HP has been edging ahead of Dell recently in both desktops and laptops. More and more people are complaining about Dell's customer service and use of nonstandard parts (which makes it more difficult if not impossible to upgrade). When it comes to buying a new desktop PC, though, it is cheaper to build your own system. Simply research necessary parts using sites like newegg.com or tigerdirect.com, make your selections, and piece it together. It's very easy, you get a better system for nearly half the price, and you learn a lot in the process so you know how to better take care of it once it's built.