The computer industry is a very dicey place.There are great many products coming out everyday.Advertisers make tall claims.Magazines like CHIP, Digit and PC Quest print detailed reviews.But in the end you buy what you need.Now when you are actually buying, its difficult to figure out what you NEED.Nobody knows what developments will come tomorrow and your PC will become dated.Also even big cos do their billing to extract maximum cash out of the customer.
Before buying its best to talk to an expert about your needs.He or she might be able to help identify your requirement better and suggest a good model for it.Also get as many estimates from as many dealers you know.Enquire about aftersales service.Your budget is a BIG factor.For good money you get good stuff.Also, the first machine SHOULD be an assembled PC.You can even take it to pieces, monetary losses would be minimal.Go for branded machines only if you are confident of handling everything properly independently.