CNET editors' buying advice
We have not reviewed this product but here is CNET's buying advice on Desktops. This content was chosen based on the features included with this model of desktop.
Desktops computer processors
The central processor (CPU) is the heart of any computer system and the best test as to whether a desktop computer or notebook fits your needs. The trouble is, processor names like Athlon and Celeron are as undescriptive as system names like Latitude and Pavilion. Here's a quick guide to see which chip is a fit:
| Manufacturer | Processor name | Processing power | Designed use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intel | Core i7 | Very high | Gaming and graphics |
| AMD | Phenom | Very high | Gaming and graphics |
| Intel | Core 2 Quad | Very high | Gaming and graphics |
| AMD | Athlon | High | Mainstream |
| Intel | Core 2 Duo | High | Mainstream |
| AMD | Sempron | Medium | Entry level |
| Intel | Celeron | Medium | Entry level |
| Intel | Pentium Dual Core | Medium | Entry level |
| Intel | Atom | Low | Small form factor desktop |
| Via | C7-M | Low | Small form factor desktop |
| Intel | Pentium | Low | Budget |
| AMD | Opteron | Very high | Server |
| Intel | Xeon | Very high | Server |
See more Desktops processor products
CNET product brief
Description: This configuration of the Dell Studio Mini-Tower Desktop Computer is a Core 2 Quad-based, general-purpose computer.Compared to other consumer level desktop computers on the market, it is very inexpensive at around $795.This desktop comes with 6 GB RAM, and a 640GB hard disk.
Pros: Has an 18.5 screen.This is larger than the average desktop computer on the market today, but is to be expected for a desktop computer of this price.Also, the 640GB hard drive installed on this machine has more storage when compared to the average desktop.However, the Core 2 Quad based processor installed on this machine is fast enough to handle demanding applications, such as database and development software.
Cons: Simple connectivity tasks (such as checking email or web browsing) will rarely show the deficiencies of shared video memory, though 3-D apps will.
Suitability: A mainstream desktop computer, suited for basic computing, plus digital photo sorting, audio appreciation, and entertainment applications.
Value: Given its very inexpensive price, this desktop computer has good features for the money.However, this desktop combines fast processing with plenty of storage.If you were to judge strictly by CPU speed, however, the price of a general-purpose PCs with comparable speed is about 30% higher.
Suggestions: Check to make sure that an AGP or PCIe slot is available if you plan to upgrade to a stand-alone graphics card.
CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information about how we create Product Briefs, contact us.
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