Dell Reviewer's Comments
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The Dell Dimension E512 is an exceptional home computer package at an affordable price and is the “TopTenREVIEWS Silver Award” home PC. This desktop comes standard with a gigabyte of RAM and a 250 GB hard drive—this is more than enough memory to accomplish all of your home computing needs like word processing, spreadsheets, Internet research and basic media editing.
A great aspect about shopping at Dell is that you can select the components you want added or taken away. With this kind of customization, you can build a computer to fit your needs and your budget, easily and quickly.
The blatant difference between the Dell and the Gateway is the processor.
Dell Screenshots. Click to Enlarge
Processor:
The E512 comes with a 2.8 GHz Intel Pentium D processor with an 800 MHz bus speed. This is a dual core processor so you can run multiple programs at one time without hindering the performance. This is practical, for example, while running a security suite, surfing the web and photo editing at the same time.
Memory:
The Dell comes with 1 GB of RAM at the base price. This is sufficient to run all of your home software.
Video/Audio:
This home PC comes with the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3000. This is an integrated chip so it isn’t going to perform as well as a graphics card. Nevertheless, it is adequate for most home computing needs.
I/O Device:
Dell includes many I/O devices with the base price. This helps keep the overall price down. The system we configured has everything you need for home computing including a monitor, printer, speakers, keyboard and mouse. The only thing this PC lacks, which the Gateway includes, is the FireWire port. The most common purpose of the FireWire port is for home video editing. If your digital camcorder requires this type of connection, you can add the port for $30.
Value/Price:
At $903, this is a great buy—the PC doesn’t reflect the cheap price. Contrarily, you get a nice home/office computer, complete with a flat panel screen, speakers and a printer—a package that is sufficient for everyday use.
Dell offers free shipping.
Support/Warranty:
Dell sets the standard when it comes to customer service. They offer online chat so you can chat with an educated customer support representative. They also provide a phone number, email address and plenty of online documentation to help you choose the right computer and answer any questions.
This price includes a one–year parts warranty and one year of at–home service. This means that if you need a part replaced by a technician, Dell will send someone to your home or office—often the next business day.
You can upgrade your warranty to two, three or four years for a small fee.
Summary:
Overall, the Dell Dimension is a budget–friendly computer that includes everything a family, businessperson or college student needs at a low price.
©2008 TopTenREVIEWS, Inc.
