Dell OptiPlex GX1 400

Dell OptiPlex GX1 400

Up one notch from last month, the Dell OptiPlex GX1 400 is the new number one Best Buy on our power chart. This $2145 corporate-oriented midtower features integrated remote management hardware and an easy-to-access interior, and logs an impressive PC WorldBench 98 score of 244. Dell's high reliability and service scores should clinch a spot for the OptiPlex GX1 400 on 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. Removing the cover is 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 mounted on a separate chassis slide out as you press a lever--no scraped knuckles here. The power supply pivots upward and provides easy access to RAM slots and the motherboard. Unfortunately, however, there's no AGP slot, so you won't be able to upgrade the integrated AGP graphics with a higher-end AGP graphics board in the future.

But in general, upgrades shouldn't enter into the picture for some time, thanks to the hardware Dell already includes. The 6.4GB hard disk suffices for most uses, but all the other Best Buys this month come with 10GB. 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 and covers the machine 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 small hard drive, no AGP slot