Dell Reviewer's Comments
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Dell offers a variety of budget desktop PCs, we looked at the Dell Dimension C521, which starts out at less than $400 and includes nVidia and AMD Sempron technologies.
This Dell has a sufficient configuration for running basic applications, but does not come with a DVD burner and has a small hard drive of only 80GB. However, if you do not plan on using your economy PC for media storage, 80 GB should be adequate.
Dell Screenshots. Click to Enlarge
Processor:
This desktop comes with an AMD Sempron 3400+ processor which is powerful enough for everyday use. However, at the time of this review, Dell was offering a cheap $20 upgrade to the AMD Athlon 64 3200+, which would be an upgrade well worth the twenty bucks.
Memory:
This computer’s hard drive is only 80GB and is has 512 KB of RAM. This much RAM will support most basic programs, although we would not recommend it for trying to run Vista.
Video/Audio:
The Dell Dimension comes with integrated video and audio components. This means that it’s video and audio elements use the systems RAM and so on to run, thus taxing the entire system. For basic computing and non–demanding tasks, this configuration is efficient and will work. For advanced multi media and gaming, it will not.
I/O Devices:
Dell’s budget PC comes with a keyboard, mouse and a DVD ROM. It also has six USB ports available, but does not support FireWire connections.
Price/Value:
This is one of the lowest priced PCs you will find, but it would be nice if it included some kind of burner and a larger hard drive.
Support/Warranty:
Dell includes a one year limited warranty with one year At–Home service and hardware support. You can contact them by telephone, email or through instant chat.
Summary:
If you are looking for a basic system and already have a good monitor, this Dell may be a good choice for you. With this computer you can surf the Internet, check you email, post to your blog and pay bills easily. It would also be perfect for student use.
Upgrades to Consider:
First off take advantage of the $20 processor upgrade, increase the hard drive to 160 GB for $40 and add a DVD burner for $60. For improved video experience, upgrade the graphics card for $50.
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