IBM NetVista A20i 227670U

WHAT'S HOT: Anyone on a budget will like this NetVista's affordable $838 price tag. And unlike many sub-$1000 systems, it comes with a first-rate monitor. The 17-inch IBM E74 monitor displayed crisp and realistic color images with excellent definition up to 1024 by 768 resolution. Also unusual for a low-cost system, the NetVista A20i 227670U provides respectable upgrade options, with very easy access to two free expansion bays (one providing external access) and two free PCI slots. The software package, which includes Microsoft Works 2000 and Lotus SmartSuite, is also generous for a system in this price range.

WHAT'S NOT: The system's biggest drawback is its poor graphics performance. Like most PCs with Intel's integrated 810 graphics subsystem, the NetVista A20i 227670U earned low scores in two of our 3D gaming tests and cannot support the 32-bit color required for our third test, Quake III. The included keyboard is extremely light and flimsy--surprising, given IBM's reputation for great keyboards. The 10.2GB hard drive is small by today's standards.

WHAT ELSE: The WorldBench 2000 score of 104 is about what we'd expect from a Celeron-600 system running Windows Me. The two Pro Juster DC-691B speakers are a notch better than the very cheap units that often accompany a budget system. The short user manual and IBM's online help system do a good job of covering very basic setup and use issues, but they lack the depth to cover more complex topics.

BEST USE: This is a good choice for the family or home office user seeking an affordable second PC for Internet access or other basic tasks. Serious office users will want a better keyboard.

SUMMARY

IBM NetVista A20i 227670U PC WorldBench 2000 score of 104, Celeron-600 CPU, 64MB of SDRAM, 128KB L2 cache, Windows Me, 10.2GB hard drive, 22X-48X CD-ROM drive, integrated Intel 810 graphics with UMA, IBM E74 17-inch monitor, integrated sound, Pro Juster DC-691B speakers, V.90 modem, minitower case, Microsoft Works 2000, Lotus SmartSuite, Microsoft Money 2000. 1-year parts warranty, 1-year labor warranty; paid 24-hour tech support. $838 800/426-2968 www.pc.ibm.com/us/netvista