[NavyVet]

I use computers a lot, though haven't really kept up the latest technology. Had some really good ones and had good luck with AMD processors, so I'm not afraid of going that route. A good Internet connection is important for speed. I get 70-80mbps wireless. As we age, it gets harder to learn a whole new operating system. I've used Windows since way back (3.1) In January, when Microsoft stopped supporting WIN 7, I bought an HP Chromebook for $200. Found it very limiting with what I could do with it and the screen too small. Even my 17" laptop wasn't enough screen. I don't want my stuff dependent on the Cloud either. So I broke down and bought a desktop with WIN 10 ($600) and a 24" monitor ($200). Much easier on the old eyes. Though I still detest Windows 10, it's what I'm used to and I still use a lot of older software. It has an optical drive, a SSD, 8GB Ram, lots of USB ports and such to connect stuff. I considered trying a Mac but too apprehensive to learn something completely different. I have an iPad and not impressed. Use that for games and ebooks as I couldn't get the email account working. On your budget and if you trust the Cloud, you could get by with a Chromebook, but it's not going to do everything a Windows pc can do. Don't know if any of this was helpful at all - just my 2 cents. Maybe try MMD Computer on 441 in Lady Lake. They might have some refurbished deals. They have handled all my pc issues and upgrades for 17 years. Good luck to you!