Buyer Beware

[Deimos01]

So, as some of you may have read, I had some serious issues with my computer. Short story is, I bought a Dell XPS 720 back in October 07 and started having problems about 2 months later. Namely the dreaded nvlddmkm display error. After months of wrangling with tech support and trying every fix known to man my computer finally died. They sent a site tech out to fix it and after a couple more SNAFU's and a final, rather testy, call in to Dell again they were finally able to get me running problem free.

Now I dont really have a problem if something doesnt work right as long as it gets fixed. What I dont like is in order to get the problem fixed I had to get the run-around for 4 months. I paid good money for this comp and I expect it to work and if not, then I expect it to get fixed ASAP. I should say that the tech support guys I talked to were all very helpfull but the have to follow their proceedures which essentially means you get the run around.

Here is the funny part. If you look on the Dell site you see nothing but 5 star reviews about the XPS and Dell. I wrote a review about my dissatisfaction 2 weeks ago and it is not up. Guess Dell doesnt want anyone to know about folks who have problems. So, if you are thinking Dell, then Buyer BEWARE!

[Konovalov]

I just build my own pc's now.

[HunterICX]

Originally Posted by Konovalov

I just build my own pc's now.

Well, I choose the parts and the local PC shop (5 min drive) builds it for me
way better service.

HunterICX

[SUBMAN1]

I've preached about not buying Dell in this forum many times over.

SHort answer is - they have the worst support on the planet.

My examples have included laptops with proprietary Dell versions of ATI graphics cards that require special Dell propreitary drivers, and they have not once updated the drivers for it in 4 years!!! Did I mention you can't use the normal Catalyst drivers on these things because Dell stopped that?

They are the worst support compnay in history. They promised to fix these things 3 times over the years, but failed to do so.

THey call me all the time now, but I just hang up on them. They are nice of course, but you'll get the run-around no matter what.

-S

[Konovalov]

Originally Posted by HunterICX

Well, I choose the parts and the local PC shop (5 min drive) builds it for me
way better service.

HunterICX

Yep, that is another excellent option.

Dell on the other hand is hell for the reasons Subman has explained.

[Blacklight]

In my experience as a former computer tech, stay far away from Dell and Gateway. HP and Compaq are the best deal for the price right now (HP costs a little more but it's worth it). Also, get a warantee extention. Those are worth it in the long run with any big ticket electronic item like a computer.

[Deimos01]

Years ago I had really good experiences with Dell products and their support services. Guess things changed since I bought my last comp through them.

The last rig I had I built myself and it was rock solid. I'll be doing my own from now on.

So lets tally it up:
1) Dodgy hardware - strike one
2) Poor support - Strike two
3) No company integrity as demonstrated by their refusal to post a negative product review - Strike three

YER OUT!!

[SUBMAN1]

Originally Posted by Blacklight

...Also, get a warantee extention. Those are worth it in the long run with any big ticket electronic item like a computer.

Choke choke choke! NOT!!! Those have proven to be worth near 100% profit for computer stores because they almost never get used, and when you try and use it, you get denied 50% of the time!

The only ones that are worth a damn are the accidental damage policies, and even those are questionable.

The rest of your post I agree with however.

-S

[HunterICX]

Originally Posted by Deimos01

Years ago I had really good experiences with Dell products and their support services. Guess things changed since I bought my last comp through them.

The last rig I had I built myself and it was rock solid. I'll be doing my own from now on.

So lets tally it up:
1) Dodgy hardware - strike one
2) Poor support - Strike two
3) No company integrity as demonstrated by their refusal to post a negative product review - Strike three

YER OUT!!

you forgot something

4) OVERPRICED so-called Gaming rigs

HunterICX

[Geno_Mariner]

One of my friend kept arguing Dell is the best computer brand. I told her everything that has happened to my Dell, she still kept saying they're good.

I recommend Compaq, I've had quite good experience with them I had one of their Presario series, I think. Lasted me a good few years until it finally crashed last year.

Getting my current computer was probably the worst decision I've ever made Should've waited a few more days for good computers. *pauses in silence for ANZAC service on telly* From now on, I'll be getting a custom built computer. :hmm:

[les green01]

i had the best luck with hp's did gateway years ago will never do that again