Compaq CQ2009F: A peek at a cheap PC

If you're looking for a really cheap computer, you might want to consider the HP Compaq Presario CQ2009F desktop PC.

Consumer Reports just bought one—for only $270 (not counting shipping). That makes it one of the lowest-priced PCs we've ever brought into our computer test labs.

Such a cheap computer might be very tempting for cash-strapped PC shoppers. But just what are you getting for your hard-earned dollars?

Our budget Presario is fresh out of the box, so we're just beginning our extensive evaluation of the PC. But some informal, initial observations:

• It's tiny. The CQ2009F is roughly 9½ by 10 by 4½ inches (HxDxW)—smaller than even the HP Pavilion Slimline we've been testing. (Click on the images for more details.)


• Ports a-plenty. There are four (two front, two rear) USB ports; dedicated keyboard and mouse connections; front-mounted microphone and headphone jacks; a slot for nearly any digital camera memory card format (except Compact Flash). And of course: Ethernet and telephone jacks are on the back.


• Also included: A DVD burner, a 160 GB hard drive, 1 GB RAM, and Windows XP Home.

But, some design issues that you should be aware of:

• The keyboard is somewhat cramped. (Click on images at right.)


• The power supply is external—similar to the power cords for most laptops and the Apple Mac Mini.


• There's no spare drive bay. You'll need external drives, which are typically pricier than internal models, for more storage space.


• Not included: A monitor or speakers.

Obviously, there's much we won't know until we put it through our rigorous lab tests.

For example, its Intel Atom 230 processor isn't as robust as the chips found in most desktops. We expect it to perform well enough for most people's typical tasks like word processing, e-mail, and Web surfing. But we don't expect stellar results for demanding applications, such as action games and video editing.

Another consideration: In our surveys, Compaq's reliability and technical support have been undistinguished. (Computer brand reliability data and computer tech support Ratings are available to subscribers.)

Our take (so far): This dirt-cheap computer will most likely satisfy budget-conscious shoppers looking for an inexpensive home PC for routine tasks.

We'll complete our lab tests and detail the performance of the HP Compaq Presario CQ2009F in our desktop computer Ratings (available to subscribers) soon. In the meantime, for more computer shopping help, see our free online Computer Buying Guide online.

—Jeff Fox

—Jeffrey Fox