Is your old computer getting a bit old in the tooth? Think it's time to upgrade? Considering a Dell Desktop PC? Explore the alternatives and make an intelligent choice for your next desktop pc.

When buying a new computer, or just upgrading an old pc, the main factor that you should look at is why are you upgrading? What do you want to do that your current computer doesn't allow you to do? Identify the areas which you are going to use your computer for and design it around those constraints. Are you going to use:

* Internet

* Word Processing

* Email

* Gaming

* Watching Movies or Television

* Video editing and encoding

* Graphic Design

* Work

If you only want to use your PC for internet, email, word processing, work etc then really you only need a very basic computer. Dell provides some great 'Basic Desktops' ranging in price from $299 to $548. While the lower end of this price bracket will in most cases suffice your needs, I would suggest seriously considering upgrading to an LCD Monitor. I personally find LCD monitors to be far, far less stressful on the eyes, making them perfect for extended time at the computer. They have another distinct advantage over conventional CRT monitors in their size, I find the extra working space a big bonus when I’m working at my computer.

Watching DVD's or TV on your computer requires a slight jump in components, Dell has a line of systems called the 'Entertainment Desktops' which cater for this market. Ranging in price from $497 to $679 these computers are reasonably priced and allow consumers to get a taste of Media Center desktops without the price tag.

If you're going to be gaming, doing graphic design or editing and encoding video, you will want to look at 'XPS' line of desktops. These systems are focused on the performance side of the desktop PC market. For an XPS 200 or XPS 400 you're looking at $990, the difference in the machines being the small factor form of the XPS 200, and some minor differences in specifications. At the top end of the XPS series is the XPS 600, at $1790 it may not be cheap, but it certainly is powerful. Nearly everyone will be completely satisfied with this beast sitting on their table at home, whether you enjoy gaming, multimedia tasks or graphic design.