Performance

We installed an Intel Pentium 4 3.2GHz processor, two 256MB Corsair XMS3200LL memory modules, a Western Digital WD360GD HDD (Raptor) and a CD-ROM into this barebone to check its performance level. After that, we added an external ATI RADEON 9700 PRO graphics card to see the benefits of doing this. You can view the results below. To put the things in perspective, we added the results of an analogous “grown-up” system with an ASUS P4P800 mainboard (Intel 865PE chipset). The systems run under Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 1 and DirectX 9.0b installed.

As you see, although the AOpen XCcube EZ65 is slower than the “big” system, the gap is not too wide. Overall, I have to admit that barebone systems can make the big computers step aside, since they have an up-to-the-mark speed and functionality and at the same time boast very attractive small dimensions.

Conclusion

The AOpen XCcube EZ65 is a highly interesting mini-computer. AOpen entered the barebone systems market with a highly competitive product. With its numerous positive trifles, this computer becomes a nice alternative to the Shuttle XPC. The XCcube EZ65 offers you its stylish looks, functionality, high performance, excellent stability and smart design (that makes it easy to assemble the system by yourself).

Highs:

• Impressive appearance;
• Easy assembly;
• High functionality;
• Support of the today’s topmost processors;
• Software monitoring options;
• Support of SerialATA HDDs;
• High stability.

Lows:

• Fragile paint coating;
• Noisy when the CPU is under high workloads;
• Only four USB 2.0 ports;
• No DVI and TV outputs.