Dell Dimension 2200 1.3GHz

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.