Need a new desktop.....recommendations?

[DaFace]

Originally Posted by KevB

I ended up going with a Dell XPS 400 dual core (Intel chip). 2 GB of RAM, 320 GB HD, TV tuner/remote, 20 inch widescreen LCD, etc. Got quite a nice deal through work EPP program + 30% off (18 month no interest as well). I've read several places that Dell, and all the "brand name" companies, put tons of bloatware on their new systems. Thinking I'll probably immediately format and reinstall OS....good idea?

Eh, if you want to go to all the work. I usually just run through the Add/Remove Programs list to get rid of all the crap. A clean install is undoubtedly better if you're willing to reinstall all the drivers (and you have all the programs you need), though.

P.S. Just make sure you use a true OEM Windows XP CD to reinstall. I've had to help at least 5-10 people do repair installs because they reformatted and reinstalled with a pirated copy off of the net. Now that MS is pulling all this "Genuine Windows" crap, the pirated copies are a real pain.