Acer Reveals New Windows 8 Powered Consumer Desktops

Acer announced the new Aspire ME and XC Series, both of which feature Windows 8. The Aspire ME Series micro towers are available in two sizes. This series targets users who want a power-packed system along with plenty of upgrade options. The Acer ME Series desktops offer Intel Core i7 or Core i5 processors, up to 10GB DDR3 memory that can be expanded to 16GB, and up to 2TB hard drives. Select models within this series also offer discrete graphics.

The Acer ME Series chassis has a recessed deck on top that lets you charge smartphones and cameras. This deck provides access to two USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and microphone and headphone jacks. For users who want to upgrade the system, two open PCI-E x1 slots are available for adding a sound card or RAID card. The system also has an open PCI-E x16 slot for a video card.

The chassis included with the Acer ME Series features two 3.5-inch easy swap expansion bays that can be accessed without opening the chassis. This series also features Bluetooth 4.0, HDMI, and VGA ports.

The Aspire XC Series small form factor desktops target users who are looking to save space. This series offers up to an Intel Core i3 2130 processor, up to 1TB hard drives, and 6GB memory. Other key features include an HDMI port and up to eight USB 2.0 ports.

Both the Aspire ME and XC Series feature high-definition audio with 5.1-channel audio support, a SuperMulti optical drive, and AcerCloud. These systems come with two stereo speakers, a keyboard and mouse.

Pricing for the Acer Aspire ME Series starts at $649.99. The Aspire XC Series starts at $399.99. Both series will be available on October 26.