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Best mainstream desktops

(Oct 27, 2009)

Rich Brown 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: $1,099.00 (check prices)

Review date: Sep 10, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.9 (4.0 stars)

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: $1,049.99 - $1,449.78 (check prices)

Review date: Oct 12, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Sony Vaio JS250J

Instead of succumbing to the latest fads, the Sony Vaio JS250J all-in-one PC stays the course pioneered by its models from last year, delivering capable performance and best-of-breed home entertainment features at a better price than its all-in-one competition. The Vaio JS250J will appeal to anyone in need of a multipurpose home PC.

Price: $941.00 - $999.99 (check prices)

Review date: May 7, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.4 (3.5 stars)

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: $1,509.00 (check prices)

Review date: Aug 10, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.5 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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