Looking for suggestion​s for a new computer

Question

Hello!
I am curently an undergrad student with a 4(ish) year old Toshiba Satellite A505. It has an Intel Core 2 Duo CPU Processor (P7350 @2.00 GHz), 4GB RAM, and a 64-bit opperating system. I bought it with Windows Vista on it and still use it. No changes have been made to the opperating system or other specs on the computer. It runs fine but is getting a little slow and I know that it is getting behind on opperating system capablilities and harddrive capabilities.
I am planning on going on to Grad school within the next 2 years. I know that is a long time to be looking for a computer now, but I need to start saving and thought that I could find at leas ta ball park of what I will be spending and what to look for when I finally get around to buying a new computer. I will be studying archaeology and will be using programs like AutoCAD as well as running my own reasearch, which will include a lot of image editing, storage, and use. I will also probably be using a lot of data and database programs as well as writing many, many very long research papers and doing many presentations. Not to mention everyday student use for note taking and studying. I also like playing The Sims (FYI). I want something that can be used for perosnal use as well as a research tool so I would like to have something that can hold up to frequent "light" use and frequent "heavy" use. I love my Toshiba. It has been a wonderful computer and wouldn't mind staying with that company. However, I'm not afraid of going to a different company as long as it isn't Apple. I wouldn't mind using a Mac, but with all the research I plan on doing I would like to have a computer that is as compatable with the University system as possible.
In summation, I'll need something with a lot of power, a lot of space, and the ability to run both light and heavy programs like AutoCAD and photo/data editing and storage software as well as being suited for normal student and personal use. No Macs.
Thank you!

Answer 1

Both computers I would like to suggest are both out of stock at the moment due to the holidays. However, both of these would be excellent choices considering we are talking about heavy cpu usage.
I believe both of these are possible heavy hitters for you.
I personally own this machine so can claim that this machine should meet your every need without a hiccup.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/desktop-16gb-memory-1t​b-hard-drive/6979896.p?id=1218818471131&skuId=6979​...
This one is also very similar.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/desktop-16gb-memory-2t​b-hard-drive/1494213.p?id=1219052697455&skuId=1494​...
I am not affiliated with Best Buy nor have I ever been employed by Best Buy. All of my thoughts and posts are of my own opinion and personal experience.
I may not always know the right answer, but I will always tell you what I do know. I also do free computer analysis and consultation via private message.