Shuttle XPC X200B

The small-form-factor (SFF) case is in a bit of a transition phase right now, because the bread-box-size design we normally think of is starting to look clunky compared to even smaller case designs that have cropped up, including that of the Mac Mini, the Asus Eee Box, and others. This doesn't mean that we expect the traditional SFF case to disappear, though. We've been surprised at the number of features desktop vendors have been able to cram into the ultra-SFF boxes, but what those ultrasmall cases can't accommodate is expansion cards. So for most gaming, digital video encoding, and other tasks normally aided by PCI and PCI Express cards, you'll need the bigger little box.

Read more in the Desktop Buying Guide

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The good: Streamlined interface; better performance on many systems; easier and more capable networking; integrated CD-R/RW playback and burn features.

The bad: You can install XP on only one machine; piddling discounts for additional PC licenses; nags you to sign up for Passport Web account; multiple-user login screens are often redundant; heavy system requirements.

The bottom line: XP is a worthwhile upgrade from Windows 98 or Windows 2000. And for some, a worthwhile downgrade from Vista. Unless you need corporate administration tools, XP Home Edition should suffice for most--even for small businesses.

Microsoft end-of-sales announcement:On June 30 2008, Microsoft will stop distributing Windows XP as a stand-alone product that you can buy shrink-wrapped in the store. We'll also stop sending it to Dell, HP, Lenovo and all the other major PC manufacturers to sell on their PCs.

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The EPA's Energy Star program helps buyers easily identify the products with efficient energy consumption among a broad range of electronics and appliances.

Energy Star homepage

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Electronic products sold in the EU market that comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive have reduced levels of toxic chemicals including lead, mercury, and cadmium.

RoHS homepage

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One GB of memory is the recommended minimum to run Windows Vista and additional memory will make multitasking and graphics run smoother. Business workstations are apt to have a lot more memory to run industrial strength software. Choosing a lower memory configuration may save you money; however, most of the highest-rated desktops on CNET have 2GB.

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