Dell XPS Mainstream Desktop PC

Dell's XPS 420 desktop is certainly on the more expensive side when it comes to a mainstream desktop PC, but it does provide a very strong level of performance and a highly customizable configuration to meet the various computer demands. It certainly is a step up from the Inspiron desktops but not as expensive as the XPS 700 series.

2/5/08 – Dell's XPS 420 is certainly designed as a performance platform. The base processor for this desktop system is the Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 quad core processor. This is great for those that multitask heavily or use multithreaded applications. Of course, users can upgrade to the faster quad core or even dual core processors, but this quickly drives up the cost of the system. It is matched up with 3GB of PC2-5300 DDR2 memory that lets the system run Vista without any issues.

Storage is just average in the base configuration. The 500GB hard drive provides plenty of storage space, but isn't necessarily any bigger than what other companies are offering. Dell does offer many driver configurations with data redundancy or performance, but all of them tend to add to the price tag quickly. A standard dual layer DVD burner is included for handling CD and DVD media.

For the version of the XPS 420 I had to examine, it came with an ATI Radeon HD 2600 XT graphics card. While the card is acceptable for most video and basic 3D, those wanting to use it for gaming will find its short comings quickly. Dell also offers several GeForce graphics cards that offer higher 3D performance, but once again at increased cost.

One really nice inclusion with the XPS 420 though is the Adobe Elements Suite. This includes the Photoshop Elements 6.0 and Premiere Elements 4.0 applications for photo and video editing capabilities. Both of these programs are multithreaded to showcase the quad core processor and are excellent applications that are easy to use. Definitely worth while applications that many companies overlook for cost savings.

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