The Best Ever Desktops

Apple iMac (27-inch, 3.06GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, ATI Radeon HD 4670,

Editors' rating: desktops
We rate desktop PCs on a scale of 0.0 through 10.0 (see "What the numbers mean" below). The editors calculate the overall rating from a series of subratings, on a scale of 1 to 10, that gauge key aspects of the product. On the product review page and elsewhere on the Web site, the overall rating is displayed as a series of stars, based on a five-star scale with half stars (see conversion details below). The majority of the PCs we review are meant for the home and can generally be divided into three classes: budget, midrange, and performance. Each subrating is weighted based on its relative importance within a specific product class. For example, a system's performance score counts for less in a review of a budget PC than it does in one of a performance system. In addition, we review the occasional business PC, which has its own weighting system.

The rating criteria with the weightings by class are:
Design
Evaluates the physical design of the desktop PC, chiefly its size and shape. Our editors look for designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Specific features we look for include ports and drives that are easily accessible, as well as a case that is easy to open and close for servicing.

* Budget: 35 percent
* Midrange: 25 percent
* Performance: 20 percent
* Business: 30 percent
* Media Centers: 35 percent


Features
Assesses desktop PC features and their quality, which can vary widely. Some key factors include the processor, system memory, storage, video, audio, communications options, ports and expansion slots, bundled software, as well as components such as the monitor, the keyboard, and the mouse. We look for a system that provides a competitive mix of features for its price.

* Budget: 35 percent
* Midrange: 40 percent
* Performance: 30 percent
* Business: 30 percent
* Media Centers: 35 percent


Performance
Gauges the overall performance of the desktop PC. This rating is based primarily on results of independent, industry-standard benchmark tests that measure performance on typical business, content-creation, 3D, and gaming applications. For more details on the benchmarks we use and our test methodology, see our CNET Labs site.

* Budget: 20 percent
* Midrange: 25 percent
* Performance: 40 percent
* Business: 30 percent
* Media Centers: 20 percent


Service and support
Assesses the company's service and support policies, including the term of the warranty (parts and labor); the turnaround time for repairs; whether onsite service is provided; and technical support via phone (toll-free), e-mail, and the Web.

* Budget: 10 percent
* Midrange: 10 percent
* Performance: 10 percent
* Business: 10 percent
* Media Centers: 10 percent


What the numbers mean

9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.

9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.

8.0 to 8.9 = 4 stars (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.

7.0 to 7.9 = 3.5 stars (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.

6.0 to 6.9 = 3 stars (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.

5.0 to 5.9 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.

4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.

3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.

2.0 to 2.9 = 1 star (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.

1.0 to 1.9 = 1/2 star (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.

0 - 0.9 = 0 stars fall 2009)


Price Range : $1,699.00