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ASUS M32AD Desktop PC i3, 8GB, 1TB, Win 10 - Amazon - USD $354.99 + $7.98 Shipping (~AUD $500)

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Further revision. Both come with 8gb and 1TB drive. The i5 option does not ship to Australia.

ASUS M32AD Desktop i3

  • Intel Core i3-4170 Dual-Core 3.7GHz processor
  • USD$354.99 + $7.98 - less Amex discount

ASUS M32CD Desktop i5

  • Intel Core i5-6400 Quad-Core 2.7 GHz processor (turbo to 3.3GHz)
  • USD$429.99 + $7.98 - less Amex discount

I'm not going to put AUD because I'm going to assume you are getting screwed on the conversion with your Amex. Also the AUD/USD seems to be back up at 73c right now.

I'm looking at building a server for home that is half media PC, half VM, half linux machine and half TS-140 deal that I missed out on. I think this might do it.

If anyone can find some internal photos, please comment below. I'm hoping I can put some large drives and ideally 32gb of memory. I can find nothing from intensive googling. There is a possibility it is 110V and may need a different PSU.

Price History at C CamelCamelCamel.

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closed Comments

  • +1

    Or i3 for 100 bucks less but this is the better buy

    • +1

      funny it wasn't available when I started typing. Fixed.

    • +1

      For most the i3 probably is a better buy, this is just a basic use system and both an i3 and i5 are more than capable for basic use. The deciding performance factor in this system is the slow hard drive.

      • I've updated the post as the i3 is still available for $8 delivery.

  • +2

    Is it 110V or auto voltage?

  • +9

    That's a lot of halves :-)

    • Lol I was about to comment on that. Should have said quarter than halving everything.

  • +1

    This is a damn good deal, considering Centrecom will sell you this http://www.centrecom.com.au/centre-com-system-budget-i5 for $569. That comes with a way older CPU, much worse intergrated graphics, no WiFi or BT (let alone AC and 4.0) and to top it all off, it comes with no OS.

  • +13

    $7.98 shipping is unreal

  • +2

    My only concern is whether the warranty is valid in Australia or not.

    I know Amazon are pretty good with shipping back etc but would be easier if Asus Australia honoured the warranty here

    • Asus always offer global warranty?

    • +4

      https://www.asus.com/au/support/article/599/

      1. International Warranty and Support

      This Warranty applies in the country of purchase. Additionally this Warranty entitles You during the Warranty Period to international ASUS warranty service in Europe, North America (USA, Canada and Mexico), Asia, Africa and Australia/Oceania, subject to the following additional restrictions: ..

      • Service procedures may vary by country,
      • Some service and/or spare parts may not be available in all countries
      • Localized spare parts (e.g. keyboard/ keymats) may be replaced with the version customary in the country where the repair is requested.
      • Some countries may have fees and restrictions that apply at the time of service.
      • Certain countries may require additional documentation, such as proof of purchase or proof of proper importation, prior to performing International Warranty and Support

      To enjoy the comprehensive international warranty service, visit ASUS Service Center website at http://www.asus.com/support/Contact-ASUS/ for detailed locations

    • I status always buy Asus overseas because I find that their warranty is great and they have a service center in Perth (slightly unsure if it covered desktops as I have only got laptops)

  • Windows 10. Home or Pro?

    • +2

      I would presume it's a highly likely it's the Home. Most computers of this price level come with Windows 10 Home. And it's probably from an ASUS system image that's stored on the hard drive.

  • +1

    A bit off topic, but how can a new latest 6th gen Skylake quad-core desktop CPU 65W perform worse than an outdated 2th gen Sandy Bridge laptop CPU having the same number of cores, and only slightly better in single thread performance?

    http://www.cpubenchmark.net/compare.php?cmp[]=2522&cmp[]=2578&cmp[]=884

    I was first excited to hear about Skylake but I guess I will wait at least 2 more years to justify the upgrade to a new laptop. At least at that time Cannonlake will have had, hopefully, USB 3.1 builtin already.

    • +1

      lower clock speed and less power? even with it 2.7ghz clock it outperforms many other i5. do not forget the graphics boost you get also. plus you can fit up to 64 gigs of ram and use ddr4 if you want…

      • +1

        Graphics boost and DDR4 are real benefits, but not significant. And I'm not so sure about the less power part though. The old laptop CPU is still 20W less than this new desktop CPU (45W vs 65W).

        • 30w less cause this CPU doesn't have a letter on the end like s or m or t which are the low power variant?

        • http://www.cpu-world.com/Compare/494/Intel_Core_i5_i5-2550K_…

          even if it put vs a more powerful cpu which is 95w it still beats it? but the 2550k is unlocked?

          what cpu are you comparing it to?

        • +1

          Not sure if I understand you correctly, but it's disappointing that a 6th gen quad-core desktop CPU performs worse than an old 2nd gen laptop CPU with the same number of cores and lower power power consumption. Granted the i7-2760QM has hyper-threading but it's still a big surprise for me.

          From what I understand, there is often not much difference between i7 and i5 if they have the same number of cores, and desktop CPU is usually 30-50% faster than its laptop counterpart, so this is something really hard to understand for me.

          I had been tempted to jump into this deal as a backup with the intention to offload some heavy tasks to the brand new desktop quad-core Skylake CPU until I realised that it is actually slower than my old W520 laptop with the CPU mentioned above.

        • +1

          @aussieprepper: I compared it with the i7-2760QM as mentioned above. However, even when compared it with the i5-2550K you can see that there's almost no difference between the two in terms of performance, which , as said, is really disappointing, given Skylake is 4 generations after the Sandybridge.

          Edit: words

        • +1

          @GreenRomeo: But note the price difference. A $450 desktop vs a $378 CPU. The mobile CPU costs virtually as much as the entire desktop.

        • @GreenRomeo: not to argue but yea but its a unfair comparison its has hyper threading and also more threads and is almost double the price at release date and also can run hotter

          i do get what you mean.

          i5 have always been a step behind until the release of devil canyon but that price was right in the i7 range like $400

          i am running this in a laptop now it goes good for its power.
          http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu.php?cpu=Intel+Core+i7-4765T+…

          i don't think intel is pushing for more power i think they want more energy efficient CPU and longer life times

        • @twocsies: Fair enough, but please also note that i7 CPUs' prices tend to be inflated more than the real added benefit they bring in compare to the i5s.

          Also not really relevant but the (used) i7-2760QM can be had for as low as US $100. The i5-6400 in this desktop is $269 at MSY right now.

          I know it's silly to compare them that way, but from a bargain point of view I think there's not much difference between a used and a new CPU.

        • +1

          @GreenRomeo: we could always use AMD lol ;P

        • @GreenRomeo: I believe it would be better to compare CPUs with similar features. Look at the i5-2400, which sold for around the same price, does not offer unlocked, and almost everything similar.

          http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu.php?cpu=Intel+Core+i5-2400+%…
          http://cpuboss.com/cpus/Intel-Core-i5-2400-vs-Intel-6400

          Note that CPU Boss seems to have some error on the Passmark. It gives a slight advantage to the newer CPU.
          * i5 6400: 6,532
          * i5 2400: 5,813

          Basically, the only real improvement is the annual energy cost. If you were running it as a business computer (i.e. running for hours daily), you would save around $50/year in energy costs.

    • +1

      Keep in mind that they only have 6 samples of the newer chip. The specific systems those samples came from could heavily skew the result for non-CPU reasons.

      Also, the older i7 has Hyper-Threading (8 logical cores), which would provide a boost to some benchmarks. Not a 100% boost, more like 10-30% with common benchmark workloads, but that would be more than enough to explain the discrepancy.

      • From what I understand Hyper-Threading is not that important. I really want to think that the benchmark has been heavily skewed, because otherwise it would be hard for me to justify upgrading my system in a year or two.

        • +1

          If you read that whole article they agree that HT averages around a 20% boost. Again, that would largely explain the difference in results. Apart from that, unless you have a specific workload (or benchmark) that leverages the newer induction set extensions, modern non-flagship CPUs aren't getting that much more powerful. Getting more efficient though (I suspect the newer chip will have a lower average consumption despite the increased max TDP).

    • I don't think you are looking at this correctly. Just because the mobile chip has a slightly higher PassMark does not necessarily mean it performs better. PassMark is just a synthetic benchmark which tests what your processors COULD be capable of, by taking advantage of most features on the CPU. This doesn't really translate to real world results though, as most applications/games are not really meant to use all these features offered. PassMark isn't a fantastic way to measure differences in performance.

  • +4

    Found a bit of a review of this exact model computer. Seems to review well.

    http://pcverge.com/asus-m32cd-us003t-desktop-review/

  • +1

    Why would you need 32gb RAM, especially in this system?

    • Virtualisation, according to the OP. He'd have to be running quite a few instances of resource-intensive programs to require that much RAM though.

  • +1

    $620.62au del. for the i5
    $514.34au del for the i3

    Looking for a christmas pressie. The i3 may do it.

  • -7

    Eli5, why get a desktop??

    • +6

      Expandability, more useful for a static environment, can be more powerful as they tend to have better cooling.

      Cant usually add more than one hard drive to a laptop or run triple monitors, or upgrade your graphics card.

      • +1

        An, OK. I get the triple monitor system. Cheers

      • +1

        You've obviously never heard of the MSI GT80 Titan XD

      • +2

        They also tend to last longer (because they run cooler, and the more solid construction), and are usually cheaper.

        • The link between reliability and higher but nonetheless within normal operating range temps doesn't seem to be backed up by evidence. Higher temps within the normal range seem to do zip in reality it seems to me.

          Google's hard drive statistics even show a small increase in reliability with higher temps across thousands of disks - no reason to aim for higher temps at home of course but it does make you think.

          Hell (not that it means anything) I can't say I've had any CPU that I've overclocked fail before. Currently my oldest CPU is a C2D from 2008 that's been conservatively overclocked it's entire life.

  • +5

    It won't works in AU until change of power supply, that make it cost more than $700, don't think worth the hassle thought.

    • Has anyone actually seen a 110V-only computer PSU?

      • +1

        Not for many years

      • There are 220-240V only PSUs (rare), never heard of 110V only though

        • -4

          that's DC abd AC, most countries using AC which is 220-240V, America still using 110V (DC)

        • +3

          @webtherapist: The US uses 110V AC, not DC. I don't think any country in the world uses DC now as sending DC over large distances is very inefficient since transformers can't be used.

        • @eug: i see, thanks :)

    • Most likely you will only need to change the power cable inthis case.

    • You may need just an AU IEC power lead as seen here. http://www.harveynorman.com.au/belkin-2m-computer-ac-power-c…

      • So we don't have to change the whole PSU?

        • Possibly not. Most modern PSU's are universal power. But to be sure you'd just open the computer up and check what the power rating says on the PSU. If it's universal power it should say some thing like 110-240V.

    • After re-checking this 350w PSU should be labeled with 240v. should not need to change PSU, just get a au plug for it to try. The worst case is a loud bang if asus use a cheaper batch psu.

      • "The worst case is a loud bang if asus use a cheaper batch psu."
        Yup, happened to me. What now? go to MSY and buy a suitable PSU?

  • Can we put a graphics card in this? It says its integrated at the moment.

    • Yes, the integrated one will just be deactivated.

      • thanks very tempting to get one, chuck a GTX970 in. but depends if PSU will work here…

        • +2

          350W PSU according to the amazon reviews.

          So maybe a 750Ti max

        • @fryandlaurie:

          The GTX970 wouldn't even start with that 350W PSU (and it's probably not even a real power 350W PSU).

        • +1

          @fryandlaurie: I easily ran an i5 4690 and a GTX 970 on a 5+ year old 380W Earthwatts PSU…

          Sure, it's not this PSU, but people vastly over estimate how much power they need.

        • A gtx 970 alone pulls 145 watt (reference not the full overclocked models) and you need appropriate 6 or 6+2 pin connectors depending on if it is an overclocked model. Cheap power supplies that can't perform their specified wattage at higher temperatures generally wont have these connectors. In other words, buy a quality power supply!

          Good way to work out the minimum amount of wattage for a system:

          http://outervision.com/power-supply-calculator

  • awesome setup for the price !

  • This will take an SSD I assume?

    • Yep

    • I'd consider it a must upgrade, use the 1tb for storage, boot from ssd

      • Is there a benefit with ssd if you leave system always on. Having upgraded one of my systems to ssd (for os and frequent programs only) I find the main benefit of start up time.

        • +1

          Apart from fast boot times, it makes your programs launch a lot faster and also makes file transfer speeds much faster too.

        • +1

          Lower electricity usage.

  • +2

    How are you guys getting >$600 delivered for the i5

    If you pay with an AMEX card my total for the i5 was $373USD which is $509 according to google exchange rate or $529 according to amazon exchange rates. I guess AMEX exchange rate will be somewhere inbetween!

    ps. amex you get 15% off, that is why it's cheaper.

    Purchased!!

  • -8

    It's not worth the hassle, I rather get it here at MSY or CPL :)

  • The i5 6400 is $269
    8gb RAM is probably $80 (not including that RAMARSE deal this week)
    case + psu maybe $80-100
    Win10 100? don't know
    1tb hd $50?
    motherboard $80?

    It is great value and the comment about 'not worth the hassle' …much less hassle getting it built and delivered. Change the PSU.

    rough guesses as you can tell!

  • +4

    MSY/Umart equivalent:

    CPU (i5 6400): $269
    MOBO (GB B150M-D3H): $140
    RAM (Patriot Sig 2x4g 1600) : $68
    HDD (WD Blue 1TB): $69
    PSU (Corsair CX V3 430): $69
    CASE (Silverstone PS08/09): $45

    Total: $660

    This is the most basic I could make the system without compromising too much. Obviously this excludes a DVD burner, wifi module, kb+mouse, OS (can be bought cheap at /r/microsoftsoftwareswap) and card reader. Further room to downgrade the mobo but not much point.

    So, freaking fantastic deal.

    • +2

      To be fair, you should compare what is actually inside these machines (although i myself would personally purchase the newer 1151 socket too).

      You can still purchase the i3 4170.. therefore comparing i3, entry level asus mobo, basic psu and case which is in these typical machines:

      Umart/MSY:

      CPU : i3 4170 - $172
      MOBO: Asus H81m-Plus - $89
      RAM: 1x8gb Kingston 1600mhz (can upgrade to 16gb)- $65
      CASE+500 watt PSU: Thermaltake Versa 22 - $88
      HDD: 1TB WD blue - $69

      Total: $483 Including your manufacturer warranties from a store you can actually visit.

      That being said, if you didn't know how to assemble, or didn't have an OS then this isn't a bad deal for what $500 AUD?

      ** also the power supply may be cheap in that it does not do dual voltage. Some have a switch to change to 230v, some do not.

  • has anyone bought one of these yet?

  • +2

    Bought…I'm in trouble when she finds out (gulp!!)

    • same, but wife was next to me when I bought…so she knows

    • We are always in trouble mate, ozbargain knows this and helps you to earn that trouble.

  • I don't need it but why did I bought it? Oh well!!! Purchase now, think later.

  • Is it worth buying if the motherboard is not great?

  • +3

    Did anyone order this lately. I cannot get them to ship this to Australia

    • +1

      Same here. Cannot ship to my address…

      • Not letting me order either :(

        • Lets me order, you are choosing 1tb arent you?

        • @boogaloo: Yes, and also tried two different addresses, not allowed…

    • Same for me. Looks like Amazon have stopped sending it to Australia. (i5, 1TB)

      • Same here. No more orders of this ASUS PC being shipped direct to Australia. It was probably never meant to be allowed to be shipped to Australians like the 2TB model was not available to Australians. Possibly blaim the manufacturer for blocking international purchase.

  • +2

    Can't see what the motherboard is.
    How many slots, what they are, how many things i can stick in it.
    I always go bananas on the motherboard personally - it's the bedrock that you build everything else on.

    Also what if a part proves cactus?
    Am I meant to ship it back?
    Not sure a good price is going to make up for that kind of potential headache.
    Bought a system through MSY once.
    Problems with video cards - took me ages to resolve it.
    It was hard enough when they were 30min away.

    No one has a clear answer on the power supply either.
    I'm a 240V man personally.

  • -1

    -> No SSD kills it. Its essential. Yes really. Its not 2005 no more.

    -> i5 is the slowest base model and a 2.7GHz base speed is embarrasing, Skylake or no. A 6600 starts at 3.3GHz and boosts to 3.9GHz which is a huge difference. Asus is a major manufacturer they can cop the difference.

    -> $10 case + $20 PSU that reading from the comments is up to 350w at best.

    -> H110 is the cheapest, least full featured Skylake mobo chipset (and the i3 probably comes with H81 which is equivalently feature stripped).

    -> I have a 4170 it can hybrid decode 4K and is swift for desktop use.

    -> I wouldn't trust shipping a box halfway around the world that will likely be dropped multiple times.

    • +7

      Man, this deal is not for you. Btw, they already been shipped half the world when they arrive US from China.

    • +2

      Its essential. Yes really.

      No. It really isn't. The PC will be perfectly functional albeit slower. Additionally you will have more storage space than spending an equivalent amount of money on SSD storage.

      • -2

        Yes it is. Does your box boot in less than 10 seconds cold? Restart around the same? Is the desktop liquid and installing programs in seconds if not minutes? Do updates not slow you down? An SSD is essential.

  • bought 2 for my new offices! thanks!

  • Would really like to know what the motherboard is…

    Want to make it an HTPC but don't know how many internal SATA ports it has available as I will have to add a few Hard Drives full of media.

    Also - people have mentioned that this won't work in AUS until you change the PSU as well. Is that true? I won't be adding anything else to it other than HDs.

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