I've owned and built several computers over the last 5 years. At work I've used everything from IBM, Dell, Mac, HP, Toshiba, Sony, desktops, laptops, huge mainframes, and the list goes on and on. For home use there is no better deal than the HP series of computers. I have owned 2 and they have outlasted every other computer I've owned. I gave my first one to my sister and it is still running flawlessly after 5 yrs!

The HP 6643 is the best bargain for the casual home computer user with little to moderate computer experience. The setup is extremely easy. Within minutes you will be setup and ready to go. The Operating System and all of the software are pre-installed. It is loaded with at least $2000 worth of software that will take care of most all of your needs from word processing to navigating the internet. It comes with everything you will need to get started, except for a printer. When I purchased mine they were running a $100 rebate on the computer, a $20 rebate on the printer, and if you bought both you got an extra rebate of $50. I bought the deskjet 612c for $119, so after the rebates it was practically free.

There are some drawbacks to owning the HP. If you like to do your own upgrades, and add the latest hardware, you will be disappointed. The HP is very limited in the upgrade department. I was able to add extra memory and a soundcard but that is all the room I have on the motherboard. You will also have to change some settings in the BIOS because it reserves up to 8m of RAM for on-board video memory.

Overall, if you do not have much experience with computers, or you are a first time buyer, I would recommend buying this computer. When I bought my first HP, I had never really used a computer (except for the old Commodore 64). I was so excited and had so much fun, I went back to school to learn as much as I could. I have since landed a job in a field that I love, and am making more money than I ever thought I would. I never really thought about it, but buying that first HP really changed my life...for the better.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): $900
Operating System: Windows
Processor: AMD K-2
Processor speed: 401-500
RAM: 64
Internal Storage: CD-ROM
Hard Drive (GB): 13-20