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 $301 price cut helps keep the highly manageable midtower in third place. This $2403 system features integrated remote-management hardware, an easy-to-service design, and a notable (for comparable systems) PC WorldBench 98 score of 244. Dell's good system reliability and service quality scores make the OptiPlex GX1 an excellent addition to any IS manager's shopping list.

With the OptiPlex's modular case design, every part of the PC 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 and 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. The only mark against the OptiPlex is its integrated 2X AGP graphics chip from ATI; you can't remove or upgrade it (though you can add extra video memory).

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

Dell ships the OptiPlex with Windows NT 4.0 and covers the PC with a three-year warranty on parts and labor. The firm's tech support lines operate nonstop.

SUMMARY

PRO: Well-designed corporate PC, easy access to interior, excellent monitor CON: Video is not upgradable