What all computer should be
Written: May 16 '02 (Updated Oct 27 '02)
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Pros: Reputation, Style (depending on taste), Cust service, Delivery, Computer case design
Cons: Expensive compared to others, accessories are even more expensive, short standard support
The Bottom Line: It's an excellent machine. It has its own problems, but pros out weigh the cons. And it looks really great. I recommed this computer to anyone I know.
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| wc201's Full Review: Dell Dimension 8200 Series |
I have been hearing how wonderful Dell is for years, but for some reason, I tried other kinds of computers.
This Dell Dimension 8200 is my 7th computer. I started from the humble Mac Classic. Then, moved to Powerbook, G4 Desktop, Compaq Presario, Custom computer, and VAIO Slimtop. I was always looking for the latest and often fastes possible for the money I can afford.
For my 7th computer choice, two companies came into view. They were Gateway and Dell. They do both customized computers.
I did try a custom computer maker that are not well known in the past. Maybe perhaps that was my mistake. My computer did not have any component problems, but whenever I will have to reinstall my system, I would have to fumble through 10 plus cds to install all programs and files needed plus it lacked a good customer service. I guess what I am trying to say is I as an owner had to try harder to keep my computer in good working condition.
So, Gateway and Dell fit my choice. They both had excellent reputation compared to others.
To be honest, I was leaning more toward the Gateway 700XL. It is, after all, PC World Magazine Best Buy. But, I couldn't stop thinking I would have to see this computer for a long long time. So, the computer style from Dell won me over despite its slightly high cost. And plus, Dell was often either first or second place in various computer magazines.
Goods
1. Style:
I almost think this computer is sexy. All black with some hint of gray. I had some interesting looking computer in the past from the Macintosh G4 Desktop to VAIO Slimtop. I do often favor the look. Gateway did come out with the all silver look, but that just wasn't it for me. Another good thing about this Dell computer is, all their accessorize come in matched color. So, that makes this even better. I guess you can say I am sick and tired to seeing all white boxy computer.
2. Fast Delivery/Well-Packaged:
Another thing that impressed me was how fast Dell makes this computer. Mine came after about 3 days after placing an order. (Later, I found out that physically calling in to clear your credit card speed up the process rather than just wait for Dell to run and clear your credit card.)
Delivery was made by UPS and came in a neat package. When I opened the box, it was suspended inside the computer box with foam cushions. Everything was well labeled even for a beginner. So, hooking up this computer was a piece of cake.
3. Support
When I say support, it actually means two things. CDs and owner's manual that came with the computer and the actual customer serivce.
I do try some crazy softwares. Often causing major problem resulting in reformating my entire system quite often. Maybe because of that, I look for this support more than anything else.
Owner's Manual was almost like Dummy's Guide to Computer book. It was really well written and explained for every level of users. I had many computers before, but never had this good manual. This manual also include common upgrade instruction guide such as adding hard drive or adding RAMs. This is essential for any PC users.
Cds. They come with clear labels. You don't get Cds that tells you this cd came directly from the component manufacturer. Why is this important? I think it just means that the PC Maker spent time looking over their choice of softwares and made much easier for users to install. It's definitely plus for me.
On the same day I received my computer, I have already crashed and ended up reformating the hard drive. First, I called Dell. I didn't have to wait long to get connected to a real person who actually knew what they were talking about. Not some foreign workers sitting in other country answering your question with the impression of I know less than you.(A lot of companies now locate their customer service abroad to English speaking countries to lower their customer support cost.)
However, it was a bit pain to go through so many menus over the phone. Anyway, I used the cds that came with my computer to reinstall the entire system. Each Cds especially for drivers Cds comes with a installer software built in. There is always small explanation of what the software is and what system is this software compatible with. By the way, if you like the Dell wallpaper, you better back it up. It doesn't come with the cd.
Anyway, I ended up reinstalling about twice more for my own fault, but they were much easier.
4. Computer Chasis.
I do love to play around with my computer. However, there is one thing I hate to play around with. That's the hardware especially its chasis and adding and removing stuff. I opned up my computer for adding extra RAMS.
I was suprised how well everything was designed inside. CPU fan has its own air duct to draw heat from where it's most needed CPU.
And its quiet. My previous custom computer was like operating a tractor. It had total three fans. It kept the computer cooled all right, but it generated so much noise. This computer is even quieter than my previous Sony VAIO Slimtop LX800. It suppose to be a tiny computer, but it made louder noise than this computer.
A couple days later I received the computer, I added USB 2 PC Card. Often I would have to unscrew many screws just to get inside the computer. This computer involved just two big buttons; one on top and one on bottom of the chasis. Only one bad thing was you have to put the computer down on the side. Resulting in disconnecting a lot of cables and need some space to work on it. So, no screws to open up chasis.
Once inside, I did not need screw drivers. For PC Card, I could just unhook a plastic PC Card holder. That was it. Then simply push in the card. That was it. I didn't have to do any major installation yet. If I do, I will keep you updated. But my point is, Dell thought very hard about making things easier for its customers and it shows even inside the computer where most PC company could easily neglect.
Bads
1. Price
I cannot simple escape this. For the same amount of money I spent on my computer, I probably could afford a bit better or faster components. However, speed wasn't everything to me. I needed a reliability.
But I will have to admit once again, I chose this computer over style than anything else. If you don't mind a white boxy computer, then go some where else. You can probably save some money.
2. One Stlye of Chasis.
Dell Dimension 8200 is a mid size tower I believe. So, when I added USB 2 card, my PC card slots were all gone. So if I require adding anything else, I probably have to take out something. I do have a separate sound card, graphic card, ethernet card, and the modem card. These are a lot of cards, but most of these are almost standard, so having one addition PC card slot is kinda bad.
3. RDRAM
Expensive. Maybe I am wrong, but from articles I have read, RDRAM did not perform any better than cheaper DDR RAM. So, I loved this option of having up to 2GB of RDRAM, but I was more worried about the cost involved to fill them up.
Another bad thing is upgrading memory in pair. Unlike my previous SDRAM computers, I have to buy memory in pairs. For example, if I wanted 1 GB of additional RAM, I would need to buy 2 X 512 MB RDRAM. You cannot buy just one RDRAM. or you could buy 4 X 256 MB RDRAM. Why is this bad? You might have to throw out your other memory chips if you decide to upgrade in cerntain configuration.
I do also recommed other sources for buying memory. Dell's own is very expensive plus they don't make it themselves anyway.
4. Accessories.
Dell is taking advantages over customers who are just so happy to get a new computer. A lot of people want more options for less. They often buy up front when they buy computer thinking they might save some money. Not so in this case. Dell actually charges the sticker price all the way. You don't get any discount for buying any accessories.
However, if you are not familar with upgrading your computer components, I do recommed buying from Dell. They still won't install it for you. You get a neat separate box for you to install. Why do I recommend you to buy from Dell when I know they charge more? One reason support. In order to receive Dell's own support, you have to buy from them. Otherwise, thinks get very very tough. They resist telling you even the simplest stuff.
5. Cost of Support
Dell do offer some discount in this department. However, it's outrageously expensive. Std warranty is just one year. It's very short. No component hardly go bad in the first year and they know it. Addiing more support means a lot of money. A couple hundred dollar decision.
I guess that's about it.
I know it's very long review, but I don't know how to write this short. So, I do thank you for reading up to this.
Overall, I still recommed this Dell Dimension 8200. So far, I don't regret paying a bit more for the look. I know I will have to see this machine every day for at least a year. However, if there is a problem in the future, I will post updates.
Thanks.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1100
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Other
Processor speed: over 1000
RAM: More than 256
Internal Storage: CD-RW and DVD
Hard Drive (GB): Over 50
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Epinions.com ID:
wc201
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Location: Jersey City
Reviews written: 34
Trusted by: 1 member
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