<p>You want a cheap computer that has everything you need, buy from manufacturer, customize it, apply coupon codes from here: logicbuy.com and you will be set.
I got a computer, $1300 down to $850. A friend got one from $2000 to $1300.</p>
<p>And getting an Apple is a joke. Why limit yourself to one brand. The hype is not worth it. You want something that is solid and compatible with other software/hardware.
The world was not made for Apple Computers, remember that.</p>