Why Buy a Computer for Gaming?

You may play a fast–paced game with detailed graphics where split–second decisions mean a win or a loss, but if your computer isn’t up to par, all is lost. A gamer is only as good as their computer. Gaming computers are built to process huge amounts of information while playing online role–playing games or first–person shooters. These power PCs come with high–end graphics cards, lighting fast CPUs and even liquid cooling.

Gaming computers are equipped with numerous ports including USBs and FireWire ports on the front of the tower. This makes it easy to plug in all your peripherals including joysticks, steering wheels and other gaming devices.

These are not your typical black box desktops. Gaming computers incorporate style and portability. Many towers have transparent sides, neon lights or innovative designs so they look as good as they perform.

What to Look for in a Gaming Computer

Gaming computers have high–end graphics cards, processors and lots of RAM—those components needed to enhance your gaming experience. When considering a gaming computer you should carefully evaluate your needs. Most manufacturers provide individual customization, so you can get a desktop that will fit your gaming style and budget.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate gaming PCs.

* Processor – A fast CPU, or processor, will prevent lags in large or complex games like first person shooters or MMORPGs (massively multi–player online role–playing games). Some systems have dual core processors for hard–core gaming.

* Memory – A large memory allows the computer to quickly access frequently used information or programs. This is critical for gaming. A gaming PC should have between one and two GB of RAM memory and a sufficient hard drive.

* Video/Audio – A game is only as good as the graphics card supporting it. Many games have life–like, real–time images that require a high–end graphics card. Most computer manufacturers allow you to upgrade your graphics card. The sound should be a clear as the image.

* I/O Device – Some computers come with various peripherals including a mouse, keyboard, speakers and a monitor while others don’t. This may or may not be important depending on the buyer. Additionally, some gaming systems come with uniquely designed towers with sleek cases and neon lights.

* Value/Price – In this review, we looked for computers under $2000. The leading companies are value oriented—providing a lot of computer for a good price.

* Support/Warranty – The first–class manufacturers provide quality help and support through email, phone and online chat. They also provide practical warranties at no additional cost.


The Gateway FX540S is awarded the “TopTenREVIEWS Silver Award” and comes complete with an Intel Core 2 Quad processor and a 500 GB hard drive.

Gateway is an experienced company that has been around long enough to know what gamers want—a fast PC, a good graphics card and the hardware to create a truly realistic gaming experience. This computer package is still under $1500.





Gateway FX540S

Version: FX54

overall ratings


processor

The FX 540S comes standard with an Intel 2.4 Core 2 Quad Q6600. This processor runs at 2.4 GHz and has a front bus speed of 1066 MHz. Whether you play World of Warcraft, Lineage or any other demanding game, this Core 2 Quad will be up for the task.

Memory

The Gateway FX 530XV, unlike many other gaming PCs in this price range, comes standard with 3GB of RAM. This much RAM allows you to play your favorite game and perform other tasks, like running security software, at the same time.

Video/Audio

This system comes standard with an NVIDIA GeForce 8600GS 256 MB Dual DVI–Dual Link w/ HDCP and TV out. In simple terms—this card will provide good graphics during the most intense battles.

The included sound is the same type as many in the industry and will provide good sound regardless of what is shooting at you.

I/O Device

The FX540S features a media card reader and a CD/DVD RW, so you can play and burn CDs and DVDs. Also included are speakers, a mouse and a multimedia keyboard. You can connect your peripherals through the ten USB ports and three FireWire ports.

Value/Price

The Gateway FX 530XV is listed at $1319.99 with no upgrades and not including shipping and handling. This package includes everything you need to get started and is a good buy.

Support/Warranty

Gateway comes with a 1–year parts and labor warranty and the good customer service options. You can reach customer support through email, by phone or get instant online service through live chat. We used the live chat a couple of times, and only had to wait about 30 seconds.

Summary:

Gateway is a well–known name in the computer industry and the FX540S will take care of your gaming needs at an affordable price.

Below are some screen shots of Gateway