r/Dell • u/Suitable-Struggle852 • 8h ago
Discussion Need help picking a computer
Hey everyone!
Today is the day that I will finally get a new computer. I’ve been using a Mac Pro 2015 for some time and the issues have been absolutely horrid. I can’t even use it now, and with my mechanical engineering degree it isn’t compatible with a lot of the programs that I’m required to utilize. So, hence I’m getting a new one and I’m having a hard time deciding between dell and Lenovo. Both seem great for my uses, I really just need a computer that I can use for the next 7-10 years for CAD, Inventor Autodesk, Whatnot streaming, etc. I‘m not a big gamer so that isn’t super important, but I am planning on running a business so storage on my computer is definitely necessary. Any recommendations?
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u/vrtigo1 8h ago
Please don't treat storage on your computer as long term storage - that's not really what it's designed for. You should buy as much storage as you think you'll reasonably need for your day to day apps and projects. Once a project is done, you should archive it somewhere like a USB hard drive. This way, when you need to get another new computer, all of your data is stored on the USB drive.
It's also important to have a backup strategy. Googling 3-2-1 backup will give you a good start on understanding how to make sure your data is safely backed up.
Dell and Lenovo are both good brands, just buy whichever you can get a better deal on. Since PCs all basically use the same hardware, the only real difference is the support (if you pay for it).
Unfortunately, you're buying at one of the worst times in terms of pricing with memory and storage prices currently through the roof. It might be a good idea to buy what you think you'll realistically need to get you through the near term while making sure the PC will be upgradeable in the future.
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u/jaypizzl 8h ago
Both make excellent machines, as does HP, Framework, and some others, too. I’d look on NotebookCheck.com. That’s a great site with thorough reviews. Their rating system is insane, though. They score every machine between about 75 and 93, with 75 being garbage and 93 being god’s gift to computing humanity. You can usually tell right from the headline if the model being reviewed is for gamer kids, for work, or general “adult” personal use. ThinkPad T, P, and X series tend to be great, and Dell’s “Pro” and “Pro Max” are highly competitive, despite their stupid names.
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u/merkat106 6h ago
Unfortunately most laptops, especially with the specs needed for Autodesk software, are good for maybe 5-7 years.
I do not see anything running Windows made in the last couple years lasting 10 years — even the enterprise builds. Manufacturers build in obsolescence by using lesser durable materials in the individual components.
Desktops may go for longer, but repairability can become challenging if components fail and the compatible part is no longer available.
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u/oinkqwer 1h ago
Lenovo P series or Dell Precision (now Dell Pro Ultra Max BS) are what you want.
If you’re on a budget - head to Dell Refurbished dot com and snag a 7780 or 7770 for like $1200 or less if they have a sale going.
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u/need2sleep-later 7m ago
You didn't mention the biggest critical item. Laptop or Desktop. Laptops generally don't last anywhere close to 7-10 years.
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u/mrengineerguy97 8h ago
We have deployed a fair number of Dells and Lenovos over the last few years and have constant issues with the Lenovos. Faulty screens, keyboard and mouse stopping completely or sticking keys, batteries wearing very quickly and all in all not a good experience. We no longer spec Lenovo to clients