http://www.pricewatch.com
I worked for Gateway at one time and here are my observations.
1) We were jealous of Dell because they were better (but not by much)
2) 99% of the people who work tech support for major PC manufacturers are DUMBFUCKSHITS who know basically nothing about PC hardware/software. They follow a script to try to "fix" your problem.
3) Fixing your problem isn't the #1 goal, amazingly. Selling you additional parts is.
4) If you're an asshole/assholette on the phone, we <b>will</b> fuck you by sending you the wrong parts or fucking up your computer *accidentally*.
5) I will never purchase a Gateway.
If you're comfortable putting together your own system, check out
http://www.pricewatch.com
You'll save a lot more putting your system together. There are loads of resources to check compatibility..hell, if nothing else, simply go to dell's website and "configure" a computer to your liking and then just choose those components from Pricewatch. You'll know their compatible because it says so on the Dell website.
Or, just grab your checkbook and head over to
http://www.alienware.com 