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Dell and HP Gaming
Comparison
Because Dell has so many machines to offer in their gaming line, it would be a bit unfair to compare the two companies on the topic of choices. So, I'm going to only compare Dell's XPS 720 with the HP Blackbird 002.
CPU
Both systems offer a similar selection of processors, but Dell offers one more with the Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770, which is currently Intel's fastest processor. What this tells me (beside the obvious) is that the Dell supports a 1600MHz FSB, so upgrading this machine to future 1600MHz processors shouldn't be a problem.
RAM
The XPS 720 offers up to 4GB of Corsair Dominator DDR3 SDRAM 1333MHz overclocked to 1600MHz, while the Blackbird 002 only offers 4GB of 1066MHz CORSAIR PC2-8500 DDR2 SDRAM. Dell clearly offers the faster option here.
Graphics cards
Both machines offer very similar graphics options. Both offer SLI and Crossfire and have similar offerings in the very popular Nvidia 8800GT, but only HP offers dual 8800GTXs and ULTRAs. Dell does offer dual 9800GX2s, though. What HP really shines on in this category is GPU liquid cooling, which Dell does not offer at all.
AGEIA PhysX
HP wins in this category because Dell doesn't offer one. Since few games actually support this card, this is not a huge plus, and you could easily throw one into the Dell after you buy it.
Sound
The XPS 720 comes standard with the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeGamer Sound Card, while HP comes standard with on board sound. HP does offer the same card for $99 and the Creative Audio Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeGamer Fatal1ty Professional for $150, so for those who want great sound, HP has got your back. However, there is nothing stopping you from throwing the same card into the Dell.
Hard drives & RAID
Both Dell and HP have RAID options (RAID 0 and 1) but HP has the most offering up to 4.5TB in RAID-0 and up to 1.5TB in RAID-1. HP also offers the most storage with up to 5TB while Dell only offers up to 3TB.
Real Time Pricing: