Updated 15 Feb, 2012, 6:16 pm IST

REVIEWS / DESKTOPS / DELL INDIA PVT LTD

Dell Dimension C521 Desktop

09 Jun, 2007, 5:00 pm IST | Jayesh Mansukhani | Desktops

For testing the performance of the C521, we used the standard set of benchmark tools i.e. SiSoft Sandra, 3dmark and PCMark 2005. All of these added together form a fairly comprehensive testing suite and will expose the performance of a machine thoroughly.The performance of the C521 was surprisingly good. Keeping in mind that the processor used is a slower dual-core the PCMark score of 4650 is really quite good and shows that despite the Core 2 duo onslaught AMD processors remain very competitive. In our 3d test as expected, the score we received was a rather low score of 1920, which is quite adequate for the low-end Radeon card but rules out any kind of serious 3D-gaming. Yes it will run an MMORPG game like WoW fine... don't expect it to be even able to start F.E.A.R. However since the card is DX9 ready, using it with Windows Vista Premium OS’s versions will not be a problem. It also thankfully provides a DVI connector which will allow you to easily connect a nice widescreen panel and enjoy sharp graphics. Our second test involved testing the media–center functionality of the PC. There were no real surprises here with everything working as advertised. Media center control through the keyboard was quite snappy and overall easy to use.

Overall the Dell C521 is a strictly utilitarian machine. It offers excellent connectivity options, a good specification sheet and surprisingly good performance all at a starting price of Rs. 21,000 upwards. What it does suffer on is the use of a very ordinary DX9 card and lack of user upgrade options.

Keeping in mind Dell's excellent support service, we recommend this desktop to anyone looking for an entry level desktop machine.

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Tags: Dell , AMD , Intel

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