Built a PC at dell4me - Dell Home Online Store - Easy Site, Prompt Shipping
Written: Oct 16 '04
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Replacement of our primary PC was long overdue. In fact the old system was prone to frequent failure and was lacking in regards to meeting the needs of our oldest daughter (now in High School and slated for several computer classes). My spouse had specific expectations and wasn't excited about an all-in-one package from local wholesalers, nor was he pleased with the pricing at some of the local computer storefronts. Several friends, and a few coworkers, extended their recommendations toward purchasing from Dell. After browsing catalogs that landed in our mailbox, and seeing the Dell banners at Epinions, I decided to visit Dell Home / Home Business Online Store. A few days later my spouse and I made a purchase from this merchant.
Although the catalogs have, in my view, a busy - perhaps overwhelming - appearance, I was pleased that the Dell Home / Home Business Online Store is easy to navigate. The graphics load quickly, even with dial-up connection. There are clear product descriptions (complete with details for those that aren't sure which components they want in the PC: ie hard drive options, or those that lack knowledge about computers). We found abundant information to assist us with purchase decisions. Throughout the browse or shop process, it is easy to realize what the computer will cost and the savings or expense you will encounter via changing the components.
This merchant sells items other than PC's, but our purpose for shopping was for purchase of a PC therefore this review reflects such. In addition to computers and notebooks dell4me.com offers computer accessories, printers and certain other electronics.
My spouse decided to purchase a Dimension 4600. During our purchase visit, the computer and all components were on sale, and 2nd day shipping (a $120. savings) was included. There were a few other incentives, but as we customized our package we realized that there would be additional savings by not ordering the "free" printer or "included" monitor.
Once you have decided which desktop you want, there are package options; select the one that closely matches what you think you want, you'll be taken to a "Customize It" page. This page leads you through lots of decisions, but it wasn't overwhelming, as information is readily available. You have lots of options: Operating System, Operating System Enhancements, Printers & Accessories, Service & Support, Training and Certification, Memory, Hard Drive, Floppy and/or Storage, CD/DVD Drive, Software, Monitor, Video Card, Sound, Keyboard, Mouse, Speakers, Network Card, Internet Options, Modem, and more. Again... these choices were represented well, via graphics and descriptions. And as mentioned, you can see how each option will change the overall package price.
Upon completion of component selections you are taken to service & support options, then accessories, and finally to checkout. As with a salesperson, the site attempts to entice you toward additional purchases. However it is easy to click through to checkout versus having to verbalize and emphasize no, no, no, maybe, well... no. *grin*
Completion of the order was simple and confirmation emails were immediately received. During the order process and at checkout, we were provided a ship date. We also received an email letting us know when the order shipped - the date matched the one supplied during checkout. Our new computer arrived promptly, was packaged carefully, and the charges to our account were accurate.
Payment / Shipping / Tax
Dell Home Online Store accepts: Dell Preferred Account (Offered by CIT Bank), VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. As mentioned, we were not charged for expedited 2-Day shipping (normally $120.00). Residents of Washington State, we were not charged sales tax on the computer itself, but paid a minor amount of sales tax on the included warranty ("tax collected relates to the third-party On-Site Service contract only") - even though we didn't purchase a service agreement.
Final Thoughts
We are pleased with Dell Home Online Store. It was nice to build our desktop system via the comforts of our home. There were no annoying sales staff, yet necessary information was readily available (and you can always phone a representative if needed). It is easy to extend a recommendation for this online merchant.
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URL for Dell Home/Home Business:
http://www1.us.dell.com/content/default.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
Happy Shopping!
Thank you for reading!
©2004 Lisa_J
Recommended:
Yes
What product did you purchase or try to purchase? Dimension 4600
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Epinions.com ID:
Lisa_J
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Location: Pacific Northwest - Washington State
Reviews written: 1010
Trusted by: 667 members
About Me:
Mom, ECE Assistant-Director/Program-Supervisor, Child/Teen Advocate, Dance Parent/Fan, Forever Student
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