Better because it bigger (and faster)
Written: May 03 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Speed
Cons: Flimst Design (again)
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| gormly's Full Review: Hewlett Packard Pavilion 8595C (D7491A#ABA) PC Des... |
I have reviewed a lesser model of this HP design and gave it a low rating due to the design and other small aspects. In this review I will be more open minded for HP because this system is not really a ‘new users’ system at heart. It is more of a power users computer and thus some of the problems I pointed out on the lower end models will not apply. So here goes….
Specifications (The low Down on the internals)
Processor – Intel PIII 733
36 Gig Hard Drive
128 Megs of Ram
8 Meg Nvidia Video Card
8x DVD
HP CD Writer Plus (4x Write -4x Re-write -2ox Read)
Tons of Included software
The same Overload of Internet choices (see below)
MS Works , Money 99 and Encarta 99 and some nicely bundled utility programs.
And Basic Financial software.
Excellent HP CD writer software is also included.
Features:
Speed! At the time we were purchasing this computer it was the fastest processor we could get. The system comes with 128 Megs of ram and everything runs on the 133 MHz bus, so the system is definitely FAST! An included DVD and CDRW make it an easy choice over similar competing systems. Great bundled commercial software, DVD and CDRW software make it a well-rounded system.
Strengths:
The HP name. I have always thought highly of HP. HP almost always lives up to a high standard. The parts they use are top notch and solidly built and installed and they back it up with 24/7 tech support.
This computer will last you a long time to come. You have DVD, you have CDRW and you have room to expand and upgrade ability. I never have any ‘real’ problems with HP computer systems. But see below for the overall design flaws of the computer.
Weaknesses:
The big flaw here is as it always has been with this newer HP design. The speakers and translucent case parts are flimsy and can possibly break and crack. Be careful with this system. The other weakness isn’t really any concern to a power user. They bundle so many choices for Internet access that it seems very cluttered and commercial. If you know how, I am sure you will be deleting these as soon as it’s out of the box.
Another weakness is a low end Video card. Although the nVidia is a nice video card, it is now behind the times. Think about an upgrade if you plan on doing some serious gaming or 3D work.
Who should buy:
Someone who needs SPEED! This machine is ahead of the competing models with the same specs. I recommend any one who purchases this machine, clean out the start up programs; it will make this computer a ton faster. If you need the DVD and CDRW, you can’t beat the HP.
Who shouldn’t buy:
New users. Don’t get bullied by a salesperson into thinking you need a computer this fast for the “Internet”, Unless you plan on running the latest games get one of the lower models.
(also if you DO plan on playing the latest games, you’ll need to upgrade the Video Card)
Bottom Line:
This is a FAST computer with all the ram you’ll need for most purposes. If you are a hardcore gamer, I suggest a Video Upgrade immediately. The card installed IS nice but it can’t handle the newest games coming out today. The HP will serve you well as an advanced user, and last for a long time. It is upgradeable so you won’t be complaining about it being ‘obsolete’ 2 weeks after you buy it.
Keep in mind this unit still has the basic design flaws like difficult speakers, flimsy design and overloaded commercial Internet software, but you can easily overcome these problems with some patience and foresight.
Recommended:
Yes
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gormly
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Member: Eric Gormly
Location: Waterbury, Ct
Reviews written: 125
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