4 September 2017

REVIEW: Dell Vostro 3000 Desktop Computer

Power on your desk.

You might only use them while at work or at school, but there is a hell of a lot to be said for a decent desktop computer. More comfortable than leaning over a smaller laptop screen, and easily customisable, desktop PCs are the go-to choice for those who need powerful processing for design, editing, and gaming, and often with a cheaper price tag than the equivalent laptop. To that end, Dell popped one of their compact desktop computers over to us to test, and also an accompanying monitor. We review the Dell Vostro 3000 Desktop Computer, as well as the Dell UltraSharp 25 Monitor (and also a desk, but more on that later).



If the words Dell and Vostro seem familiar to regular visitors, that is because we previously reviewed a laptop from the Vostro line, the 14 5000. Just like that laptop, which featured fairly standard specs on the inside, the version of the Vostro Desktop we received was also similarly everyday. However, unlike the laptop, the desktop has been designed to be cracked open so users can increase the likes of the RAM and hard drive, and also add specialist units into the slots at the rear.


The computer itself is actually refreshing compact at just 35cm tall and 29cm deep. The aesthetics might be very much in the 'black box' school of design, but although this is a desktop computer, you probably won't want to put it on your desktop. And if you are consigning it to the floor under your desk, or to a shelf out of the way, you're well placed with several different types of connection ports, meaning you'll hardly ever have to reach under to touch it.


Obviously HDMI out is present, as is VGA and an audio jack. There are four USB 2 ports on the rear, and two USB 3 ports on the front, right by the 5-in-1 card reader slot, and the optical drive. Yes, an optical drive! Yay! If you've been using modern laptops for the past few years, like we have, the sight of an optical drive is quite a throw-back. But, as the Dell Vostro 3000 Desktop Computer has the room and power for one, why not, eh?


However, you're not going to get much work done on it by itself, and that is why Dell were kind enough to also send us the perfect companion to the Dell Vostro 3000 Desktop Computer, the Dell UltraSharp 25 Monitor. Again, if that sounds familiar, its because we recently reviewed the behemoth that was the Dell UltraSharp 27" 4K Monitor. This smaller screen is essentially the same product, but with an obvious reduction in both size and resolution.


Check our review of the 27" 4K product, because although the 25 can't reach the much coveted 4K resolution, it is exceptionally good, maxing out at 2560 x 1440. This means that everything looks crisp, clear, and gorgeous, from your spreadsheets to your media files. Also, thanks to the USB ports you can use it like a USB hub, with two USB 3 slots waiting for you on the underside of the monitor. That'll save you reaching for the ports on the computer itself.


The Vostro 3000 and the UltraSharp 25 make excellent bedfellows, thanks to their easy compatibility, matching colouring and styles, and decent price. But all this is moot if you don't have a desk to set them both up on. That is why we decided to check out a single desk from Kit Out My Office from their selection of UCLIC modular desks. These desks all feature similar components, from the legs, to the work surfaces, allowing you to pick and choose the style and colour you need.


We went for the Aspire Rectangular Desk, one of the simplest and cleanest styles available, and one that perfectly suited a brand new desktop computer set up. The Aspire features metal 'A-shaped' legs, a wooden modesty panel, adjustable feet, and a choice of top colours (we went for walnut). Delivered flat-packed, the desk is so simple it took only five minutes to build. Its a sturdy thing, and the 80cm width is more than enough for comfortable and roomy work space.


So, three items that work seamlessly well together. If you need an affordable and versatile computer, be it for a home office or just for fun, the Vostro 3000 is a sound choice, backed up by the UltraSharp 25 Monitor. And while you're at it, check out Kit Out My Office to find the perfect desk to put them both on.

Dell Vostro 3000 Desktop Computer from £400 from www.dell.com

Dell UltraSharp 25 Monitor £305 from www1.euro.dell.com

UCLIC Aspire Rectangular Desk £119 from www.kitoutmyoffice.com




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