we are in the market for a new computer, mostly looking at buying a customized one off Dell.com. Any advice of us? Do any of you know where we can get a really good deal on a computer?

The best way to save money and get more bang for the buck is to build a computer. If you want one assembled already, check with Dell'* rebates and sales. They are always having them. I would stay away from Best Buy computers, because they aren't the greatest machines. Also, check out some local computer shops. They use good brand name parts for less.

Get atleast a Pentium 4 with 2.4ghz, with the 800 FSB, 512 ram and you'll be good for most anything. What are you wanting to do with this? Gaming, music, video, etc? I recommend a flat panel monitor, and a good video/sound card as well. Spending more for good speakers now is also a good thing.

I got both of my Dells from the factory outlet. A dim 8200 and a Dim 4550. Dell sets them to factory specs. They are just like new and I have never had a problem with any of them. check out the dell website then go to the factory outlet page and you can just about get any system you want. they offer free shipping at certain times. I haven't paid for shipping yet.

You can generally get $100 off somewhere, either the computer, or free shipping etc. I got that and a free printer and some hot rebates..

Do I really need XP Pro, or is Home pretty good?
It will be mostly used for surfing/chatting, writing, and the occaisional game (nothin too hardcore).

If your doing any kind of networking with other computers in the house or setting up your own domain you will want xp pro. If your the only machine in the house and plan to be...home is fine.

XP pro offers built in backup software, remote desktop (this is nice) and full control of all network settings etc. At home it isn't worth it too much, but i'm at a dorm and i don't need remote registry access, among other security problems being on this huge network.

dell is offering a Dimension 2400 right now for 599 i believe.... Pentium 4, 256 RAM, free flat panel upgrade, and the basic speakers and whatnot. if your not gonna go hardcore gaming the Integrated Graphics will probly suite most of your needs. and as has been said they almost alwasy have free shipping. and they are very good about getting you your computer quickly, and getting you your rebate fairly quickly. i got nothin but good to say about Dell....i have a Dell in case you hadnt noticed. mine is kinda gutted though. i ended up getting it for 469 after rebate.

this is what it had when i bought it

1.8 Celeron
128 MB RAM
Integrated Graphics
basic shiznit

this is what it has now
1.8 Celeron
128 RAM (soon to be 512)
NVIDIA GeForce 4 MX 420 (free)
so i havent a decent pc for barely over 500

dont know why i wrote all this....just in a talkative mood

I believe the Dim 2400 is the low end of the PC'* are you are limited as to what upgrades you can do, Video card upgrade, ect. He would be better off going with the 4550 or the 4600.