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- Inexpensive
- Small
- Decent graphics
- Minimal computing power
- No display
- No DVD drive
Few computers are as inexpensive as the Acer Aspire Revo AR1600. The computer is part of a category commonly referred to as nettops because they use netbook components, including the low-powered Intel Atom processor. Because of that, the Revo isn't really suitable for heavy-duty computing or multitasking, but it might be all the computer you need if you are mainly interested in web browsing, video watching, emailing or word processing.
Aside from an exceptionally low price and a small footprint, the Revo's biggest plus is the use of Nvidia Ion graphics, which gives it a leg up in performance testing over nettops that use other graphics solutions. The biggest negatives are the lack of an integrated display -- something that many nettops have -- and the lack of a DVD or other optical drive. A more powerful version of the Revo, the AR3600 (*Est. $330), boosts things with a dual-core Intel Atom processor and more memory. However, for just a little bit more than that, you can purchase a much more powerful -- and much bigger -- traditional desktop such as the Compaq Presario CQ5210F (Discontinued).
We found several helpful reviews of the Acer Aspire Revo AR1600. The most recent is at CNET and includes the results of appropriate testing. The testing at HotHardware.com is even more extensive, resulting in a report that's pages long. The review at Gizmodo.com focuses on the AR1600's prowess on the video front. There are lots of user reviews at Newegg.com.
| Acer AspireRevo AR1600-U910H Black/White Desktop PC (Windows XP Home) | |
(94 reviews) |
|
Our Sources
1. CNET
When it comes to nettops, CNET's Rich Brown finds few to have many redeeming qualities. The Acer Revo AR1600 is somewhat of an exception, earning it the honor of being "the first Nettop we don't actively dislike." Because it is capable of performing basic tasks and getting users online with "reasonable efficacy," the AR1600 is called an acceptable choice as a starter computer or secondary computer for web browsing and reading email.
Review: Acer Aspire Revo AR1600-U910H, Rich Brown, Oct. 30, 2009
HotHardware.com subjects a preproduction version of the Acer Revo AR1600 to an extensive battery of formal and hands-on tests. Marco Chiappetta makes clear that the nettop is not a substitute for a full-sized desktop PC. However, the small form factor, good performance with video, and low power consumption are enough to earn it an Approved award, and Chiappetta says the processor has enough oomph for basic computing tasks such as web browsing or "office-type" programs.
Review: Acer Aspire Revo SFF NVIDIA Ion PC, Marco Chiappetta, April 28, 2009
3. Gizmodo.com
Gizmodo.com also looks at an early demo sample of the Acer Aspire Revo in this report, which focuses on the video performance of its Nvidia Ion graphics. Matt Buchanan says the Revo is loaded with features that make it a good candidate for use as a home theater PC, and that Blu-ray playback via the Revo is flawless. However, performance with online videos is no better than with nettops or netbooks using different graphics processors.
Review: Acer Revo and Nvidia Ion Hands On, Matt Buchanan, April 8, 2009
4. NewEgg.com
Newegg.com is a good destination for reviews of electronics because its customer base tends to tech-savvy. Following a substantial number of reviews (more than 50 at last look), the Acer Aspire Revo AR1600 has amassed a very respectable rating of four out of five.
Review: Acer Aspire Revo AR1600, Contributors to Newegg.com
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