Dell OptiPlex GX1 400

Dell OptiPlex GX1 400

The Dell OptiPlex GX1 400 is the top corporate PC on our power chart. This quick $2420 midtower NT 4.0 machine features integrated remote management hardware, an easy-to-access interior, and an above-average (for comparable systems) PC WorldBench 98 score of 244. Dell's reliability and service scores make the OptiPlex GX1 400 a great addition to any corporate IS manager's shopping list.

The OptiPlex's modular case design allows every part of the system to swivel, glide, or swing open for easy access. To remove the cover, you simply 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 mounted on a separate chassis slide out as you press a lever--no scraped knuckles here. The power supply pivots upward to make RAM slots and the motherboard readily accessible.

Unfortunately, there's no AGP slot, so you can't upgrade the integrated AGP graphics with an AGP graphics board later on. But in general, upgrades should not enter the picture for a while, thanks to the hardware Dell includes. The 6.4GB hard disk suffices for most uses, though we're starting to see much larger drives on other top-end systems. Dell's bundled UltraScan 1000HS monitor, one of the best 17-inch Trinitron displays currently available, delivers excellent image quality.

Dell ships the OptiPlex with the Windows NT 4.0 operating system, offers a three-year warranty on parts and labor, and provides 24/7 tech support.

SUMMARY

PRO: Attractively designed corporate system, easy access to interior, excellent monitor CON: Integrated graphics chip