What machine should I purchase/build for an HTPC?

[duder_me]

Hello. I am planning on purchasing or building a PC that I can use mainly for Windows Media Center. I usually hear that building a PC is cheaper than buying one, but I don't know if that applies to small form factor PCs. I was thinking of purchasing a Dell Inspiron Small Desktop 3000 Series: http://www.dell.com/us/p/inspiron-3647-small-desktop/pd, but then again I could save money by purchasing a refurbished Optiplex model that is several years old.

What would be the best option?

[Moderator note: topic moved]

[mdavej]

The Intel J1900 in my Acer is perfect for HTPC use (live and recorded TV) and maxes out at just 10W. So the J1800 in the 3000 may be ok too, but you'll have to look at the benchmarks to get a better idea.

I've used older Optiplexes which have worked fine. But newer boxes are much quieter and more efficient and can use on-board video. So I think newer boxes are worth the extra money.

[mike_ekim]

Duder, the Dell will be fine for an HTPC (as long as you don't want to do any real time transcoding) - but keep in mind that if you want to use Windows 8 with WMC, you will need to upgrade to Windows Pro, I believe the upgrade costs about $100.

Here's an Windows 8 PRO desktop for under $350:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6883148184

If an older box comes with Windows 7 home premium, you won't have to upgrade. Here are a couple of Win 7 PCs on Newegg for less than $350 (i.e. less than getting a $250 computer and spending $100 on an upgrade).
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6883156229
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6883103986