Advice on first computer

[airbolt]

A couple who live near me are thinking of getting their first computer. They are in their 50s and arent really into technology.

As far as i can tell they really want something basic that connects to the net. They really arent after anything powerful and i gather it will be in a room rather than mobile.

Any advice on a good entry level pc's or laptops ? Also useful would be any outlets that provide good after-sales service .

They are good friends and i would like to give them good advice.

[fo3nix]

A cheap Dell will likely fit the bill. Apple iMac is an even better option in terms of simplicity, but may be too expensive for them, for their first computer if they just want basic tasks.

I'd also throw in the idea of using Ubuntu instead of Windows. It's totally free, more secure, and comes with a Word processor, spreadsheet, music player, web browser, email, everything.

It may be a better idea than Windows because they won't have constant nagging of Windows updates etc. to contend with, and it would run more smoothly on a lower-spec computer than Vista or even XP will.

The only problem with this idea is that their friends and family who can show them how to use it likely will be used to only Windows themselves.