What's a well brought-up computer [NOT the monitor] that's not too expensive, but runs in good health?

Not something close to Dell.

Not something live VAIO.

What's a well brought-up computer [NOT the monitor] that's not too expensive, but runs in good health?

I work on computers every day, your pretty much lately buyin the name and tech support any more. Dell, and Compac still brand name their own boreds but as far as everyone else, I think their adjectives after market. All your sturdy drives and cards all are aftermarket. So lately go by what specs you want on the device then what heading you want on it.
Asus or benQ
Um......you might want to try acer, or apple....dell works fine and isn't too expensive, but....i don't know they're arn't many choices.
i.e. defend on the specs. specs are are the crucial issue not the brand name. sometimes non branded computer run faster and smoother than the branded computer.