Apple iMac (20-inch, 2.0GHz)

Description: The Apple iMAC (20-inch, 2.0GHz) is a Core 2 Duo-based, general-purpose computer. Compared to other consumer level desktop computers on the market, it is midpriced at around $1,210. This PC also comes with a 20-inch flat panel display that supports 1680 x 1050 resolution. This desktop comes with 1 GB RAM, and a 250GB hard disk.

Pros: Has a DVD? RW(? R DL) disc drive, which is more preferable than some similarly priced desktop computers. Also, this desktop computer has a 20-inch screen, which is somewhat larger than some similarly priced desktop computers. Also, the 250GB hard disk installed on this machine is rather large when compared to the average desktop. Furthermore, this machine's Core 2 Duo based processor is powerful enough to handle demanding applications, such as the latest games. However, the all-in-one design of this unit is good feng shui.

Cons: None noted, given available product data.

Suitability: A mainstream desktop computer, suited for basic computing, plus digital photo sorting, audio appreciation, and entertainment applications. Store massive amounts of data on DVD using the DVD writer included in this desktop. You can archive videos, images, mp3 clips, and all the email from your parents onto CDs for easy storage with the included CD recorder. The all-in-one design of this unit makes it more space efficient -- great for cramped living spaces.

Value: Overall, this desktop computer's features are in line with its price. This PC manages to combine class-leading processing power with ample storage. Note that the purchase price also includes a 20-inch flat panel display. ( Click here to see current prices and the latest reviews.)

Suggestions: (1) Using this PC's Firewire (1394) port, you can connect to many digital camcorders and other equipment and rapidly upload data to the computer's hard drive. (2) If you plan to be playing the latest 3-D games, you may want to invest in a more powerful video card from NVidia or ATI, which are popular with the gaming community (requires an open AGP or PCIe slot). (3) For help in deciding if this is the right desktop for you, see CNET's buying guide for desktops .