CyberPower Gamer Dragon

Reviewers say the CyberPower Gamer Dragon is the best entry-level gaming desktop for aspiring gamers who want a system that can grow with them. The Gamer Dragon comes with a host of options, and you can pay more for serious performance. However, reviewers say the base model, which is priced at an affordable $1,100, offers enough power for entry-level gamers. It includes an overclocked AMD Phenom II X6 1055T processor, 4 GB of RAM, a 1 TB hard drive and Nvidia GeForce GTX 460 graphics. A Blu-ray drive is also included, and reviewers are impressed by the generous three-year warranty.

Even though the base model of the CyberPower Gamer Dragon can't match the performance of high-end gaming rigs, it is a very capable performer. The desktop can handle all of today's most demanding games, although some of the more intensive titles may need to be played at lower resolutions. For example, in PCMag's test, "Crysis" plays smoothly at 1,280-pixel-by-720-pixel resolution, but it is unplayable at high resolutions. Some reviewers say they think the Gamer Dragon's design is rather plain (you can pay more for a flashier case), but they are impressed with the computer overall. Like most gaming desktops, you'll have to pay extra for a monitor and speakers.

Only a few reviewers have tested the CyberPower Gamer Dragon at its base configuration. The best analysis comes from PCMag.com, which tests and rates the desktop. The review also includes helpful comparisons to other gaming-oriented desktops. ThinkComputers.org also has an in-depth review, but it's not quite on par with PCMag.com.