How I did it: I knew from the beginning that I couldn't afford anything brand new so I looked for used. I tried Ebay but chose an ex-government second hand place here in town. I was still tossing up spending $600 on a new-to-me computer. To me, that was a lot of money to drop on something that would essentially just be used for playing my favourite video game.

Then my boyfriend sent me a photo of an ad he saw in a shop window. It had the perfect specs, Windows XP and it was a budget price at $149. All I'd need to supply would be a keyboard, mouse and monitor. I bought it and we tested it.

My boyfriend gave me a spare power cable that I needed and I bought myself a shiny keyboard and mouse. My monitor, although old, came from my Dad who hoards computer gear.

All in all, this "new" computer cost me about $169.00!

Lessons & tips:

• Know exactly what specs you need. See if you can upgrade your current machine. Do a thorough clean of your current machine - uninstall old programs, back up photos, make CDs etc.
• Check the local paper for ads and keep your eyes peeled for ads in stores.
• Ask friends and family if they have any old computer gear or try a used computer store.
• A gently used computer might be just what you need and easier on the wallet than a $1000+ machine.

Resources:

• Loved ones
• Used computer mart website
• Game specs

Dec 26, 2010, 08:08PM PST | 1 comment | 1 cheer