Zt Systems Affinity 7304Mi-37 Budget Desktop PC

Oct 29 2009 - For those looking to get a low cost system for very intensive multitasking or desktop video, a system with a quad core processor has a major benefit. Thankfully, the Zt Systems Affinity 7304Mi-37 is able to supply an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 in a sub-$500 desktop PC. The system does sacrifice some video capabilities in order to fit in this processor but it does give a little room to upgrade this in the future as long as you aren't looking to do heavy PC gaming.

Oct 29 2009 - While dual core processors have become common, quad core is still unusual for a budget desktop. Zt Systems has managed to place an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 quad core processor in the Affinity 7304Mi-37. This gives the system a distinct advantage in the sub-$500 desktop market at certain tasks such as desktop video or for heavy multitasking.

Many budget systems tend to come with a large number of trialware applications installed on them. These are a way to get consumers extra software but many of them will not be used by consumers and end up eating system memory and drive space. The Affinity 7304Mi-37 is thankfully free of these applications providing it with a much more sparsely populated desktop and smoother overall experience.

Outside of the processor, the storage devices in the Affinity 7304Mi-37 are pretty much standard. This includes a 500GB hard drive, dual layer DVD burner and a 19-in-1 card reader for use with standard flash memory cards.

Note: This review is based upon the hardware provided. Some units are shipping with some hardware changes based upon available parts with Zt Systems. As a result, there may be some variances in available ports both internal and external.

One of the big issues with the Affinity 7304Mi-37 is the graphics. The system is based around an older Intel G33 chipset with an GMA X3100 integrated graphics. This older graphics option lacks the performance to handle many of the new HD video streams available. It also only comes with an analog VGA connector that prevents the system from being connected to most new HDTVs or digital monitors and used with HDCP video sources. It is possible to upgrade the graphics after market, but the 300W power supply will limit the system from using many of the latest graphics cards designed for high end gaming.