What's the best computer with Windows XP for under $300?

Are you in Saskatoon by any chance? I refurb computers, and got a nice one sitting here. Selling it for $250

lol

We can’t really tell you anything about a refurbished computer because they aren’t really important to mostpeoplem but look for something with a good video card, lots of RAM, and a good CPU, preferably a dual core.

For gaming, there are three components which will probably limit you on a $300 new or factory-refurbished computer:
Slow Processor
Slow hard drive
Weak video card

I think the best bet is asking a gamer friend help you find a good used machine.

Used computers do not have very much resale value. Which is good for you, the buyer. Don’t be afraid to bargain – people often ask for unreasonably high prices. I would watch Craigslist until something good shows up.

Where I am (Seattle), such a rig could be had for next to nothing. We have recycled PC places that sell towers for under $200 that meet/exceed that. Hell, I’ve given away at least for systems like that!

Craigslist and Ebay can also find you such a system; I got one from Ebay for $160 when I lived someplace that didn’t have the types of stores Seattle has. I’ve also got a few systems for free from friends who recently upgraded.

In each case, I had to use the monitor, keyboard, and mouse I already had, but those items are cheap. For instance, I got a 20” CRT monitor from Craigslist for free, and my cordless Logitech mouse was $6.

I just bought the following for under $300 with 2-year replacement warranty:

Dell Optiplex 320
The computer comes with an Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz processor and 400 GB hard drive.

Processor: 2.0 GHz Core 2 Duo
Memory: 2048 MB RAM
Hard drive: 400 GB
Optical drive: CDRW/DVD ROM drive (combo)
Operating system: Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP3 Pre-installed
Display: Monitor is not included
Network devices: RJ-45 Integrated 10/100 LAN
Modem: Not included
Audio: Integrated sound with microphone and headphone jack
Video: Integrated video with VGA port
USB port: 8
Serial port: 1
Parallel port: 1
Keyboard/mouse: Included
Recovery/restore options: Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP3 installation CD
Package includes: Computer system, keyboard, mouse, power cord and Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP3 installation CD
Model number: Dell Optiplex 320

This high-quality Off-Lease item has been factory refurbished. Please click on the icon above for more information on quality Off-Lease-reconditioned merchandise.

PM Me if interested. I can replace the CDRW/DVD with a DVD-RW drive

@njnyjobs About on-par with what I could get for that price here. Good find!