MSI Wind CS120 Nettop Desktop PC

Mar 31 2009 - MSI's Wind CS120 is a good example of both the good and bad when it comes to the new nettop computers. The system is certainly capable of doing basic computing including web browsing, productivity software and limited multimedia. It does all of this in an extremely small package that doesn't skimp on features such as the DVD drive. The problem is that even with its low cost, don't expect it to completely replace what a larger budget desktop is capable of.

Mar 31 2009 - The MSI Wind CS120 is based around the Intel Atom mobile internet device processors. Rather than using the much more common N270 version, MSI has elected to use the slower N230. This gives the system a bit of a performance disadvantage compared to nettop PCs using the faster N270. Of course, the processor is already severely limited compared to traditional desktop processors. It should be able to handle standard internet browsing and productivity software without issue. Some multimedia applications may suffer though.

Speaking of multimedia, the MSI Wind CS120 does have the advantage of including the full set of mini-jack connectors on the back to support up to 7.1 speakers. This may not make a huge difference for most applications other than probably playing back a DVD. At least MSI also included a laptop version DVD burner to provide the ability to both playback and record CD or DVD media.

As with all of the current nettops based on the Atom processor, the graphics are using an older integrated Intel solution. The big problem is that this solution is not able to even handle 720p high definition video feeds without issues. This may make many want to consider waiting for a future nettop platform that can handle this or go for a budget class desktop or small form factor system instead.

The MSI Wind CS120 is extremely small compared to traditional desktop computers and is much more like a mini-PC than even a small form factor cube or slim design. This has the advantage of it being able to be placed just about anywhere. Those looking to use it in an environment for audio may want to be warned that at times the cooling fan can get quite noisy when it has to spin up under heavy usage.

Upgrading the memory is fairly easy to do with the MSI Wind CS120. The hard drive is a bit more difficult to do though.