Joined on 08/03/03
Amazing Value
Pros: Packaging: This item came was packed in the original Phanteks case box, which was packed into another box with additional foam, keyboard and mouse. Packaging gets an A+ Instructions: The "Read Me First" instructions were very complete and professional looking. I realize that setting up a computer isn't rocket science, but there are some folks out there who will definitely benefit from the instructions included with this PC. They also include a free year of McAfee upon registration and a Zalman ZM-HPS200 Gaming headset if you post a review for the product...guess what I'll be doing next? System: After removing the packaging foam and inspecting everything inside the case, I fired it up I have not been disappointed at all. This thing is quiet, so quite that it is hard to tell it is running when you are in the room. I've only been able to play some GTA5 so far, but at the highest graphic levels, this thing doesn't even act like it working that hard. The case is really nice and has some great built in cable management. I'm not sure why they installed the SSD in the lower bay with the HDD since it could have been installed in one of the two included SSD bays on the back side of the internal divider plate. You can also install up to 4 additional HDD holders from Newegg. The case was very well thought out. My only beef with it and this is a true first world problem complaint that it shows fingerprints very easily. My system came with everything included in the pictures with the exception of the following: - Graphics Card was a EVGA GeForce GTX 1070 Blower vs. the MSI GeForce GTX 1070 Founders Edition - The Motherboard is a MSI Z170-A PRO vs. the MSI Z170A PC MATE No heartburn for either of these changes and the motherboard seems to have better reviews than the PC Mate. As with George's review, I stumbled onto the LED button by accident when I was positioning the computer. Overall this thing has met or exceeded all my expectations.
Cons: First world problems... - As stated above, fingerprints - Doesn't come with the additional HDD mounts
Overall Review: I would buy again, but hoping I don't have to. I used to custom build all my computers but work and life just doesn't give me that opportunity any longer. Hope to get many great years out of this machine.
Good TV, Sub Par Monitor
Pros: It has a great TV picture Very good selection of input ports
Cons: Yes, you can connect it to a computer, but it is not a monitor no matter what Newegg says. I bought this to do graphics for my business but it isn't usable at all. I have been working to adjust the colors on this thing for a month and can't get them to show properly. I can't get any colors to match properly to what is actually printed out. I've swapped monitors and have no problems matching colors with my HP and Dell monitors.
Overall Review: So bad, I bought the ASUS 23" that was on sale this weekend. This unit will be downgraded to a TV like it was meant to be in the first place. I regret everything about this purchase.