Dell Studio XPS Mainstream Desktop PC

Feb 6 2009 - Those looking to get a high performance system at a very affordable price would do well to look at Dell's Studio XPS. It is one of the least expensive desktops available to offer the new Intel Core i7 processors with their built-in DDR3 memory controller for very high performance. Just be warned that the Studio XPS doesn't share the same level of build quality as Dell's other XPS performance desktop systems and it isn't well suited to games because of its relatively weak 3D graphics.

Feb 6 2009 - Dell's Studio XPS is one of the least expensive desktops on the market to feature the new Intel Core i7 920 processor. This new quad core processor features a built-in DDR3 memory controller that let's it have outstanding memory performance compared to the older Core 2 models and the new architecture provides it with some extremely fast performance. Performance is hampered slightly when the system uses 4GB of memory as it can't take the advantage of the memory performance boost from triple channel configurations.

Storage is typical of the desktop PC market. A sizable but decent performance 640GB hard drive stores all data while a dual layer DVD burner handles playback and recording of CD and DVD media. Those looking for a media card reader should know that it isn't a standard feature and must be added as a upgrade.

Many people are familiar with the XPS desktops being used for gaming. This is clearly a segment that the Studio XPS is not being marketed. It comes with a fairly dated ATI Radeon HD 3450 graphics card with 256MB of memory. This will give it limited 3D graphics performance for games that limit it to mostly casual game play at lower resolutions and settings. Upgrades are available but gamers should look at purchasing and installing a card on their own.

This biggest downside to the Studio XPS is the build quality. Previous XPS desktops have used extremely sturdy steel cases that are very durable yet stylish. The Studio XPS shares a similar case as the previous Inspiron and Studio desktop computers. It has much more plastic, lower wattage power supplies and less space for working in.

The Dell Studio XPS is a great system for those looking for high performance without the high price to be used outside of gaming.

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