I'd like an inexpensive computer for my neighbor

I bought this one:

1726504784354.webp
 
I have an N100-powered Beelink mini PC here at work (I'm on it now) running Linux and it's more than fine for what I need it for.

That Ryzen 7-powered machine should be plenty fast and capable and should last her for years.
 
NorthstarredToyota said:
Nukeman, the Apple Mac Mini comes in about the same price at $500, I think MacOS is more versatile and easier than Chrome, more service options with Mac, Mac is stable and should be an easy transition from Windows.

A base model Mac Mini is more than enough for her--and the base model comes with 256GB storage, not the 128 in the Chromebox above.

https://www.apple.com/us-edu/shop/buy-mac

Also, I would think Shel B is going to have fewer support issues with Mac versus Chrome (just my opinion), mac Hardware and Software generally extremely stable and reliable.
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What about getting your neighbor a tablet? Smaller portable and easy to use.
 
A fanless mini-PC could certainly work for her, or a minimal tower - even off the used market. If she's not absolutely committed to Windows I'd suggest Linux Mint. I converted my daughter's and a neighbour's Windows laptop to Mint and their computer woes disappeared.

Most people just need something to connect to the internet and run a browser, so pretty basic computing needs easily met by Linux Mint and the Cinnamon desktop, which is generally an easy transition from Windows.
 
Shel_B said:
My neighbor is a 90yo woman with almost no knowledge about computers. Her current machine is an ancient HP that barely runs. I'd like to find a desktop/tower machine that can fit under her desk that offers good wireless accessibility and which will be used almost 100% for online shopping, watching sports and streaming services like Netflix, and, of course, email. I just need the box as I have a really nice, big, Dell screen that I'll give her. She'll need speakers of some sort, probably something like Bluetooth. Sound needn't be high-end, but her hearing is bad, so the sound must be clear and able to have some volume.

She's been happy with the HP brand, and it's comfortable for her. I have a Dell account and can get interest-free financing. That's helpful, but not a requirement.

I've seen some all-in-one machines that look interesting, similar to this in style and features. What are your thoughts on these?

HP All-in-One

Is there something out there that'll last her the rest of her life (remember, she's 90) for about $500.00 or so, maybe less? More than likely I'll be loaning her the $$ if not making her a gift of the machine.
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I bought a system for my mother from Amazon. I think I paid $350 for EVERYTHING (monitor, keyboard, speakers, mouse, all of it, and it ran 100% of the things she wanted (YouTube, music, all of her spreadsheet/Microsoft programs, etc.) very well. No issues.

My grandma is the only person over 80 I've ever met who embraces and actively seeks new technology (She was pecking away at her smart phone, sending the more complex emojis properly placed in every text, etc. It was absolutely wild). If your neighbor is not like this, change as little as possible regarding operating systems, etc. Basically she should see a new box under the desk and that's it except things "work better like when the old one was new".
 
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