I'm a n00b to tech talk, help with buying a new comp?

[Groovy Hippo]

Hi, I'm going to be getting a new desktop PC, but I'm having trouble choosing because I don't really understand all the specs. I understand RAM and memory/storage space, basic stuff, but not the processor.

I want a pc that is good with microsoft office(writing, school work etc), very fast gaming(no lag etc ^^) and really smooth running, because I've always had laptops before and they just overheat and break constantly.

So please recommend a computer that isn't REEEEEAAAALLY expensive but is fast and good, thank you

 

[MindoverMaster]

What is your budget, money wise? $800?
What games are you looking to play?
Almost anything can run office.
You have a priority over AMD or Intel?
You know the difference between DDR2 and DDR3, right?

 

[Fat.Clown]

define: "REEEEEAAAALLY expensive"

this one looks good for a casual gamer.