New desktop computer?

covetsthesun wrote:
I do some research and do online banking etc. And I do use the word processor. I also just like the full size keyboard of a desk top. Tried a laptop a few times and just did not like them. At all. I type very fast and find laptop/tablets too awkward for me to use. DH likes to sit back and browse on his desktop...music videos... movies he has on disks. He also takes a lot of photos and likes to play around with them. He'd like to have a larger monitor. Laptop/tablet would not work for him either.

I am with you on the keyboard. I have desktop, laptop, tablet and smartphone (android not iPhone) and I too prefer the desktop/laptop for most purposes. My tablet only gets used as a look into that world, it has no other usefulness to me but that is because I use PC applications like photo editing, website creation, document creation/editing, etc.

covetsthesun wrote:
We've considered a tablet for travel..or just getting an Iphone.

Smartphones are more useful for travel than a tablet in my opinion although my laptop always goes along.

covetsthesun wrote:
The external hard drive sounds like something we really need to do. Especially for DH's photo collection!

Photo backup is a must. I have HD and cloud backup and prefer the cloud (Google Photos) as you have backup and access from any device.

covetsthesun wrote:
I was mainly concerned about hacking, virus and malware issues. We both log on to financials, email etc.

Your usage and awareness of pitfalls on the Internet makes your exposure low especially with a good antivirus. I would not base a computer purchase on this risk. Now to get additional function and faster speed, maybe. But then you seem OK with the function and speed you have.

Just my opinions. Others will obviously vary. :)