I'm trying to find a last-minute gift for my father-in-law for Christmas, and I thought about building him a computer. I previously found one online for around $150, but it didn't work out, so I'm returning it. He mainly needs a computer for simple tasks like browsing the internet, checking emails, and printing documents. He won't be using it for gaming or anything specialized. Is it realistic to build a computer on such a tight budget?
4 Answers
If you're looking for a desktop, check for used Lenovo, Dell, or HP business-class models. They may not be brand new, but they're built tough and can handle basic tasks easily.
Building from scratch for $150 is pretty tricky these days because of high prices on components like RAM. I'd still suggest finding a used laptop that you can repurpose. If he’s okay with a desktop, something like an N100 mini PC could work well, too.
In the U.S., you could get a Dell Optiplex on local marketplaces. Many come fully equipped with decent processors, which should fit your budget. Plus, they’re often ready to run right out of the box—happy shopping!
Thanks for the tip! I’ll definitely look there first.
Your best bet might be to look for older office machines or used desktops on sites like Facebook Marketplace. You can often find decent options under $100, which could help you stay in budget. A low-end Chromebook might also work well for his needs, and you can often find those for under $150.
That makes sense! It all depends on whether his work programs can run on a Chromebook, though.
Good point! I used to work with HP machines, and they were reliable for office use.