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We are impressed with the hardware components that Falcon has selected for the Predator. They have managed to strike a good balance between processing and gaming performance, without using unreasonably expensive components. They have also used branded components throughout, reassuring us of the quality of the system as a whole.
The system is built inside an Aerocool Xpredator X3 case in white, which is quite an unusual choice. Most other PC manufacturers would opt for a better known branded case, such as those from Corsair or Bitfenix, so this differentiates the Predator from the competition. The case is fairly competent in function and has a striking design as well.
In our tests the Predator performed very well indeed and it demonstrated impressive capabilities. Even though Falcon doesn't overclock the Predator to the same degree as some manufacturers this has a benefit when it comes to temperatures under load and subsequent fan noise. The Predator was completely stable throughout all of our tests, remaining cool and quiet at all times.
The Falcon Predator costs £1,399 including VAT as tested. We configured a similar system from Overclockers UK, as well as a bundle of the exact components that are in this system and both came out at a very similar price to the Falcon Predator system. The Predator is a great option for those who don't want the hassle of building their own system.
Visit the Falcon Computers website to configure your own system.
Pros:
- Striking case design.
- Good component selection.
- Quality, branded components.
- Performs well.
Cons:
- Massive competition in the United Kingdom right now.
- We have seen better cable routing.
KitGuru says: An impressive system from Falcon.
never heard of these guys, but I do like that case, its pretty cool looking.
the price isn’t bad really considering they have to build it. can’t be much money in system building today to cover staff, heating, premises etc.
the only systems that someone could build better than me would be the 8pack ones at OverclockersUK. but they are much too expensive for my tastes. ill continue to build my own, but this one isn’t too bad. at least they didnt use a chinese PSU in it, like mesh. that was shocking 🙁
I’m quite concerned…
On page two you have an image of the system internals (http://www.kitguru.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_2991.jpg): that Graphics card seems like it is twisting horribly, or are all the cool kids using curved Graphics cards now?
I can see that there is a back-plate but I suspect shipping the system with a Graphics card that is that heavy could damage the PCI-e Port if not damaging the card itself? Is the back-plate made from a plastic, it looks like it flexes a lot more than it should?
Arrangements should be made to support the card in the configuration, maybe the chassis should be swapped for one that supports a Graphics card support bracket?
This would have to be the case if the system was configured to ship with a SLi configuration.
I’m sorry for my rant, I’m sure that if the fault lies with anyone it would be ASUS (The vendor for the supplied GPU). However, arrangements should be made by the system builder if they choose to offer the card.
On the whole, a well balanced system by The Falcon Computers, well done gents.
Well written as always Henry!