Dell Dimension 2350

WHAT ELSE: Running a 2.4-GHz Pentium 4 and 256MB of DDR266 SDRAM, the Dimension turned in a PC WorldBench 4 score of 110--about average for a PC with this processor and amount of system memory.

The 2350's black case is accented with a midnight-gray face panel, similar to other Dell desktops. The model does not have the easy-open, hinged case and tool-less servicing of the more expensive Dimension lines, however. To open it, you undo a large thumbscrew, pull up on an L-shaped lever, and lift off the side panel. Inside the system are the old-style traditional bays and slots--you'll have to get out your screwdriver to change components.

Dell's mouse and keyboard are standard issue. The two-button mouse lacked a scroll wheel, while the sturdy keyboard had no hot-keys. And the regular keys felt too springy when we were typing. The system's documentation, on the other hand, is top notch, offering a wealth of information. It includes a well-designed setup poster and a model-specific manual dedicated to servicing and to troubleshooting basic problems.

The bundled Harman-Kardon HK 206 two-speaker set produced fine sound, thought bass notes were weak and trebles sounded a tad thin at high volume.

UPSHOT: A utilitarian system with modest performance and a fine suite of productivity software, this Dimension is a good fit for small offices or homes running basic computing tasks.