Review of the iBuyPower Slate 8 Mesh: An Affordable Gaming PC Ready for Action

Pre-built desktop gaming PCs might not be everyone’s first choice, and that’s perfectly alright. Many gaming aficionados prefer the hands-on approach of sourcing individual components and savor the thrill of their custom-built machine coming to life for the first time.

But what if you could have a pre-built that feels like it was assembled right in your own home, using standard parts available on the market, with meticulous cable management and attention to detail? This is where iBuyPower steps in.

iBuyPower offers a notable improvement in these aspects when compared to the mass-produced models from Dell, HP, and Lenovo. While iBuyPower does have a selection of ready-to-ship PCs, like the Slate 8MP RDY 004 I’ve been testing, they also provide a robust customization tool. This allows users to tailor every component to suit their preference.

The system uses recognizable parts without any bothersome proprietary designs, facilitating easy future upgrades. It is playable out of the box, and assembled with care. Plus, when you consider it costs just a bit more than sourcing and building a similar setup yourself (yes, I built a comparable PC to verify this), it makes a compelling case for gamers eager to dive into gameplay once the machine arrives.

Having spent several weeks with the iBuyPower Slate 8MP RDY 004, I’ve explored its strengths and areas for improvement to guide potential buyers in determining if it’s the right fit for their gaming needs.

iBuyPower provided Windows Central with a temporary review unit of their Slate 8 Mesh pre-built gaming PC for an unbiased assessment of its offerings.

I’ve been diving into PC testing and reviews with Windows Central since 2016, although my experience with custom builds goes back several decades. While pre-built PCs might not be to everyone’s taste, they serve well for those looking to save time and energy. This context has informed my review.

iBuyPower offers a range of pre-configured options that lean toward the boutique market, offering several models to choose from.

Here’s a peek into the iBuyPower Slate 8 Mesh specs:

• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Pro
• Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
• Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA RTX 4090 or AMD Radeon 7900 XTX
• RAM: Up to 96GB DDR5-6000MHz or 32GB DDR5-6400
• Motherboard: Intel Z790 or Z890
• Storage: Up to 8TB WD Black SN850X (x2)
• Power Supply: Up to 1,300W 80+ Gold
• Cooling System: Customizable case fans and up to 360mm liquid CPU cooling

The setup for this review includes the RDY Slate 8MP 004 with a 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700F CPU, an ASUS Dual RTX 4060 Ti V2 OC GPU, 16GB of T-Force Vulcan DDR5-5200MHz RAM, and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD from the WD Blue SN580 series. It’s currently on sale for $1,249 at iBuyPower, down from $1,499, with a similar configuration retailing at Best Buy for $930 as part of Black Friday discounts.

The system is built on an ASUS Prime B760M-A AX6 II motherboard, powered by a High Power 750W 80+ Gold PSU, housed in the custom iBuyPower Slate 8 Mesh Pro ARGB case. If the PSU brand isn’t familiar, that’s because it’s under the Thermaltake umbrella.

Using PCPartPicker for a similar setup, I found the cost to approximately be $1,420. Considering the $1,499 iBuyPower price includes warranty, support, and assembly, the extra cost seems justified.

Besides pre-configured models available on major platforms like Best Buy and Amazon, iBuyPower’s website offers deep customization. Simply select Intel or AMD, and you’ll be presented with extensive hardware options, from cases and fans to thermal paste. The configurator’s ease of use, coupled with FPS estimates for popular games, offer a user-friendly experience.

Moving onto design and build, the Slate 8 Mesh employs the company’s custom ARGB enclosure. It’s an ATX mid-tower case with extensive cooling space and expansion slots.

Standard with three front intake ARGB fans and one rear exhaust fan, it supports more up top along with 360mm radiators for liquid cooling. Handy drive bays and easy top access USB ports round out the offering.

Cable management is commendable. Everything is neat behind the motherboard, unused PSU cables are tucked out of sight, and the dual 2.5-inch SATA drive bays are ready to go. Despite some front-side cable clutter, likely due to the compact motherboard, future upgrades shouldn’t pose a problem.

Shipped with protective foam encasing the internals, iBuyPower ensures transport safety though removing the foam requires careful attention. The PC booted seamlessly, with all components securely connected.

Software-wise, iBuyPower’s clean version of Windows 11 is devoid of bloatware, unlike other brands. The use of third-party RGB control software like Armory Crate or Aura Sync is optional, allowing users flexibility without unnecessary pre-installed programs.

Their support mirrors standard boutique offerings, with labor and parts covered for up to two and three years respectively when purchasing directly. Various sales channels impose additional terms.

Noise levels are a consideration; the stock fan curve is aggressive but easily adjustable for those in the know, although novices might not realize this. The system remains audible during idle, though no cooling issues were experienced.

For those comparing pre-builts, consider the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i (Gen 8) as an alternative. Offering stock designs and parts, it appeals to users less concerned with upgrades. However, it might fall short against iBuyPower’s customizable approach.

In summary, iBuyPower’s Slate 8 Mesh strikes a harmonious balance for those seeking a ready-to-play gaming rig that feels akin to a home-made build, thanks to its standard components and thoughtful design. Consider your needs, and take advantage of sales, to determine if this setup aligns with your gaming goals.