Editorial Review

Whether you're looking for a corporate, multimedia, or family desktop, Compaq's Presario 5310US is a solid choice. Just look at some of its features: an 8x (write) CD-RW and 12x DVD-ROM drive, a 1.2 GHz Celeron chip, and 256 MB of RAM (expandable to 512 MB). Its price is lower than average for desktops as a whole and lower than average among similarly rated products, continuing Compaq's price-conscious tradition. The product also includes a 40 GB hard disk, a Direct AGP 3D Graphics card, a 56K modem, and a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet NIC. In addition, the Presario 5310US features Windows XP, Microsoft's newest operating system, designed to better support peripherals and games while providing a new user interface. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Good Computer bad buy
I bought this computer in January of 2002. I have had so many problems with it. Every time I would call up compaq I would wait 2-6 hours just to talk to a support specialist then they would transfer me and again i would wait an additional 1-6 hours. I don't have the patience to wait and if you don't have 10 hours a month to wait on hold with compaq don't buy a compaq.

Not too shabby, but.....
it still suffers from some typical Compaq flaws. This is a handy all around household unit with some gaming features that make it more playable than the 5400. Certainly, the price isn't bad either. However, it does not include a monitor, which you'll need to buy separately. The machine's limitations for gamers lie in its limited, mothboard-bound graphics capabilities (a result of the low power NVidia card) and its mediocre ESS sound. There is an aqequate sized hard drive and a pretty good 12X CD burner, so MP3 collectors will not suffer too much. Anyway, like I said, it's a good, basic machine and if that's your interest, you'll be happy with the unit. I should point out that expanding these Compaqs (a lot like their HP bretheren) is a daunting task; things are tight in the case and adding cards and drives is a challenge, so you better like the machine the way you get it, and not the way you envision it upgraded. Lastly, Compaq's reliability has been acceptable, though its service has been less so.

Compaq the Weapon of Choice
I own a lesser of the line of Compaq (I have a 950 mhz). I have tried Windows XP though. I find that Compaq is a very high quality product. It is up with Dell, above Hewlett Packard. I highly suggest that you do no purchase a Hewlett Packard because of many reasons (see my review on it). I like the audio, keyboard, and all the small things about a Compaq. CD-RW write drives are a must for the future. Windows XP is wonderful for multiple users. It has a sign in screen. You can personalize your sign in with things such as your own wallpaper, sounds, pointing arrow, etc. I also prefer Windows above Apple. Apple is only good if you are looking for the most simplicity. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Presario   

Editorial Review

Of all the computers in the Compaq lineup, the Presario 5430US desktopmay well be the most adept. Constructed only of top-level or near-top-levelcomponents, the 5430US easily handles most any application thrown its way andprovides plenty of room for expansion and future upgrades. In addition to thecomponents that come standard with the 5430US, this bundle includes Compaq's17-inch FS740 monitor and IJ650 color inkjet printer, making this option an evensmarter choice for those seeking a state-of-the-art computing experience.Read more

Reviews (2)

Perfect inexpensive PC
I've had the Compaq Presario 5430US PC for 3 years. The only problem was a hard drive that went bad one year ago. Otherwise, the PC has run flawlessly. No Complaints. In additon to the 5430US, I own an HP Pavilion m1070n. Not one complaint. :-)

Would give 0 stars if possible
I bought this pc 2/02. After 4 mos, started slowing. 1) By 8/02 it totally crashed. Lost all data. Recovery CD didn't work. Defective chip replaced. 2)12/02 crashed again. Recovery CD failed. Lost all data. Defective hard-drive replaceed. 3)4/02 totally crashed again. Boot disk unable to boot. Recovery program I'd installed to guard against another failure said it couldn't recognize hard-drive. Problems are similar to when chip failed, so I'm assuming it's the chip again. Rather than fix it again...Bought a new pc, new brand. Avoid Compaq like the plague. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Compaq Presario 5330US is an impressive desktop system well suited to performing virtually any computing task. Consider, for example, its 12x (write) CD-RW and 12x DVD-ROM drives, 1.7 GHz Pentium 4 processor, 512 MB of RAM (expandable to 1,536 MB), and nVidia GeForce2 MX graphics card. In addition to these features, it boasts an 80 GB hard disk, 56K modem, and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet NIC. For convenience and added functionality, the system is bundled with a Presario FS740 17-inch flat-screen monitor and IJ650 color ink-jet printer. Compaq has even installed Windows XP, Microsoft's newest operating system, designed to better support peripherals and games while providing a new user interface. All this for a price that compares well with similarly rated and equipped products makes this Presario 5330US bundle a solid solution to all your desktop needs. ... Read more

Editorial Review

When it’s time to upgrade a home office desktop PC, some consumers make a beeline for the strongest combination of maximum computing power, deluxe features, and minimum inconvenience. If this describes you, the Compaq Presario 6350US is a solid bet to deliver top-of-the-line satisfaction.Read more

Reviews (7)

Awsome computer for an afordable price
This computer has been the best yet.For those who don't like the integrated graphics you might try a PCI graphics card.I bought a PNY Technologies card with 128 memory in it.Works wonderful.I have had this computer for almost 3 years and usually ready to buy a new by this time because they can't handle the newer software.Not this one.Just keeps going and never seems to slow down.If you don't have alot of money to put into a computer, I recommend this one.I do a little of everything with my computer and this one has done it all without problems.

Good PC for the price!!!!
This my 3nd PC, and it's the best one yet. I went to store after store until I got to Circuit City and I saw it on the display for 849.99. Compaq Presario 6000(6350us), Intel Pentium 4 2.4GHz processor, 512MB DDR-SDRAM, CD-RW Drive 40x40x10, DVD-ROM Drive 16x, Floppy Drive, 80GB Hard Drive, Windows XP Home Edition and 6 USB2 ports, System Bus Speed 400MHz I just had to get it now! It came with booket, manual, diagram, compaq keyboard & mouse, Norton Antivirus 2002, Intuit Quicken 2002 New User Edition with financial center, 5 restore discs, Microsoft Works 6 and Money 2002, But then I found out that this PC doesn't have a video card, just integrated Intel Extreme Graphics with 64mb of RAM, limited PCI Slots space (only 3 with 2 open), no AGP Slot, no DVD-RW Drive, no Microsoft Office software, not a lot of software, but it does the job ok. I did some upgrading by buying a TV Tuner card, a sound card, a DVD-RW Drive, and a PCI firewire Card. I think I will do some more research now, and buy another kind of PC next time. One that cost a little more with all the things I want on it.. Compaq no longer make this model.
i agree...lacks graphics
pc is really great if you are looking for a fast processor that can handle dvds, cdrws and desktop imaging. but i made the mistake of buying this and expecting to play games like hitman 2, madden 2003 and grand theft auto 2. hitman is decent, madden is ok, gta is horrible. the intel chip is sub par compared to any graphics board out there, and the sad thing is that this 6350us does not have an onboard AGP slot. very tough indeed. i will have settle for a low end geforce4. :( ... Read more

Editorial Review

Compaq’s Presario 6300 series lineup of desktop PCs includes an impressive range of models offering extensive combinations of performance, expandability, multimedia features, and bundled software. The entry-level Presario 6300 offers a strong mix of budget-priced computing power, expandability, networkability, and graphics and multimedia support for basic home office and gaming needs--particularly for consumers who already own a monitor and speakers.Read more

Reviews (1)

Cheapest computer I could find...
I needed to replace an aging computer.With limited dollars toRead more

Editorial Review

Not all computer users are created equally, and neither are all Compaqcomputers. In fact, the Compaq desktop and notebook lineup is several dozendeep, each model configured slightly differently than the next in order to reachevery segment of the computing populace. Compaq's most affordable machine, thePresario 5400US desktop unit is designed to appeal to those who can't afford ordon't require the capabilities of its midrange and high-end machines or theportability of its notebooks. Slightly less machine than other Compaq computers,the Presario 5400US offers just enough power and accouterments to handle mostbasic personal computing needs at a price so low it may initially look like amisprint.Read more

Reviews (6)

good buy
For the available feature (burner and USB ports in the front)it is a good buy at least for what I paid ...I already own a compaq and quiet happy with the basic needs for my kids (school projects & of course downloading songs).

A Basic Needs Machine
A lot of people feel they need to go out and pay a ton of money for a computer that will do all of the basic stuff most people do.If you are just using a computer to surf the web, do word processing, spreadsheets, and other office stuff then you don't need a high end system.If you want a computer to play graphics intensive games such as Quake 3 and Unreal Tournament or if you are doing video editing, then you are better off looking at other systems or better yet, building your own since most retail system skimp on the graphics card (on-board, TNT2 or Geforce MX instead of a regular Geforce 3 or 4 or a Radeon 8500 card).At any rate, this computer is just fine for the average user.

wonderful
I purched this product Thursday of last week. I purched this product at the price of (Tax and all) 1090.00. At Radio Shack in Muscle Shoals, Al. Not very happy at this time, after seeing your cost! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Some consumers don't mind paying a little extra for the privilege of owning the absolute latest state-of-the-art gear. For the rest of us, there's the Compaq Presario 6016US desktop. Fast and powerful, while just a notch or two removed from the cutting edge, the Presario 6016US is an affordable yet proficient machine that should handle all but the most demanding applications.Read more

Editorial Review

Not all computer users are created equally, and neither are all Compaqcomputers. In fact, the Compaq desktop and notebook lineup is several dozendeep, each model configured slightly differently than the next in order to reachevery segment of the computing populace. Compaq's most affordable machine, thePresario 5400US desktop unit is designed to appeal to those who can't afford ordon't require the capabilities of its midrange and high-end machines or theportability of its notebooks. Slightly less machine than other Compaq computers,the Presario 5400US offers just enough power and accouterments to handle mostbasic personal computing needs at a price so low it may initially look like amisprint.Read more

Editorial Review

Like its slightly more powerful cousin, the 5430US, Compaq's 5423US easily handles most any application thrown its way and provides plenty of room for expansion and future upgrades. This unit is a great choice for users who place high demands on their system, but are willing to sacrifice a bit of power in the interest of budgetary restraint.Read more

Reviews (4)

Just Installation problems...
Im writing here again, to tell you that this computer is actually fast.Despite the missing TV-Out cable and the 2 memory banks being occupied, its fine. Excellent value.
Similar to the 5420 but substituting an Intel, P4 chip for the Athalon chip, both models double the RAM and hard drive size of the 5410 and like that model, include a NIC (network interface card) to make networking and fast access connections to the Internet more simple. It also features a CD burner that's twice as fast (16x) as the 5410. The decision in the end between the 5420 and 5423 will be one of personal preference btwn Athalon and Intel chips, but either one should find few users dissatisfied with the all around performance of their machine. A bit dissatisfied...
I have had the Compaq Presario 5310US, with a Celeron 1.2GHz, and I was very happy with it because it is fast.with 256MB of SDRAM memory, 40GB Hard Drive... This new model was released, 5423US, and since I have had my computer for less than 30 days, I decided to return it and exchange it with the 5423US, which comes with the 1.6GHz Pentium 4, 512MB DDR SDRAM memory, 80GB Hard Drive, 16x writer, 16x DVD, Firewire ports, etc.I plugged it in, and it seems to be slower than the one I returned.I need to do more testing on it, to see how fast it is.My speakers, utilizing the built-in sound card, is making annoying noise when the computer is booting up, which i didn't experience on the Celeron system.The video card, advertised as having a TV-Out feature, doesn't come with the needed cable for you to hook it up on your TV, thus, leaving you no choice but to buy one to make use of it.The memory installed (512MB DDR-SDRAM) makes use of 2 banks on the motherboard, and is actually two 256MB DDR SDRAM modules.Read more

Editorial Review

Whether editing your family photos, balancing your online checkbook, or listening to your digital music collection, Compaq's SR1720NX offers a versatile, strong base for your home computing needs. Focusing on affordability, this desktop has room to grow with two available expansion slots (one 3.5-inch and one 5.25-inch), 2 available PCI slots, 7 USB ports for connecting peripherals, and the ability to add up to 4 GB of RAM. This desktop comes with a large 160 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, 2.2 GHz AMD Sempron 3500+ processor, Lightscribe dual-layer/multi-format DVD drive, and a memory card reader that's compatible with a wide range of formats. Read more

Features

• Affordable desktop PC with 2.2 GHz AMD Athlon 64 3500+ processor
• 160 GB hard drive, 512 MB of RAM (4 GB max), multi-format LightScribe DVD/CD burner with dual-layer support
• Seven USB 2.0, two Firewire, one VGA, one parallel, microphone, headphone, multi-format memory card reader
• Integrated video/graphics card with up to 128 MB of allocated video memory; 10/100 Ethernet, 56K modem
• Windows XP Home edition, SP2

Reviews (3)

Better than Dell
My Dell computer died so I ordered another one ($1,200) from Dell but delivery was in several weeks and I realized I could not be without a computer that long so I went shopping for something cheap that would carry me over and I ended up with a SR1720NX.After using both I now find I much prefer the Presario.I have not used the double side DVD record feature yet but it is nice to have and the LightScribe feature is fabulous.I am so satisfied with the Presario that Dell has seen the last of my money.I am hard of hearing and the Dell is just not loud enough but the Presario knocks my head off with its volume.It is also a good bit smaller than my Dell which is nice.The only thing bad about the Presario is that it did not come with enough memory but I have ordered more.I even like the keyboard better on the Presario; it has a lot more features and seems more rugged.Next time I need a new computer it will be Compaq/HP

good system
very easy to operate for first time users and not over priced. would buy it again. no regrets.

Wonderful!
This product is nice and very useful and value for money is perfect! Well They do sell it now cheaper in Best Buy but that is life!!! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Whether you're looking for a corporate, multimedia, or familydesktop, Compaq's Presario 5410US is a solid choice. Just look at someof its features: an 8x (write) CD-RW and 16x DVD-ROM drive, a 1.3 GHzCeleron chip, and 256 MB of RAM (expandable to 512 MB). Its price islower than average both for desktops as a whole and among similarlyrated products, continuing Compaq's price-conscious tradition. Theproduct also includes a 40 GB hard disk, integrated graphics, a 56Kmodem, and a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet NIC. In addition, this packagefeatures Windows XP Home as the pre-installed operating system,Compaq's FS740 17-inch monitor, and their IJ650 color inkjet printer. ... Read more

Editorial Review

It would be hard to go wrong with a system like the Compaq Presario 5320US. Equipped with a 1.5 GHz Pentium 4 processor, 40 GB hard disk drive, and 512 MB RAM (expandable to 1,536 MB), it has all the basics covered--and then some. For ease of use, improved multimedia, and better support of peripherals, Compaq has installed Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft's next-generation operating system. To enhance multimedia applications and Internet connectivity, this system includes a 12x (write) CD-RW and 12x DVD-ROM drive, an nVidia Vanta graphics card, a 56K modem, and a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet NIC. For convenience and added functionality, the system is bundled with a Presario FS740 17-inch flat-screen monitor and IJ650 color ink-jet printer. All these features at a price lower than most comparably equipped desktops make this system a versatile addition to any home or office. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Don't buy this PC
As of October 23, 2001, this machine is listed @ (dollar amount) but it only comes with 16MB of VRAM, SDRAM (the wildly inexpensive and currently mid-tech sort), what looks to be on-board sound, and only a 17' monitor: this is an overpriced, underperforming PC.While the P4 cpus have high clocks, my 1.5 ghz rdram equipped p4 at work performs about as well as my p3 1ghz at proc intensive tasks like compiling and batch processes.AMD far surpasses most intel procs in most benchmarks.

Wonderful.
This computer is perfect for my kids.They use it for anything.This is one of the best computer we have bought.I don't think we will go back to HP or Apple.Compaq has really put some thought into this machine.The ram is perfect and the prcesser is fast enough to run any game I have.The screen is a perfect size not to big not to small, The only draw back is you don't get web cam.But this is really a five star computer.....

Very great computer
I bought this computer and has been outstanding.I'm new at this and had everything ready to go within 45min.I have been able to do so much with this computer.My only problem is I waited this long to get one.I would suggest this to any one thaat needs a computer.A+ ... Read more

Editorial Review

Of all the computers in the Compaq lineup, the Presario 5430US desktopmay well be the most adept. Constructed only of top-level or near-top-levelcomponents, the 5430US easily handles most any application thrown its way andprovides plenty of room for expansion and future upgrades. In addition to thecomponents that come standard with the 5430US, this bundle includes Compaq's17-inch FS740 monitor, making this option an even smarter choice for thoseseeking a state-of-the-art computing experience.Read more

Editorial Review

Some consumers don't mind paying a little extra for the privilege of owning the absolute latest state-of-the-art gear. For the rest of us, there's the Compaq Presario 6029US desktop. Fast and powerful, while just a notch or two removed from the cutting edge, the Presario 6029US is an affordable yet proficient machine that should handle all but the most demanding applications.Read more

Features

• 80GB UltraDMA Hard Drive
• DVD-R/RW Drive
• 48x CD-ROM Drive
• 10/100 Ethernet Network Port
• 56k v.90 Data/Fax Modem

Reviews (3)

Great buy, Geforce 2 on bard!
This is great computer DVD-R you can store up to 4.7 GB on the disc. Nicely Designed PC for Video Editing
This PC has several things going for it and is an excellent deal. Okay for entry level but the graphics are weak
For an AMD system this one is pretty high end - except for the graphics.Based on the Nvidia Nforce chipset, this system is aimed at entry level users.An otherwise nice machine is hobbled by week graphics.If you even intend to play games, stay away from this machine.Not only is it based on a graphics chipset that is about to be discontinued (can only be found on very low end graphics cards today), but it uses system memory, which is slower than graphics cards with their own integrated memory.So it is slower than your standard GeForce 2!If you are an entry level buyer there are cheaper systems, if you are a power user this isn't for you.Therefore it is hard to reccomend this system to anyone. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Are you itching to own a new desktop PC that pumps out enough performance to run nearly any productivity software, multimedia application, or gaming title with power to spare? Are you eager to protect your existing monitor and speaker investment--or simply a consumer who prefers to choose your own components? If you identify with these shoppers, the Compaq Presario 6330US might be the perfect choice.Read more

Editorial Review

One of Compaq's most affordable PCs, the Presario 4400US desktopcomputer is a solid choice for those who can't afford or don't require the speedand power of a pricey state-of-the-art machine. Powered by a reliable Intel 1.3GHz Celeron processor with 256 KB of L2 cache, 128 MB of 133 MHz SDRAM, and an 8MB accelerated video card, the 4400US offers plenty of oomph for applicationssuch as data management, word processing, Internet surfing, and some 3-D graphicdesign. It is, however, less suitable for demanding 3-D applications such ashigh-end graphics or gaming.Read more

Reviews (1)

good value!
Its pretty sweet. I thought all i would do with it was surf the web. But now i have a DVD ROM installed and put in an additional 256 MB of memory. the memory upgrade is necessary as Windows XP uses a lot of RAM. An additional 256MB should suffice. Read more

Editorial Review

Not all computer users are created equally, and neither are allCompaq computers. In fact, the Compaq desktop and notebook lineup isseveral dozen deep, each model configured slightly differently than thenext in order to reach every segment of the computing populace.Compaq's most affordable machine, the Presario 5400US desktop unit isdesigned to appeal to those who can't afford or don't require thecapabilities of its midrange and high-end machines or the portabilityof its notebooks. Slightly less machine than other Compaq computers,the Presario 5400US offers just enough power and accouterments tohandle most basic personal computing needs at a price so low it mayinitially look like a misprint.Read more