New Computer Advice
May 29, 2015 08:04:45 #
My current computer has been having a lot of problems lately. I get it fixed and not long after, I have problems again.
So, I am looking at getting a new one.
For the computer experts out there, what features should I be looking at as far as photography goes? For example, RAM, processor, etc.
I do not play games (well, solitaire at times).
I currently have a laptop hooked up to a monitor, but I don't need to have a laptop. A desktop would be quite alright.
Thanks for any help.
Dale
So, I am looking at getting a new one.
For the computer experts out there, what features should I be looking at as far as photography goes? For example, RAM, processor, etc.
I do not play games (well, solitaire at times).
I currently have a laptop hooked up to a monitor, but I don't need to have a laptop. A desktop would be quite alright.
Thanks for any help.
Dale
May 29, 2015 08:29:52 #
dalematt wrote:
For the computer experts out there, what features should I be looking at as far as photography goes? For example, RAM, processor, etc.
Dale
Dale
Although not a computer expert, I do have some suggestions. My standard has been 16GB of RAM and a Core i7 processor, although not the fastest. You pay a big premium for a little boost in processor speed. I prefer a separate graphics card, but not a very expensive one. Like you, no games.
As for the drives, I recommend an SSD for your C drive and an HDD as a D drive for storage. When I got my current Dell, they couldn't sell me one with an SSD, so I bought a Samsung 500GB drive. Then I added a WD 4TB Re enterprise drive for storage. Enterprise drives are rated for 24/7 usage. The OS and programs go on the C drive, and all the data goes on the D drive. In the past, when I've gotten a new computer, I could stick the D drive from the old computer into it, and I had all my files.
With the SSD, my computer boots up in about 30 seconds, and programs load very fast.
May 29, 2015 08:40:35 #
Because I use my computer mostly for processing photos and because I do not use my laptop extensively outside of the home when it came time to purchase a new computer I purchased a new iMac and am totally happy with it. I got the 21.5" all in one and believe me it is plenty large, the 27" would probably be too large for my desk.
I still have a usable windows laptop, but for my daily needs at home and for photo processing the iMac is the bomb.
PS, Photoshop CC and Lightroom for $10/month is a worthy addition to any new computer that you decide on.
I still have a usable windows laptop, but for my daily needs at home and for photo processing the iMac is the bomb.
PS, Photoshop CC and Lightroom for $10/month is a worthy addition to any new computer that you decide on.
May 29, 2015 08:45:56 #
Strangely enough, one of the best machines you can buy for editing photographs is what is referred to as a "gaming" machine ...... they have fast, very fast, graphics cards and processors to run their games smoothly which coincidentally does a smashup job on photo processing. I have an AsUS "Repubiic of Gamers" setup with an SSD drive and 16GB of RAM.
May 29, 2015 09:21:06 #
May 29, 2015 10:25:09 #
May 29, 2015 10:25:52 #
Dale,
I don't consider myself an expert, but I'll share my knowledge. Keep in mind the four items I emphasize on (CPU, RAM, HD and graphics card) are based on my personal preference and budget. A quad core processor, minimum 8 GB RAM, minimum 1 TB hard drive and graphics card with minimum 1GB RAM. Of course you might also want to get an external HD for your back-up. I have a 5 TB external and two 2TB internal Hds. Depending on your photography programs and budget having more than 8GB RAM and a 2GB graphics card might benefit you better. Keep in mind that if you install your own graphics card or additional Hds you might need to install a higher wattage power supply. This describes my desktop setup. Proshow, Photoshop, LR, LRTimelapse and Canon's EOS movie utility are a few of the programs I'm using and all are running smoothly. I hope this helps to get you started on what to look for.
Darryl
I don't consider myself an expert, but I'll share my knowledge. Keep in mind the four items I emphasize on (CPU, RAM, HD and graphics card) are based on my personal preference and budget. A quad core processor, minimum 8 GB RAM, minimum 1 TB hard drive and graphics card with minimum 1GB RAM. Of course you might also want to get an external HD for your back-up. I have a 5 TB external and two 2TB internal Hds. Depending on your photography programs and budget having more than 8GB RAM and a 2GB graphics card might benefit you better. Keep in mind that if you install your own graphics card or additional Hds you might need to install a higher wattage power supply. This describes my desktop setup. Proshow, Photoshop, LR, LRTimelapse and Canon's EOS movie utility are a few of the programs I'm using and all are running smoothly. I hope this helps to get you started on what to look for.
Darryl
May 29, 2015 10:42:29 #
Bob Yankle wrote:
Strangely enough, one of the best machines you can buy for editing photographs is what is referred to as a "gaming" machine ...... they have fast, very fast, graphics cards and processors to run their games smoothly which coincidentally does a smashup job on photo processing. I have an AsUS "Repubiic of Gamers" setup with an SSD drive and 16GB of RAM.
I agree with Bob. If you go into Best Buy or any other electronics store and ask the 20something year old attendant about a good computer for Photoshop he'll probably stand and make gagging noises as his eyes roll up in his head. If, however, you ask him about the best moderately priced gaming computer, he'll be able to talk your ear of for the next 90 minutes. That's the computer you want. :D
May 29, 2015 11:23:51 #
Blurryeyed wrote:
Because I use my computer mostly for processing ph... (show quote)
:thumbup: :thumbup:
Yep, since switching several years ago from Windows I have done fine using an IMAC. Started with a 22", then bought a 27".
Add an external thunderbolt or USB 3.0 drive for image storage, and another one for Time Machine backups and you are looking good.
16 GB of ram is the minimum in my opinion, going above 16 is good, but diminishing returns kicks in the higher you go, however I am considering moving up myself from 16 to at least 20 GB. as I have noted some swapping occurring a few times.
May 30, 2015 06:32:49 #
I recently bought an ex-office refurb from a Microsoft licensed reseller with Windows 7 professional installed and a small increase in RAM for a gnats over £200.00. I'm happy with it and bought another for Mrs. N. Cheap alternative if you are not sure exactly what you want.
May 30, 2015 06:57:28 #
jerryc41 wrote:
Although not a computer expert, I do have some sug... (show quote)
SSD drivers are fast ,but only if they are used right. You know that they have a life expectancy,which if do a few thing you can further it's life. Here's a good read of what to do and not to do.http://www.howtogeek.com/165472/6-things-you-shouldnt-do-with-solid-state-drives/
May 30, 2015 07:49:54 #
Thanks to everyone for their input.
I would wait for Win10, but my computer needs replacing now. Yesterday, I spent about 20 - 30 minutes actual computer time, the rest restarting, fixing, cursing.
In my original post, I should have included my financial status statement LOL. I thought that I might have to go to the hospital for cardiac arrest when I saw the prices of the computers some of you suggested re features.
Anyway, I have pretty much decided what to get. It has 6 GB RAM, but everything else is as suggested and it fits into my budget.
I would wait for Win10, but my computer needs replacing now. Yesterday, I spent about 20 - 30 minutes actual computer time, the rest restarting, fixing, cursing.
In my original post, I should have included my financial status statement LOL. I thought that I might have to go to the hospital for cardiac arrest when I saw the prices of the computers some of you suggested re features.
Anyway, I have pretty much decided what to get. It has 6 GB RAM, but everything else is as suggested and it fits into my budget.
May 30, 2015 08:03:19 #
Eurolux
Loc: NYC
If you haven't pulled the trigger yet, you might opt to go with a "Windows 7" based operating system rather than an "8". The Windows 8 systems are very different than what you have used (translation = hard to learn) and you can easily upgrade to the new Windows 10 operating system when it is released.
Pushing from 6GB to 8GB of RAM would also be noticeably better. If you can manage it. Best of luck.
Pushing from 6GB to 8GB of RAM would also be noticeably better. If you can manage it. Best of luck.
May 30, 2015 08:06:39 #
I have been building my own computers for over 17 years and doing some for others. Since that is not a likely option go here if you haven;t already purchased one. http://www.newegg.ca/Desktop-Computers/Category/ID-228?name=Desktop-Computers
May 30, 2015 08:10:20 #
Tomcat5133
Loc: Gladwyne PA
Get the Mac 27 and as much ram as you can afford.
I believe it is about $2000 now base. I have been working on Mac's for years. This computer is a joy to work with. I dump 40 gigs of video in and edit. Have numerous external drives to work off of. The activity on this machine over 3-4 years shows the robust use they can deal with. The 21 is OK but the difference with the 27's image is significant. The monitor is also close to true. I do not calibrate for video and photo's but believe the monitor is good.
PS Unless you are building a PC custom I would not go near Microsoft software until OS "10." Recently bought a cheap HP to check movie files created on Mac etc. The experience with setting up the HP and Windows 8.1 is horrible. Good luck.
I believe it is about $2000 now base. I have been working on Mac's for years. This computer is a joy to work with. I dump 40 gigs of video in and edit. Have numerous external drives to work off of. The activity on this machine over 3-4 years shows the robust use they can deal with. The 21 is OK but the difference with the 27's image is significant. The monitor is also close to true. I do not calibrate for video and photo's but believe the monitor is good.
PS Unless you are building a PC custom I would not go near Microsoft software until OS "10." Recently bought a cheap HP to check movie files created on Mac etc. The experience with setting up the HP and Windows 8.1 is horrible. Good luck.
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