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ADVICE NEEDED: Dell OptiPlex 9020 SFF vs. Lenovo ThinkCentre M73 Small

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6.8K views 4 replies 3 participants last post by  spunk.funk  
#1 ·
Hello, everyone.

I am thinking about getting a desktop computer from PCs for People and I'm torn between two options:

Dell OptiPlex 9020 i5 4570 SFF Desktop Full Set: PCsrefurbished.com - Product Page
Lenovo ThinkCentre M73 i5 4570 Small (SFF) Desktop Full Set: PCsrefurbished.com - Product Page

I don't really know enough about computer systems and specs to decide which would be the better option. For reference, this computer will be used for daily personal use and possibly hybrid/remote work so I need something that can handle multi-tasking and will perform well for a long time before needing to be replaced.

Also, I will be getting a 1TB HDD at 8GB RAM.

I pulled this up to help me decide: Dell OptiPlex 9020 SFF vs. Lenovo ThinkCentre M73 Small Comparison
but again I don't know enough to really understand the differences, which is better, which is more bang for my buck, and so on.

If someone could give me some advice on this, I would really appreciate it!
 
#3 ·
Both of these computers are similar in their specs.
Both of these computers are over 10 years old. So, they more then likely don't support Windows 11.

If you don't game or do any high end graphics like AutoCAD, then either would do.
But You shouldn't waste your money on something this old. You should get something much newer.
 
#4 ·
I'll be using them for light personal use: email, browsing, streaming. And right now, researching job listings and applying for online applications. I'm not a gamer.
And possibly for hybrid work: I work primarily in data entry and admin work - so I'll need to be able to securely access work related databases and softphone or VOIP systems.

I unfortunately can't get anything more expensive at this time. I am in between jobs and looking for work. My sole income right now is SSI - so very fixed. So far, this has been the best reduced program I can find in my area. I'm looking for a new computer because my laptop is on its last leg. It's been acting up for 6 months and despite optimizing, cleaning, and restoring, it still has lag, the screen and programs will blackout, and it goes through periods of not loading my Windows profile upon startup. I had to restart 4 times to get it to start right this morning. Getting the insides replaces would probably be more expensive than what I'm doing now.

I need to find something I can afford with the best specs available. The only other option I've found that I would be eligible for is a disability program through my local university. But they only have laptops with 128GB HD and 4GB RAM. Most employers require at least 8GB RAM for hybrid work.
 
#5 ·
What is your budget? We can suggest some laptops in your price range.

the University laptop would be great to get your started. You can always upgrade the Ram and Drive at a later date as needed when you have more money.