HP Pavilion Elite m9340f - Core 2 Quad Q6700 2.66 GHz

Description: The HP Pavilion Elite m9340f - Core 2 Quad Q6700 2.66 GHz is a Core 2 quad-based, mainstream computer. Compared to other mainstream desktop computers on the market, it is relatively inexpensive at around $1,115. This PC comes with 6 GB RAM, and a 750GB hard drive.

Pros: Has a nVidia GeForce 9500M GS graphics chip, which is considerably better performing than some similarly priced desktop computers. Also, this desktop computer has a DVD? RW(? R DL) / DVD-RAM disc drive. Also, the 750GB hard drive installed on this machine is quite big when compared to most of today's PCs. Furthermore, this machine's Core 2 quad based CPU is zippy enough to handle demanding applications, such as database and development software.

Cons: None noted, given available product data.

Suitability: Suited for those who want to balance price with performance. The nVidia GeForce 9500M GS graphics installed on this computer is reasonably fast when it comes to handling 3-D graphics. Store massive amounts of data on DVD using the DVD burner included in this desktop. You can archive videos, images, wav clips, and all the email from your Aunt Wilma onto CDs for easy storage with the included CD recorder.

Value: Overall, this desktop computer's features are in line with its price. This desktop manages to combine class-leading processing power with ample storage.

Suggestions: (1) Using this PC's Firewire (1394) port, you can connect to many digital camcorders and other equipment and rapidly upload data to the computer's hard drive. (2) If you plan to be playing the latest 3-D games, you may want to invest in a more powerful video card from NVidia or ATI, which are popular with the gaming community (requires an open AGP or PCIe slot).