It’s understandable you’d be looking to purchase an inexpensive computer with the economy in it’s current state, so we’ve compiled a list of the best desktop computers under $700. Many families are struggling to meet their budget in such troubling times, however desktop computers are quickly becoming an essential household item. In fact, they are non-negotiable in most US homes. There are some money essential functions computers serve us today, such as Internet use, desktop productivity, writing letters, homework for the kids and paying bills online to name a few.

Those who need a desktop computer but don’t have much to spend on the most technologically advanced PC need not worry these days. One of the benefits of such difficult economic times is that prices have continued to fall with the slumping sales climate as of late. There are also some incredible deals going on regarding certified refurbished desktop computers which many are now considering with their same as new warranties.

So let’s get to our list of desktop computers that will only cost you $700 or less:

Dell Inspiron and Studio XPS

Dell has really made some strides in affordability and reliability. Many refer to it has the Honda of computers due to how long they tend to last. Its true Dell computers are workhorses that tend keep running for years to come. What makes dell great is with the Inspiron and the Studio XPS is that you can get a very powerful processor and great amount of RAM for a phenomenal price of $349. To boot they even offer financing if you prefer payments. You can hardly go wrong with a Dell computer regarding their tendency for long term reliability coupled with great warranties. Its no surprise that they are among the most popular choices out there.

Apple Mac Mini

The Mac mini is perhaps one of the most portable desktop computers in existence. Using the Mac mini, consumers have been able to enjoy the exceptionally high quality experience offered by Apple. It features a 2.4 GHz core two duo processor along with 2 gigs of RAM. For such a small package, these are extraordinary specs, and now individuals who ordinarily wouldn’t be able to afford and Apple Computer can now do so. The Mac Mini is very reasonably priced at around $699 depending on whether any upgrades are made.

All this is an extraordinarily low price for a Mac, you can most likely purchase a desktop PC in the same price range with much higher computing power and better specifications.

Acer Aspire

Despite a slower speed than other desktops in its category, the Acer aspire is an excellent choice for those who seek both functionality and performance. Although there are many desktop PC cases that house better hardware and are slightly more expensive, the Acer’s multimedia capabilities are very respectable for a $399 to $699 package. It is a light to medium package size with industry standard specs, digital audio output and HDMI video capabilities – making it a great computer for movie viewers who like to watch on their computer screen.

Refurbished Dell, HP and Mac Computers

Believe it or not there is a huge trend shift occurring in the computer market currently. Due to huge leaps in testing capabilities and diagnostics manufacturers are now offering refurbished computers with new computer warranties. What has resulted is consumers finally taking refurbished seriously as the manufacturers have removed all the risk.

What many don’t realize is that many of these computers are brand new and were returned for one reason or another. Its not uncommon that they’ve never been turned on. The reality is the law says they can not be resold as new even if they have never been out of the box. So what it results in is customers obtaining a very reliable computer that has been tested in every way possible for often half the cost. On top of it they get a solid same as new warranty. This makes for some of the best desktop computer deals out there currently.

While this is certainly not a comprehensive list of super affordable desktop computers, we feel these options offer a great compromise between affordability, functionality and overall computer experience.