The Bottom Line
- Dual Core Processor Good for Multitasking
- Full Gigabyte of Memory
- Includes Monitor
- Integrated Graphics Lack 3D Graphics Power
- Media Center OS Without Appropriate Hardware
Description
- Intel Pentium D 920 (2.8GHz) Dual Core Processor
- 1GB PC2-4200 DDR2 Memory
- 200GB 7200rpm SATA2 Hard Drive
- 16x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- Intel High Definition Audio with Stereo Speakers
- Intel GMA 950 Integrated Graphics with 128MB Shared Memory
- 19" Gateway FPD1965 LCD Monitor
- v.92 56Kbps Modem and 10/100 Ethernet
- Seven USB 2.0 Ports, One FireWire Port and 9-in-1 Card Reader
- Windows Media Center, Office 2003 Basic, McAfee Internet Security
Guide Review - Gateway DX300X
2/21/06 – Gateway's DX300X desktop is powered by the new Intel Pentium D 920 (2.8GHz) dual core processor. There is very little difference in performance between this and the previous 820. Both run very well when multitasking and are a bit slower at single applications than comparable Pentium 4 processors. The system comes with a full gigabyte of PC2-4200 DDR2 memory that lets the system run smoothly in all applications.
Storage on the DX300X is very good. The system comes with a very large 200GB hard drive that should provide plenty of space for storing items like digital video, music and photographs. In case additional storage is needed, it also comes with a 16x DVD+/-RW dual layer DVD burner that can create data, music or movie DVDs and CDs.
Graphics wise the DX300X is a bit mixed. Instead of including a dedicated graphics card, the DX300X comes with the Intel GMA 950 integrated graphics. This is fine for basic computing but lacks much performance for 3D applications. Thankfully the system does include a PCI-Express graphics slot for upgrading the graphics. In addition, the system comes with a large 19” LCD panel to make it a complete system.
In what seems to be a trend by manufacturers, Gateway has also included the Windows Media Center operating system with the DX300X. There isn't anything wrong with this as is does add a number of features over XP Home, but many of the features cannot be used without additional hardware such as a TV tuner and remote control.
