In the CR Test Labs: 14 new desktop computers

Consumer Reports News: August 10, 2009 06:08 AM

We've got a new batch of desktop computers in our test labs. Desktop prices are dropping, and we've got several systems that cost between $300 and $400. Also look for an increasing number of 1TB (yes, we mean terabyte) hard drives.

Here's a preview of what you'll see in our next computer Ratings (available to subscribers).

Asus.The Essentio Desktop packs a quad-core processor from Intel, 6GB of memory, and a 750GB hard drive, all for $630.

Compaq. The Presario CQ5110F is one of several desktops in our labs that cost less than $400. For that, you'll get a dual-core AMD processor, 3GB of memory, a fast 320GB hard drive, and 128MB of video memory.

Dell. Two Dells—the Inspiron 545 and the Inspiron 546—will make for an interesting comparison. One costs $720 for an Intel quad processor and 8GB of memory; the other is $430 for an AMD quad processor and 4MB GB of memory.

eMachines. Two budget systems from eMachines, the ET1810-01 and the EZ1601-01, fall in the $300 to $350 range.

Gateway. Both Gateway systems use quad-core processors; one costs $510, the other, $750.

HP. The IQ846 is the latest version of HP's all-in-one line, with a 25.5-inch display. Compared to the IQ804 we tested last month, this one's got an upgraded processor and video card. We're also testing two compact systems from HP. The Slimline s5160f is powered with a quad-core processor, while the s5120f is a lower-priced alternative with an Athlon dual-core processor. We've also got the p6140f, a full-sized quad-core desktop, and the p6110f, a sub-$500 system that should still pack a punch. And with the Pavilion Elite e9120f, we'll get our first look at the new AMD Phenom II X4 processor.

—Donna Tapellini

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In the CR Test Labs: 14 new desktop computers

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