AOpen XCcube EZ65-II Mini Barebone System - Page 8

Conclusion

Comparing the XCcube to a full blown PC, there is no area where it is found lacking, except perhaps only in the case of expansion. Of course, this is the price someone has to pay for fitting all these components into a small space.

Performance wise, this barebones mini system was found lacking in the graphics department, and specifically the integrated graphics adapter. Clearly, the Intel integrated solution cannot be compared with the graphics cards that are available on the market today. Nevertheless, it is a good solution for people that want to use their computer for everyday office tasks, watch movies, and play the occasional game. If you want anything more than that, in terms of graphics performance, you have to add an extra VGA card. You also need an extra VGA card if you plan to connect the XCcube to your TV since the card does not feature a tv-out video connection.

The XCcube EZ65 is very stylish, offers functionality that is unexpected from something at this small size. It is very stable and its smart design makes it easy to assemble the system by yourself. It's retail price is around €240.

And some advice: get it in black!

- The Good

• Small size
• Stylish design
• Complete front panel inputs/outputs
• Good cable assembly in the case
• Good overclocking capabilities
• Copper heat sink and fan included in package
• Temperature controlled fan speed (via BIOS)
• Easy to assemble/disassemble with minimal tools needed
• Superbly illustrated manual/installation instructions

- The Bad

• Limited space for adding AGP graphics cards with large heatsinks/fans
• Average onboard VGA with no tv-out (shared memory only 16MB)
• No power cable included in the package
• Noisy when the CPU is under high usage
• Airflow within the case obstructed with the addition of AGP card