Arbico’s Elite i7-2657 MX delivers excellent system-wide performance and a well-balanced selection of components. Like every PC in the chart, it boasts a multiplier-unlocked (overclockable) 3.4GHz Intel Core i7-2600K processor.
In its standard configuration, the Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX PC recorded a staggering WorldBench 6 score of 180 points – and it wasn’t even the fastest on test. This is partly due to the inclusion of a speedy 120GB OCZ Vertex 3 solid-state drive (SSD), roughly twice the capacity of any other in the chart, a brand-new controller chip and support for SATA 6 gigabits per second (Gbps). A 1.5-terabyte (TB) hard drive provides extra storage.
The Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX's nVidia GeForce GTX 570 graphics card delivers smooth framerates in most games, even at full-HD resolution and the highest quality settings. However, hardcore gamers will prefer the GTX 580 seen elsewhere.
Power desktop PCs chart ranking
- Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX
- Chillblast Fusion Omega
- Eclipse Supernova P67i526r697
- Dino PC Maxosaur 2600K
- Mesh Evolution 2600K PCA
At the heart of the Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX is an Asus P8P67 Pro motherboard. It offers a host of enthusiast features, including Bluetooth, four USB 3.0 ports, scalable link interface (SLI) support for multiple graphics cards and overclocking options.
The Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX's 24in Asus VE247H may not be the largest here, but this high-quality display features LED backlighting and three video inputs, including HDMI.
A 10-speed Blu-ray drive is provided for HD movie playback, with 5.1-channel surround speakers (five speakers and a subwoofer) completing the Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX’s multimedia credentials.
The Arbico Elite i7-2657 MX is housed in a Raidmax Altas case, with a mesh side panel and 120mm fans fitted with cool blue LEDs. Matching blue mesh expansion slot covers are an interesting touch. Inside are tool-free drive bays, but minimal cable management.
>> NEXT PAGE: Budget desktop PCs buying advice
Comments