Tuesday February 14, 2012

Image Courtesy Zt Systems
Very few consumers need high performance computer systems these days. Only a few applications will really push the average desktop to its performance limits. Of course, if you do happen to use your PC for video editing, having an underpowered PC can be a real pain. Zt Systems has generally been very good at producing some PCs that work well for those demanding high performance without the high price tags. Does their latest offering through Costco warehouses meet these expectations? Find out in my review of the Zt Affinity 7658Mi desktop.
Monday February 13, 2012

Image Courtesy Systemax
Many serious gamers are likely to build their own desktop system from parts to get the exact performance they desire on a fixed budget. Unfortunately, not everyone has the time or skills to put together a computer system. There are a number of different options for consumers looking to buy a prebuilt gaming system. Systemax seems to be offering a fairly solid gaming system with a reasonable $1000 price tag. Is this a desktop that can deliver a smooth and rewarding gaming experience? Find out in my review of the Systemax SG-125 desktop.
Sunday February 12, 2012

Image Courtesy Research In Motion
It wasn't that long ago that Research In Motion dropped the prices on its PlayBook tablet to $299 to start moving units. This was a huge discount from the original pricing especially for the large capacity models. Now that $299 price only applies to the 16GB version but if you want to pay less it is possible to get a BlackBerry PlayBook 16GB model for just $199 at NewEgg. This tablet uses a 7-inch screen so it is a bit more compact yet still has some strong features including video playback. It had some issues with the software features early on but they have been improving and with the rumored BlackBerry Tablet OS 2 things look much better in the near future. To find out more about this tablet, check out my review from May of last year not that long after it was initially released.
Disclaimer: All deals are those advertised by the retailer in question and may have rebates or other conditions of purchase for the products. Please be sure to read all disclaimers from the seller before purchasing.
Saturday February 11, 2012

Image Courtesy AMD
Intel's released a new performance line of processors based on a new socket design. Ivy Bridge continues to loom on the future for Intel. AMD's much delayed Bulldozer architecture has also finally made it to market. Prices vary widely between the different brands and models of processors. If one is looking to build or even buy a new desktop computer, how does one know if they are getting the right processor? Find out more in my article that explains the various desktop CPUs available on the market.