The Bottom Line
Feb 7 2012 - Just looking at the specs, the Cyberpower Gamer Ultra 2104LQ seems to be a pretty solid gaming system. The problem is that the new AMD FX processor is a bit too radical in its design to offer the same level of performance with its double the number of available processing cores as a similarly priced Intel based system. Sure, it may be corrected a bit once Windows 8 comes out, but that is still many months away and may not prove to add much. At least the system is designed well for those that are willing to upgrade their system.
Pros
- Decent Graphics Card For Gaming
- Easy To Work In Case For Upgrading
Cons
- AMD CPU Performance Falls Behind Similarly Priced Intel Offerings
- Does Not Come With Media Card Reader
Description
- AMD FX-8120 Eight Core Desktop Processor
- 8GB PC3-10600 DDR3 Memory
- 1TB 7200rpm SATA Hard Drive
- 24x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- AMD Radeon HD 6850 Graphics Card With 1GB Memory
- 7.1 Audio Support
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Two USB 3.0, Eight USB 2.0, HDMI, 2 mini-DisplayPort, Two DVI
- Windows 7 Home Premium
Review - Cyberpower Gamer Ultra 2104LQ
Feb 7 2012 - Cyberpower has decided to use the new AMD processor for the Gamer Ultra 2104LQ desktop system. The AMD FX-8120 offers an amazing eight processor cores compared to the typical four cores found in equivalent priced Intel CPUs. Unfortunately, this setup is done in processor pairs and in a method that isn't typically addressed in Windows software currently. The result even with the various patches available right now means that performance typically still falls below what can be achieved by Intel's Core i5-2500 which can be found at the same price point. There are a few areas where it will outperform it but most applications still aren't designed for more than two processors. The processor is matched up with 8GB of DDR3 memory that should provide a smooth overall experience.
Storage features on the Cyberpower Gamer Ultra 2104LQ is pretty typical of desktops found for just under $1000. It uses a one terabyte hard drive that provides plenty of space for anyone looking at a gaming system. It spins at the traditional 7200rpm rate which gives it better performance than most consumer classed systems that focus on the newer green drives. A dual layer DVD burner handles all playback and recording of CD or DVD media but more software is being distributed digitally so it isn't as vital for gaming rigs. There are two USB 3.0 ports available for high speed external storage options if you don't want to deal with working internally for upgrades. Unlike most consumer desktops, it does not come with any media card reader for flash cards.
Since the focus of the Gamer Ultra 2104LQ is on gaming, the graphics system is pretty important. The AMD Radeon HD 6850 is a good middle of the road graphics card that offers a decent level of performance. It should be able to drive many games up to the 1920x1080 resolution typical of many monitors today but it won't offer super high detail levels or many filters such as anti-aliasing on many newer games. Part of this is due to the 1GB of DDR3 memory. Now, those looking to add some extra performance will be pleased that the system that comes with a 700 watt power supply. This will allow the system to run a single high performance graphics card or allow a second AMD card to be installed in a CrossFire setup for extra performance in compatible games and applications.
In fact, upgrading potential for the Gamer Ultra 2104LQ is probably one of the best overall features. The system offers a very clean internal setup thanks to the Cooler Master HAF 912 desktop case and the cabling setup. The CPU is also cooled by an self contained liquid cooling setup that leaves the four memory slots easily accessible for adding more memory. Similarly, the motherboard slots and drive bays are all very easy to work with which is great for gamers that want to keep up with new requirements.
Overall, the Gamer Ultra 2104LQ is a decent system. The problem is the new AMD processors have a few too many problems that prevent them from being a great platform currently. Many of these issues may be addressed when Windows 8 is released later in the year but buying hardware for something that is months out is not always a wise investment.
