Top 20 Budget Desktops

SUMMARY

Dell OptiPlex Gn+233 PRO: Fast, with removable expansion slot chassis, integrated ethernet adapter CON: No open drive bays

The OptiPlex Gn+233 does a fine job of representing the low end of Dell's OptiPlex line. Priced at just $2169, this corporate system is quick enough to handle all the spreadsheets and word processing files most office workers are likely to throw at it. Meanwhile, the system administrator can take comfort in knowing that this handsome little desktop PC is designed to plug right in to the company network, thanks to its integrated ethernet adapter. The corporate buyers who purchase OptiPlex PCs aren't interested in getting the nth degree of system performance if it entails added cost or compatibility problems. While its PC WorldBench score of 233 is actually a point lower than that of the PMMX-200­based Dimension XPS M200s at number two, this Pentium MMX-233 is still a very fast performer.

As with all its OptiPlexes, Dell puts the new Gn+233 through more hoops when testing for network hardware and software compatibility than it does with its Dimension line. This system is quite well equipped, including 32MB of RAM, a 3.2GB hard drive with bus-master IDE adapter, an NEC 12X-24X CD-ROM drive, and integrated 16-bit sound. Even the 15-inch Trinitron display is a cut above average: The Dell 800HS consistently rates well in our monitor tests, with easy-to-use controls and a sharp image. And although the Gn+233's basic Altec Lansing ACS 90 speakers list for $75 less than the ACS 290 set bundled with its higher-price sibling (the OptiPlex GXa-266), we actually like the cheaper speakers better.

As with its pricier stablemate, the Gn+233 lets you slide out the circuit board that holds all its expansion slots with the pull of a lever. Reversing the process and reinstalling all the slots at once is just as easy.

The Gn+233 isn't perfect, however. Although three expansion slots are available, the system lacks drive expandability: The somewhat flimsy-feeling desktop case comes with all its storage bays already full.

But Dell's documentation, tech support, and warranty are among the best in the business, which makes the OptiPlex Gn+233 even more attractive.