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November 26, 2008 2:40 PM PST

eMachines desktop computer takes a nosedive

by Justin Yu

We normally don't give budget desktop computers less than a three-star rating, mostly because the majority of them contain similar components, so it comes down to a question of pricing and overall value. Unfortunately, the eMachines EL1200-05w just doesn't make the grade and successfully garners one of the lowest ratings we've given to a budget system in a long time.

The problems begin with a subpar collection of internal components. The $298 price tag nets you a single-core 1.6GHz AMD processor, a measly 1GB of RAM, and Windows XP. Chances are, if you're shopping for a desktop at this price bracket, you most likely won't be popping off the side panel, but adventurous types will be disappointed by the cramped interior and meager opportunity for future upgrades. eMachines gives you a slimtower chassis and a handful of port cutouts in the back for aftermarket sound and video cards, but you'll be pulling your hair out trying to perform a simple memory upgrade.

If you're on a strict sub-$300 budget, the eMachines EL1200-05w will barely get you through baseline applications, but don't expect to run any kind of graphics editing software. We recommend saving a little extra for the Acer Aspire AX3200 or the HP Compaq Presario SR5610f.


Check out our full review of the eMachines EL1200-05w.
Justin Yu covers desktop computers, printers, and peripherals for CNET. When he's not scouring eBay for useless ephemera or eating hot dogs for breakfast, he spends his time making fun of Internet culture every morning on The 404 podcast. E-mail Justin.
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by zumba345 November 27, 2008 7:58 AM PST
Although I may agree that the other systems do pack a better punch in the ability to upgrade and bang for the buck, but if you still favor Windows XP over Vista, then the e Machines is still a good buy, allowing you to have XP on a new computer in-time for Christmas gift season or just to have an XP OS computer to use some of your possible software that do not work in Vista. Overall, as I am using this mentioned computer to type this, the speed is average, not intended for gaming or graphic design and such, but for the most part, if you are looking for something that is familiar and for use of daily use such as internet surfing and work processing (regular desktop or dorm computer) this is the one for the price. My friend got it for the dorm and with the price tag so low and the low noise and small size, he can put it anywhere and use it anytime without disturbing his roommate.

I recommend this computer for the daily computer users and basic school work / research.
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by sudeki123 December 4, 2008 6:45 AM PST
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