Great Choice!
Written: Dec 16 '02 (Updated Aug 09 '03)
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Pros: Great 17" flat-panel, good support available
Cons: None
The Bottom Line: A great system with no weaknesses, and an excellent flat-panel monitor. The system is an excellent value!
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| StoneHound's Full Review: Gateway 500 XL PC Desktop |
8/2003 One year Update:
I still have no problems with the computer. The computer is doing well, still fast and zero crashes ever. About 4 months ago, I bought an extra 512 megs of DDR RAM for the machine, because I saw a great deal. I have a digital camcorder now, and the extra RAM makes video editing a little faster. I enjoyed the 6 months of free MSN and I didn't have any problems with MSN.
Initial Review:
First I have to say that I love the monitor on this computer, it's great! The machine has a good set of components inside, including CD-burner, front and rear USB 2.0 ports, and DDR Ram. There are no noteworthy weak components in the computer. Software is good including MS Works 2002 with MS Word, Money, Quicken (yes, both), Picture It, Roxio CD-burner software, and 6 months of free MSN. In hindsight, I wish I would have bought the front firewire port option.
Setup is easy, with color-coordinated cords and ports. Setting up the included internet service was also easy.
I bought this computer in August of 2002, and paid $1299--I continue to think this was an outstanding bargain for a good computer with the 17" flat-panel monitor. It is plenty fast (2 GHz), and has room for expansion, including two PCI ports, an AGP port, and room for more Ram.
This is my second gateway--the first one I gave to my parents when I bought this one. I have always liked their technical support--fast, toll-free, patient. Also, there are three Gateway country stores each one hour from where I live, but I have never been to one. I haven't had to use tech support with this computer because it has Windows XP, and XP has yet to crash on me. XP is a big improvement over all previous windows versions. After buying the machine, I decided to purchase the extended warranty for $129 tax. The main reason for the add-on was the LIFETIME technical support. I figure if I have to make two calls I will pay off.
Many people are big DELL fans, but I had a horror story with their technical support on a previous job--they simply refused to help me! [8/03--I actually continue to have problems with Dells at work.] Plus, I think they are overpriced. I have come to really like Gateway.
Good luck on your purchase.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1299
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Other
Processor speed: over 1000
RAM: 256
Internal Storage: CD-RW
Hard Drive (GB): Over 50
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Epinions.com ID:
StoneHound
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Reviews written: 1
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