My previous computer was a mac. It was not able to run the software that I wanted, so I decided for a switch. I went with HP, a brand which I trusted for my HD tv. This computer arrived very quickly and was in front of my doorstep in less then a week of ordering it. Everything that I ordered came neatly packaged, and setting it up was a breeze. Upon starting it up, I configured Vista(first time using it) and was on my way. *A word of advice, let the computer update all the drivers first*. The setup was very easy overall. I use this computer for graphically taxing games and other software, and it can run Fallout3 and Oblivion on max settings without breaking a sweat. The Basic Specs 2.88 Quad core 8 GB RAM 768 V-Ram 50 Watt speakers with subwoofers(A great buy!) 21'5 IN Full HD Display 16:9(Great Image) I gave it a 4-5 on features because there is no option to stick with XP. But Vista is OK so far. Overall this computer is a great buy. Whether you are looking to play games or just need a powerful machine, this computer promises to deliver.
Setup was easy. It said about 20 minutes and that was just about it. It's fast, quiet (except somewhat noisy at startup - not sure what that is), and the only complaint I have is that I'm not spending too much time on this having fun instead of waiting for things to happen.
Features rating: I was a bit disappointed that when I opened the case, the 6 GB of RAM took up all 4 slots. They should have used 3 x2 so I could upgrade without having to buy 2x2 sticks. I know it was a free upgrade from 4 to 6 but...
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I owned an HP Compaq Presario for 4-5 years, and it has served me well, but it was time for an upgrade. Being fond of the HP brand, I decided to stick with it. After searching in retail stores and eventually finding what I believed to be my ideal computer on HP.com, I began pondering if it was worth it. Well, the Presidents Day sale is what pushed me towards a definite yes, and I am nothing short of extremely pleased with my purchase. Let me review...
Ease of Use: I turned it on, followed the on screen commands, and within 30 mins to an hour, was ready to go. Having experience with XP and troubleshooting, I had no problem acclimating to Vista.
Features: I got a basic Elite as far as optional accessories and entertainment hardware are concerned. I have yet to use the Easy Backup feature, seeing as how I've nothing to backup yet. (All my important files are already backed up on an external, Seagate hard drive) My video card came with adapters for DVI, VGA, and HDMI, which was nice. Lightscribe was a nice bonus, too.
Performance: Here's where I'm supremely impressed. I did not skimp on the specs of my new computer... 6GB ram 1GB ATI Radeon 4850 Video Card 1GB Intel Quad Core Processor ...This puppy runs like a dream. From Power-On to playing games, it only takes about 30-45 seconds, and that's including typing in my password. It's run everything without lag or slowdown, including running games set to max EVERYTHING while my virus scanner is running in the background and playing my favorite music in Windows Media Player. Also, when I say games, I don't mean Peggle, but more so F.E.A.R. 2 and TF2. Everything this computer does, it does it quickly and efficiently. I am extremely impressed.
Overall: I've had this computer for a few months now, and I am 100% satisfied with the decision I made to buy this product, and knowing that it's HP, I'm sure I'm going to get many years of good service out of my purchase...my new Super Computer.
