The Micro Express MicroFlex 22A isn't for sky's-the-limit shoppers, but it's a wise choice for the cash-conscious who seek versatility. The system comes with just the right hardware to serve many consumers' needs adequately. Though not dizzyingly fast, it provides sufficient power for most apps. The case design is basic, and unfortunately, all of the ports—four USB (two 1.1 and two 2.0) and three FireWire—are rear-accessible only. DVD-RW and CD-RW drives enhance the MicroFlex 22A's multimedia capabilities. The system placed last on our Business Winstone 2002 and Multimedia Content Creation 2003 tests, but the nVidia GeForce4 Ti 4600 helped save it from placing last on our 3-D gaming tests. Remember, the MicroFlex 22A costs significantly less than its competition, making it worth serious consideration.

MULTIMEDIA SCENARIO
Music: () Roxio Easy CD Creator 5 Basic is included, though it requires an upgrade to rip MP3s, so we used Windows Media Player, which burns and rips only in WMA format.

Photos: () Adobe ImageReady 7.0, though somewhat difficult to use for those unfamiliar with Photoshop, lets you alter images in ways unavailable on many of the other software bundles here.

Video: () The system comes with ArcSoft ShowBiz, Sonic MyDVD, and Sonic DVDit! for creating interactive DVD content. Too bad all the USB and FireWire ports are located at the back.

UPGRADABILITY
() You'll find four free PCI slots, two free RAM slots, two free 5.25-inch drive bays, and one free 3.5-inch drive bay. There are also unused RAID IDE ports on the motherboard.

PERFORMANCE
(On a 60-point scale)
Business: 30.6
Multimedia: 33.3

SUPPORT
Micro Express includes a four-year warranty on parts and labor. Toll-free technical support is available 24/7.