Dell OptiPlex GX1 400

Dell OptiPlex GX1 400

The Dell OptiPlex GX1 400 isn't perfect, but it's the top corporate PC on our Power Desktops chart, and a $180 price cut moves the highly manageable system up to third place. This zippy $2704 midtower NT machine features integrated remote management hardware, an easy-access interior, and a faster-than-average PC WorldBench 98 score of 244. Dell's good reliability and service scores make the OptiPlex GX1 400 a great addition to any corporate IS manager's shopping list.

With the OptiPlex's modular case design, every part of the system swivels, glides, or swings open for easy access. Removing the cover is literally a snap: Just press a button on the front and flick the case-lock switch at the back, and the cover swings up out of the way. Expansion cards are mounted on a separate chassis that slides out as you press a lever--no scraped knuckles here. The power supply pivots upward to provide easy access to RAM slots and the motherboard. Although the graphics chip is integrated onto the motherboard, the OptiPlex GX1 400 has an AGP slot, so you can add an AGP graphics board if you like.

But upgrading shouldn't be in the cards for some time, thanks to the hardware Dell already includes. The 6.4GB hard disk is sufficient for most uses (though we're seeing much larger drives on other top-end systems). Dell's bundled UltraScan 1000HS monitor, one of the best 17-inch Trinitron displays currently available, offers excellent image quality.

Dell ships the OptiPlex with the Windows NT 4.0 operating system and covers the system with a three-year warranty on parts and labor. Telephone support lines operate around the clock.

SUMMARY

PRO: Attractively designed corporate system, easy access to interior, excellent monitor CON: Relatively expensive