I know this has been covered here before numerous times, but there are so many different opinions; so for all you forum experts, I would love a link to the best post about the topic if you do not feel like responding in here.

I am very new to cycling (2 months in) and have been trying to ride everyday; no specific training, just trying to get out there and ride more and more. Now that winter is here, it wont be as easy to get out there and ride everyday so I am looking to buy some type of indoor equipment to ride when I cant make it outside.

I have been doing research online, but most of what I have found assumes the reader knows a little bit about indoor trainers, but I do not. So I was hoping someone could quickly explain the difference between trainers and rollers, and also the difference between the types of trainers. I keep seeing magnetic, fluid, etc, but do not know what any of that means. Like I said, I am VERY new and uneducated about cycling equipment etc.

Finally, what are some good recs for what I should get. When I have been riding outside I usually go for around an hour, sometimes hour and a half. I would like to be able to do the same indoors when I do ride. I guess the max I can spend is about $200. Is that enough to get something decent? And how long do these things usually last? I tried to give as much info as I could, but let me know if you guys need any other info to guide me in the right direction.

I would recommend a fluid trainer (as opposed to magnetic). If you're patient, then uou can find deals via Craigslist for under $200.