Typical price: £310
What is it: Mini media-centre PC with Intel Atom processor
What we think: Superbly small and stylish, but its lack of raw power is a serious handicap
Compare the Asus Eee Box B206
Asus Eee Box B206 compared to other Media Center PCs
![]() Asus Eee Box B206 |
![]() Acer Aspire iDea 500 |
![]() Eee Top |
![]() Dell XPS 420 |
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| Review date | 16 Mar 09 | 13 Jul 06 | 7 Nov 08 | 17 Dec 07 |
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| Price range | £310 | |||
| Review summary | The Asus Eee Box B206 falls between two stools -- it's not powerful enough to take on other media-centre PCs and can't play back high-definition video as well as many of the cheaper media streamers on the market. That said, for undemanding users who aren't into HD video, it's worth a look Read full review |
The Acer Aspire iDea 500 is the best Media Center PC we've seen. Aesthetically it's inspired by traditional AV equipment, so it'll sit alongside or replace your existing DVD player without looking out of place. It's not very upgradeable, but it's packed with just the right multimedia components to make the most of the Intel Viiv platform Read full review |
It's gorgeous to look at, easy and fun to use, and is also affordable. If you're looking for a second PC for multimedia, Web surfing or general tinkering, we'd definitely recommend it. Keep in mind that it slows down when multitasking, but that's rarely a problem Read full review |
The XPS 420 is fast, well-equipped and looks gorgeous. It's also the first desktop we've seen with a SideShow display. Don't be fooled though -- many of its features are ultimately just gimmicks Read full review |
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| Full specification | Full specification | Full specification | Full specification |
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