(Mar 18, 2010)
Rich Brown
Senior Editor
Neither too hot (expensive) nor too cold (boring), these PCs are just right. They may not have the very latest technology, but last month's new feature is this month's bargain. The most demanding users are the only ones who won't find what they need with one of these midrange PCs.
Velocity Micro Edge Z30 (Intel Core i7)
Velocity Micro's Edge Z30 is the best deal going right now for midlevel gaming PCs featuring Intel's new Core i7 chips. The overclocked Core i7 860, a fast Nvidia graphics card, and a solid selection of features all around make it easy for us to recommend this system to anyone looking for a capable gaming desktop.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Sep 10, 2009
Excellent
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HP TouchSmart 600
If HP's TouchSmart 600 won't at least get you thinking about the idea of bringing a PC into your kitchen, the concept truly has no hope. With well-though-out touch apps, a wide, easy-to-use array of digital media features, and an attractive, flexible design, HP's new all-in-one is not the fastest new all-in-one, but it has the most comprehensive and compelling set of features of any all-in-one launching alongside Windows 7.
Price: $929.99 - $1,345.00 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 12, 2009
Excellent
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Apple iMac (21.5-inch, 3.06Hz Intel Core 2 Duo, Nvidia GeForce 9400M, Fall 2009)
Despite its good looks and a few useful new features, Apple's new iMac is all about business. You can find a larger screen for less, not to mention all kinds of digital entertainment features, but no other all-in-one at this price can boast similar performance. If you need a modestly priced all-in-one for getting work done, we'd recommend no other system.
Price: $1,169.00 - $1,194.00 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 17, 2009
Very good
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Dell Inspiron i580-5108NBC
The Dell i580-5108NBC offers a generous mix of components including a discreet graphics card, Intel's newest Core i5 processor, and a wireless networking card. Coupled with an affordable price tag and chart-topping system performance, this multipurpose PC is well deserving of our recommendation.
Price: $799.99 (check prices)
Review date: Mar 11, 2010
Very good
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Dell Studio XPS 9000 (formerly XPS 435)
The Dell Studio XPS 435 successfully overcomes our bias against desktops that claim to be experts at everything through charming case design and a strong configuration at a relatively fair price. It misses greatness because of a handful of minor missteps, but if you need a do-it-all mainstream tower system, this Dell more or less covers all the bases.
Price: $1,449.00 (check prices)
Review date: Aug 10, 2009
Very good
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