Where to get a cheap computer for a highschool freshman?

I'm going into highschool next year and I want a new computer. I don't want to spend too much money on it though. The one I'm currently using is about 3 years old and I got it for like $100 I think. I know 3 years isn't that long ago, but I've reformatted my computer like 5-10 times each year! It's really annoying. Anyways, I use my computer for.. -internet -researching -online shop browsing -games ( a little bit ) -chatting with my friends (AIM) -schoolwork -music (iTunes) P.S. Currently, I only have 640MB of RAM & 37.2 GB of capacity. It would be great to find a cheap, but reliable and fast computer :D Thanks! By the way, I have a PowerSpec. IDK what model it is, but it says 52X max on the front of the PC.

Public Comments

1. blue hippo..
2. You don't say what computer you've got but the RAM and HD numbers are respectable for the uses you mention. Obviouly your machine is not healthy if you have to reformat so often. That could be why you got it for $100. If you can spend $500 I think you'll find something with better specs and a new monitor just about anywhere computers are sold. Otherwise you might check out dealers that sell used machines but try to check it out before you buy and see if you can get a warranty.
3. You need an Apple. You will never have to reformat them. They always work perfect! And Mac is very easy to use. Plus it runs a lot faster.
4. To me Alienware is the best pc out there, but if your on a budget some of DELL pc's are ok, even some of there new laptops like those ones that come in so many colours..... but if your really cramped for cash Acer is ok but there a much smaller company and you might not find it, but I am pretty sure you can find it in Staples.... If you can't get a computer in time for grade 9 don't worry I went through grade 9 with a very crappy computer don't worry what you have now is fine for all of your highschool days ( if your extremly strapped for cash) Tip- get a nice printer with a scanner etc. if you don't have one there great for presentation when you have to hand out stuff ( that way when the teacher asks if you need anything photocopied you say no, they think your presentation will have no handouts, then you suprise them with colour hondouts) FYI- I am in all academic ( i don't know if you call it somthin' else in the states but in Canada it's like the highest stage for your grade- after highschool you go to university, So if your under that you may not even need that (no offense)---On a budget Brother printers they're pretty cheap ( i think??) And don't worry 'bout highschool no big deal-- not that hard my school is about 1700--and I was the new kid but i did already kno some of the seniors there..... Good Luck!!