusgators]

Go to a local repair shop and discuss your needs with a used whatever. You might be able to get a good deal. I did.

[DesertGator]

So I shied away from the mini because I didn't like the power limitations. Went with a cheap Antec case & 380W supply. Added in a BioStar mobo, Core i3 3.3GHz (liked the onboard chip graphics set) and 8GB of DDR3. Total cost ~$250. Thank you Newegg and hopefully this one lasts as long as the last one did.