Dell Dimension 2200 1.3GHz

WHAT'S HOT: A 1.3-GHz Celeron processor and 256MB of PC-133 memory led the Dimension 2200 to a score of 92 on our PC WorldBench 4 tests--about the same as another system we've looked at with the same configuration, the Sony VAIO PCV-RX640, and 5 points higher that a Gateway 300SE special with the same chip.

The Dimension 2200 comes wrapped in a cool black case. Its matching black keyboard serves as a USB 1.1 hub, with two ports that accommodate low-power-consumption devices (such as mice). The keyboard also includes eight shortcut keys. Typing on it is generally smooth, although the spacebar on our test unit tended to stick a bit.

WHAT'S NOT: The system lacks a game port, but you won't miss it, because it's a poor gaming system. With integrated Intel 810E graphics using main memory, Quake III Arena and Unreal Tournament were unplayable in our tests--even at the lowest resolutions. In addition, the system won't support any game play at 32-bit color depth.

Our test system came with a 20GB hard drive, which is somewhat small compared with many other systems, but for just $20 more, you can upgrade to a 40GB hard drive.

WHAT ELSE: Though the system doesn't handle games well, in our image and document tests, the 17-inch Dell E771P CRT monitor delivered crisp, legible text and rich colors with natural-looking flesh tones. So chances are the system will be satisfactory for undemanding, general-purpose use. The Lite-On 24X/10X/40X CD-RW drive, although not state of the art, is a solid choice for burning audio CDs or doing data backups.

The case is small and cramped, and you won't find much room for expansion with only two open PCI slots and one open drive bay for removable media drives. But if you do need to get inside, it opens up with minimal effort, and the interior is well-designed--the power supply, for example, swings out to create more access room.

The matching black-and-gray Harmon Kardon HK206 speakers deliver crisp but weak sound, in part due to the lack of a subwoofer. The Dimension 2200's integrated system manual addresses this PC's features specifically (rather than trying to cover several product lines, as some vendor manuals do) and has detailed sections on troubleshooting, upgrading, and obtaining technical support.

UPSHOT: This Dimension looks attractive on the outside, has the performance for basic office tasks and Web surfing, and comes with a great price.

SUMMARY

Dell Dimension 2200 PC WorldBench 4 score of 92, 1.3-GHz Celeron CPU, 256MB of PC-133 SDRAM, Windows XP Home, 20GB hard drive, 24X/10X/40X CD-RW drive, integrated Intel 810E graphics using main memory, 17-inch Dell E771P monitor, integrated sound, Harman/Kardon HK206 speakers, network adapter, V.92 modem, minitower case; Microsoft Works Suite 2002. One-year parts and labor warranty; free, unlimited 24-hour daily toll-free tech support. $829 800/388-8542 www.dell.com