 DELL
Desktop Computers
Reviewed By: Mike
Stickler
 Over
the last 10 years I have had more good experiences with Dell
Computers than with any other brand. That said, I do have
some concerns with some of Dell's business practices and
products.
Dell loves to advertise stripped down
low-end computers at extremely low prices. Users who know
better end up spending a lot more to get the system up to
spec. Users who don't end up with with an underpowered
system.
Next problem I have with dell is they
over complicate the process of selecting a system.
Considering the nearly infinite potential configurations I
admit they do a fairly decent job of directing the purchase
toward the system they think the user wants. But sometimes
they simply get in the way of configuring the system you
want. Depending on how much time you want to spend its often
possible to take several paths through the site and each
time end up with the exact same model and exact same
configuration but with four different prices.
You'd think with all those options it
would be possible to get an AMD processor in your Dell
system. Sorry, despite some industry rumors that a change
may be coming Dell is still an Intel only shop.
Last issue I have with Dell is their
recent moves regarding customer service and warranties. Dell
became the largest in the business by providing the best
warranties and the best customer service at a very
competitive price. Recent surveys bear out the consequences
of cost cutting moves on Dell's part. The best reliability
and service in the industry is now only average. Pay
attention during the ordering process. That really good deal
may only have a 90 day warranty, or that company discount
may require the purchase of a three year warranty. Lastly,
be aware when you call customer service be prepared for
thick accents. It's a toss up whether they'll be Indian or
Tennessean.
Considering the above concerns you would
think that I had sworn off Dell systems. The problem is all
the above represents problems common in the industry.
Better systems are available and cheaper systems are
available. Find a vendor that consistently offers both and I
beg you to let me know.
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