What do 3XS get right?

[phil4]

As there are a few threads outlining what customers think could be improved, I thought it only fair to provide some balance to my comments with what they get right.

- Spec'ing the machine is these days more configurable than Dell etc. Dell used to be really good at this, when everyone else just shipped standard boxes. Now Dell seem to be moving back to limited or pre-built systems. Scan get it right, and even more so, not just how much memory, but what brand, 2 DIMMS or 4. The same for most of the other components too.

- The Spec can be adjusted outside of the pre-defined choices. As I found when I wanted a H100i, rahter than a H100.

- The Spec is checked. I'd chosen a case that didn't have room for the radiator. No problem, it's switched for another case.

- Build updates that add an insight into what's happening in a really good way. Not just Building - Built - Shipped.

- Burn-in results in the tracking. Really nice to see.

- BIOS OC settings emailed to you, in case they get wiped or lost.

- Thorough QC. Looks like they even burn a CD and DVD, to check they work. That's pretty thorough if you ask me.

- OC options. Again, looking at Dell for example you have to go Alienware for an option to OC, and even that's limited.

- Super-tidy build. Cables are fed round the back of the case, and proberly bound and attached. Meaning the inside of your case doesn't look like a many legged octopus got in.

- Real performance focus if you have the budget - Whereas many seem to offer what they think they can get away with at the cheapest price, 3XS systems provide you with real performance options, with real performance components if you want to.

In short my PC is top notch and really great. And while I still think things could be improved, I hope the above outline why I'm very happy with what I got.

I also apprecaite that the above doesn't apply to everyeone. If you're on a budget of £300 you're not going to be glad of the SLI option available.

[jim]

Tbh, when you say "The Spec can be adjusted outside of the pre-defined choices", I think you're actually underselling it a bit. I asked a few people on these forums, decided exactly what I wanted, down to the model of HDD, and then sent a list of components through to the 3XS guys. And a few weeks later, it appeared. You can see it in my sig.

In my experience, they're more than happy to build absolutely anything, as long as it's not daft. I even asked them to spec up a mini-ITX HTPC a while back, which they did, but I changed my mind.

[phil4]

It's a fair point, but not one I had/have experience of, so not right for me to comment. I'm glad you have though!

[WritersBlock]

This is good to know as I normally self-build, but getting it built for little or no difference is great - get a warranty then. or I presume so.

[phil4]

Yep, standard seems to be 1yr on site, 2yrs RTB. I've used the warranty twice with last PC, once case damaged when shipped, the second a failed power supply. Both were rectified with little hassle, and back to acceptable standard (ie. power supply cabling was done just as tidily).

Again, I'm sure it's not without its faults, but it can work well.

[spoons33]

I think the only thing that lets Scan down a bit is their sometimes slow or even lack of communication, I have never had a problem communicating with them and I was always kept up to date when my system was built, but it seems to be the most complained about subject in the forums, as for the quality of their 3xs systems, I think that is unquestionably top notch.

[KeyboardDemon]

Thanks for this thread, I find it frustrating that there have been quite a few posts that have been attacking Scan recently, posts like this serve to remind me why Scan are still my favourite on-line retailer. I really want to get a 3XS rig, it is still a long way away, but reading a good mini-review like yours is very encouraging.

[carlb79]

It's true, they're extremely configurable compared to anywhere else I've seen. Just be warned of the long lead times when ordering a 3XS system! As a side note, I'm entirely happy with my new 3XS system

[phil4]

It's was almost exactly 5 weeks between order and delivery for my order. There were no holdups with bits out of stock, so I'd expect that as the norm.

[carlb79]

I can't say for sure about the 7-10 days quote, I just know mine took, like phil's upwards of 4 weeks. If you order one of the 'pre-built' systems it may be quicker, but these things take time. They are totally worth the wait though!

[Beetyd]

5 weeks? wowzers, if i order i hope it doesn't take 5 weeks? ive been quoted 7-10 days.

Yeah 4-5 Weeks was about right. Me and my friend both had that- unless its a ready-to-ship system.

[lodore]

I have ordered alot of stuff from scan but never a complete pc. i am tempted to get a scan system after reading this. the 3xs website configuration page does seem quite limited compared to other custom machines in regards to hardware selection. I think scan need to update the website to reflect the fact that they will do more custom options if asked. Even thou I haven't got the money yet I will enquire in advance. Scan do sell all the parts I want so I just want to know if i added all the items to the basket if scan would then build the system for me and overclock it? I could build it myself easy enough but if it doesn't cost much more to get it built and over clocked with a warranty then it could be a good option.