Customer Reviews

eMachines Desktop PC with AMD Athlon(TM) XP Processor 3200+ (T3265)

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

eMachines (owned by Gateway) has the distinction of having the highest out-of-the box quality rating of any of the major computer brands. (That doesn't mean an individual might not encounter a bad component or computer as did another reviewer, but the chances are smaller with eMachines than with competitors. eMachines suffer fewer major component failures according to PC Magazine's recent reliability poll.)

The T3265 features a reasonably fast processor (Athlon 3200+) and a large 160 GB hard drive, with both a CD drive and a CD/DVD burner. It also has a multiformat flash memory card reader. This is an ideal mid-range Windows computer for a home user doing digital photography. The price point is very favorable. Hard to get more machine for less from anyone else. I've been pleased with this as my main home office Windows XP machine.

The cons:
The T3265 is not quiet. It is definitely loader than a more powerful and more expensive desktop that my wife uses for database management and video editing.

eMachine's service and warranty provisions are less favorable with fewer extended warranty options than available from Gateway (eMachine's parent company), Dell or HP. I have not had to use service and generally do my own hardware work so this was not a major barrier for me. For those who don't like to mess with stuff inside the box it might be a reason to pay extra for the service aspect. I'm getting more reluctant to pay for service (e.g., extended warranties) when so many companies have Asian help desks where workers' accents are a barrier to clear communication. Of the majors, only Gateway has exclusively U.S. based help desk personnel. Therefore, focusing on maximum value for the hardware was my priority and eMachines delivers.

If you want less noise or an extended warranty with U.S. help desk personnel, but similar bang for the hardware buck you might consider Gateway's new BTX case computers with next generation cooling technology and lower noise.

Right out of the box, the factory mouse would not work, no matter what I did. So, I tried a Microsoft Intelimouse; that didn't work either. Then, I tried a Logitec cordless mouse, which worked! I then attempted a drive image of the C drive. I tried to use Memorex CD-RW media, but that didn't work. I then tried CompUSA CD-RW media of the same specifications, and that did work. I hate to think where I would be if I hadn't tried these fixes. This is not inspiring for a brand new computer. My only consolation is that the computer was dirt cheap for what appears to be good features. Nothing else appears to be wrong with it, so far. If you buy it, I hope you have better luck than I did.

I recently came into some money, so I went out to look for a computer. I looked at Dell but they had not alot to offer for my 1000 dollar budget. I went to a local BestBuy and looked, i saw this computer and didnt believe the price! When I found out that it was the real price I imeadiatly bought it. It was such a good deal, I had enough money to get accessories for it! The minute I got home I hooked it all up to my old moniter, and, The thing is so fast and easy to use! It comes with a DVD burner too!!! I say that if you are in the market for a new computer, you need to get the Emachines t3265! It will be well worth the money!