Buying new computer need opinons

Computer #1 has an Intel Pentium 4, 64-bit, 2.93GHz processor and Intel Graphics Media Accelerator with up to 224 MB DDR Shared Video Memory. I believe that means the graphics are on the mother board and there is no PCI slot for upgrades, but I could be wrong.

Computer #2 has an AMD Athlon 64 3400+, 64-bit, 2.20GHz processor and an ATI Radeon Xpress 200 graphics card with and available PCI-Express slot for upgrade.

Both computers have the same memory (512MB dual channel expandable to 4GB), same HD (200GB), same optical drive, media reader, USB ports, etc. Prices are about the same ($500).

I am a proponent for AMD because they run the same speed as the Intel at lower front side bus (hence the lower processing speed of 2.2 GHz) The system runs cooler. You are also not sharing the memory on the video so the processor can just do the processing which also increases the speed (comparatively). With the PCI Express you have the ability to upgrade in the future and I'm buttuming that there is also an AGP slot for the video so you could replace the video card should it fail. The onboard Intel video would require a motherboard replacement (more expensive)

Also check your local computer store. They are usually very knowledgeable on the newest technology and could probably build the system you are looking for a little cheaper than what the brand names sell them for. It would also give you a local tech to speak with instead of an 800 number and a long hold time for an easy question.

Hope that helps.