HP 8300 Elite Small Form Factor Desktop Computer, Intel Core i5-3470 3.2GHz Quad-Core, 8GB RAM, 500GB SATA, Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit, USB 3.0, Display Port (Renewed)

There are a lot of reviews and answered questions saying this PC can't be used for gaming, but that's simply not true. This HP Elite 8300 arrived in like-new condition with a brand new hard drive, new RAM, and an unused Windows 10 key, and I was able to slot in a low profile GeForce 1050 video card that's so far been able to run every game I've thrown at it in 1080p with max settings, including Skyrim, GTAV, The Witness, Counter-Strike Global Offensive, and others.It's a perfectly zippy computer on its own, but dropping in a decent graphics card (it appears the 1050 Ti is the most this system can handle, particularly with regard to its proprietary 240-watt power supply) has given me a system that well exceeds my expectations and runs video games better than any other device I've owned, including my past computers and home consoles.I did have one minor issue with the system when it arrived: the fan on the power supply made a curious grinding noise that sounded like it was going out. To fix it, I slid a screwdriver into the back of the power supply to stop the fan from spinning, then started the computer. After a few moments, I pulled the screwdriver out, and the fan sped up to its max speed, likely in an attempt to rapidly cool the system. After spinning at such high speed, the fan stopped making the noise at lower speeds, and I haven't heard the grinding noise nor heard the fan spin up to its highest speed since. It's been over five months since then, and I haven't had a single issue to report otherwise.It's also worth noting that the computer shipped in a box indicating that it was a Microsoft Certified Refurbished system. This isn't (or wasn't) listed in the product description, but for some users, this certification is added peace of mind.Edit: ten months have passed since I first started using this PC, and nearly everything is still working perfectly. I say "nearly" because after months of ignoring the system's front-facing headset port, I finally plugged one in only to find that the port doesn't carry microphone audio as indicated. For me, this is no big deal. Otherwise, the system has been a treat. I installed a PCI wireless network adapter and an LG-branded Blu-ray burner, both of which have been working flawlessly. My 1050 has been also running smoothly with absolutely no problems. To be honest, I've had fewer problems with this system than any other PC I've ever owned; granted, most of my others were built from the ground up. My experience has been such a success that I even convinced a buddy of mine to buy his own 8300 several months back, and from what I've heard, his system has been functioning perfectly as well.Second edit: Three years in and I've yet to have any other problems with this system. It was a workhorse for a long time, but I've since upgrade to a new PC. However, I did eventually buy a third one of these, and that one eventually had its hard drive die — though I can't rule out accidents since its user is pretty clumsy. Otherwise, all three have been fantastic. The other two I purchased are still in active use today, and mine sees use several times a week as a Plex server and NAS.

Why did you pick this product vs others?:price

The media could not be loaded. I had to get my original package replaced because for some reason it wouldn’t connect correctly (which i put up a video following images of this issue ) . once i received the second one i eventually got everything hooked up but the desktop wouldn’t turn on so i used the one from the first order but everything seems to be running smoothly now. ( when i received these issues i called the product customer care and they would never pick up but luckily amazon did. )

OK in all fairness I can't expect this computer to be as good as most brand new computers on the market today.However this tower was a whole lot more than I expected. I am a moderate computer user. Build websites, photo/video editing etc.So far I haven't found anything it won't do.Only problem I've had at all was after about 4 days all the back usb slots quit working (at the same time). Fortunately I only use 3 usb spots (mouse/keyboard combo and 2 external drives. So it wasn't a huge deal. ****update**** The usb slots started working again after a couple of reboots. *****Was a little tricky to get all setup the way I like things but after a few days am flying through my jobs.If you need a good solid system to get you through the day this is the computer for you. 8 gigs of ram is so much more than most of the refurbished computers offered on here.Of course I would love to put more in it eventually right now there is nothing I plan on changing on it.It was package extremely well, came earlier than expected. And worked perfectly right out of the box.Seriously grab this! Even if you just want a back up and/or extra computer or need a replacement...this is a great system. These older systems were workhorses and would run when nothing else would.Will buy again and definitely would recommend.*****UPDATE*******Almost 1 year running this PC and have had ZERO problems.The UBS slots I reported as stopped working, started working again after a couple of restarts. I'm thinking it was most likely some of the drivers I had installed with other things.This PC will be a great buy for most everyone. Yes you need more power and such for some things but for the everyday user, photographer, blogger, podcaster etc. this unit will serve you well. There are a lot of upgrades you can do on it when necessary but to start off this is just the ticket.I have dual monitors hooked up, bought a usb bluetooth adapter and camera and haven't had to change one single thing.I am planning on buying a second unit soon.If you are short on $$ this is one of the best starter towers you can find!**********.*********3rd Update, 11 months later and I have had zero problems.In fact I just ordered a 2nd unit. I plan on ordering 2 more before long.Seriously if you just need a cheap computer that does just about anything, this is your must have! I have a regular monitor connected to it, then I have a 2nd monitor through the HDMI and can share the desktop between.If I want a movie or something running while I am working I just put the movie/TV show on the second screen and have a clear desktop to work with.I haven't found any of the programs I use for website building, video editing, music/editing, podcasting and so much more.*********