Conclusion

The Überclok Ion pushed some impressive performance numbers in a few benchmarks, but was completely obliterated by our “home built” system in others. And this is where we must tell you that it wasn’t a completely fair comparison.

The problem, of course, is that when we overclocked our system, we forfeited the warranty on all affected components. Conversely, Überclok’s price reflects a warranty policy that covers not just parts, but shipping in both directions. A few service deliveries could easily wipe-out any profits Überclok made on the original sale, and that fact puts enormous pressure on the company to deliver a system that remains reliable for a full three years. Your $1,760 buys $1,100+ in components and a $600 insurance policy against any potential problems.

Naturally, experienced system builders will likely look past the Ion’s warranty coverage, choosing to spend that extra money on go-fast hardware. But don’t underestimate the allure of a fire-and-forget setup when you’re recommending a system to friends—especially if you’d rather not be the designated support line.

Überclok’s system configurator allows buyers to step up to a double HD 4850 CrossFireX solution, complete with X48 Express motherboard upgrade, for around $330. Such a system would have easily beaten our home-build, and the price difference is still less than $600. If you’re all about gaming, that’d be route to take for the best bang for your buck.

Überclok brings the best of what makes home-built systems special to buyers who can’t build it themselves, with three years of service and support putting value in their price structure.