e-machine = Compaq
Compaq is now the rough equal to an e-machine, so take yer' pick!
Everyone has heard how bad a Compaq is . . . . e-machines aren't much better. And in some ways, the e-machine is worse.
Neo is right on the proprietary part though, the e-machine usually has a PSU that is 150W smaller than what it should be and then it isn't a standard size. So, when you burn out your PSU, you have to buy another one that is too small, directly from e-machine.
Send your friend here and have him ask us which is better!
Harder