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General discussion

Optiplex GX280 or Dimension 8400

Aug 1, 2004 2:14AM PDT

Our daughter is getting a new computer. As a student she can get a GX280 for less than the Dimension plus get longer warranty/support. Is there any area where the 280 will have less capability than the 8400?
Thanks

Discussion is locked

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Re: Optiplex GX280 or Dimension 8400
Aug 6, 2004 1:48PM PDT

I don't know much about the Optiplex but I do have a Dimension 8200 which is an older model of the 8400. Anyway, my computer has served me well and I would recommend Dell. However, if I were to purchase a new comp from dell, I would buy a 4600 because they deliver pretty much the same performance as the 8400 for a lower price.

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Re: Optiplex GX280 or Dimension 8400
Aug 18, 2004 11:42AM PDT

Just saw this post, hope you get it in time to help with the decision. I personally have chosen the Optiplex GX280 over the 8400 b/c of its business class technology, and the lower price. As both my wife and I are finishing up post degree programs and will have a need for a business class computer in the future it was the best choice. For your daughter neither would be bad, but I would lean towards the 8400 if she gets a student discount (which she will from Dell directly) and will be able to get Office XP at the discounted rate. Additionally the 8400 will be shipped with more software than the Optiplex (businesses buy bulk licenses for this stuff) so she may want some of those. Hope this helps.