Compaq Presario

Compaq Presario
Company type	Product line
Industry	Computer hardware
Founded	August 26, 1993; 33 years ago
Founder	Compaq
Defunct	2013
Fate	Discontinued following HP's retirement of Compaq brand
Successor	HP OmniBook (noted as replacement for notebooks)
Headquarters	United States
Area served	Home and small office segments
Products	Desktop computers, laptops, PC monitors
Owner	Compaq (1993–2002), Hewlett-Packard (2002–2013)
Parent	Compaq (until 2002), Hewlett-Packard (after 2002)

Presario represents a discontinued series of consumer-oriented desktop computers and laptops initially developed by Compaq and subsequently manufactured by Hewlett-Packard following their 2002 merger. Launched in 1993, this product line was designed to serve the home and small office segments.

After HP acquired Compaq in 2002, both HP- and Compaq-branded Presario devices were available until the Compaq label was phased out in 2013.

History

The Presario brand debuted on August 26, 1993, when Compaq introduced the all-in-one 400 series, marking its foray into the consumer retail computer space. By November of the same year, the lineup expanded to include the horizontal desktop 600 series and the tower-style 800 series. Notably, during the 1990s, Presario was among the pioneers offering computers priced below $1000 and was the first major manufacturer to integrate processors from AMD (starting in early 1994) and Cyrix, allowing for competitive pricing strategies.

Prior to HP's takeover, Compaq launched five generations of Presario models encompassing various desktop and tower configurations powered by Intel, AMD, and Cyrix CPUs. In addition to computers, mid-1990s Presario-branded PC monitors were produced to complement these systems. Between 1993 and 1998, all-in-one units combining both PC and monitor functionalities were available. The initial Presario laptops made their appearance in 1996.

Following the acquisition, HP positioned Presario as its entry-level consumer brand under the Compaq name, marketed alongside HP’s Pavilion series. Around 2002, Presario notebooks replaced the discontinued HP OmniBook business laptops. In 2024, HP brought back the OmniBook brand incorporating AI innovations as part of a broader consumer product refresh. The Presario name remained in use until HP retired the Compaq brand in 2013 due to alleged "marketability issues," though this has not been officially confirmed.

Timeline of models

Before being acquired by HP in 2002, Compaq developed five distinct generations of Presario computers, each identified as a separate "Series."

Initial models (1993)

The introduction of the Presario line began with the Compaq Presario 425 (400 series) on August 26, 1993, followed by the addition of the 600 and 800 series in November that year. These early systems incorporated Intel, AMD, or Cyrix i486 processors, featured between 4 and 8 MB of RAM, onboard video controllers, hard drives ranging from 200 to 340 MB, floppy disk drives, and integrated V.32 modems. They came pre-installed with MS-DOS 6.x and Windows 3.1x operating systems along with software such as TabWorks. The 600 and 800 series offered a "CDS" package that included a CD-ROM drive and Sound Blaster 16 sound card as standard components.

These first releases were followed by what became known as the first generation "Series 1" Presarios produced from 1993 through 1996.

"Series 1" (1993–1996)

After launching the initial models, Compaq broadened its range on September 14, 1994, introducing the 500, 700, and 900 series with examples like the 5500, 7100, and 9600 continuing production until 1996. This generation featured modest revisions to case designs and utilized i486 or Pentium-compatible processors. Early units operated on MS-DOS and Windows 3.1x; later releases from August 1995 onward shipped with Windows 95.

The "CDS" configuration remained available on some models but was gradually discontinued after September 1995 as CD-ROM drives and sound cards became standard features across all units.

"Series 2" (1996–1998)

In July 1996, Compaq unveiled the second-generation "Series 2" Presario lineup, introducing refreshed chassis designs across the 4000, 6000, and 8000 families, along with the integrated all-in-one 3000 series. The range expanded in 1997 with the addition of the well-received 2000 series. Representative models from this era include the 2200, 3020, and 8700 series. Notably, this generation marked the final release of all-in-one desktop units.

Design aesthetics evolved from the original boxy shapes to initially incorporate beveled concave contours around drive bays, eventually transitioning into a distinctive “spaceship” tower silhouette featuring smoked-black CD bezel accents—a style that persisted through to Series 5 in 2000. These tower models were equipped with conveniently placed "Easy Access Buttons" on their tops for user-friendly operation. Processor choices encompassed Pentium and AMD K5 through K6 CPUs, with select models utilizing Cyrix chips. Some configurations supported discrete PCI graphics cards as well as PowerVR Midas3-based accelerators developed by VideoLogic (currently Imagination Technologies). All systems were delivered preloaded with Windows 95 (OSR2 or OSR2.5 versions).

This generation also marked Compaq’s initial foray into consumer laptops with the Presario 1000 series notebooks, which featured Pentium processors, integrated hard drives, CD-ROM and floppy drives, built-in modems, PC Card slots, and LCD screens.

Most Series 2 models were phased out by early 1998 with the arrival of Series 3; however, the popular 2000 series remained available until late 1999. The final Series 2 desktop designs appeared in models like the Presario 2254–2256 released in 1998, where "Easy Access Buttons" were reduced to a single sleep button. Later that year saw the introduction of the redesigned Presario 2266 desktop as a successor to earlier Series 2 variants.

"Series 3" (1998–1999)

In 1998, Compaq introduced the third generation of Presario systems dubbed "Series 3," which included models such as the 5000, 5100, 5200, 5400, and 5600. This generation discontinued all-in-one configurations to concentrate mainly on tower-style desktops. Horizontal desktop variants like the Presario 2254, 2255, and 2256 retained some design cues from their predecessors, while new iterations such as the redesigned models 2266 (1998), and later the 2286 and 2288 (1999), debuted. A key innovation was the introduction of build-to-order customization via the "Built For You" program for select lines including the 5600 desktop and the 1600 laptop series—accessible through retail kiosks and Compaq’s online platform.

While maintaining elements of the "Series 2" spaceship design language, these cases adopted a shorter and more rounded profile. Premium models incorporated smoked-black plastic flip-up doors labeled “easy access,” which concealed USB ports, audio jacks, and game connectors; however, top-mounted "Easy Access Buttons" were eliminated. Processor offerings broadened to include Intel Celeron, Pentium II and III processors alongside AMD K6-2 and K6-III chips. Cyrix processors were removed from desktop configurations but persisted in laptops and notebooks. Discrete AGP graphics cards became standard on many systems, primarily featuring ATI Rage chipsets such as the Rage LT Pro. DVD-ROM drives were offered optionally on several models.

With increasing internet usage in the late ’90s, most units incorporated Ethernet network cards alongside traditional 56k dial-up modems. Windows 98 was installed by default on all machines.

The Presario laptop series continued with AMD K6-2-powered models in the 1200 and 1600 ranges using Intel, AMD, and Cyrix processors—the latter marking their final appearance in Presario notebooks.

Although most desktops and laptops transitioned to "Series 4" during 1999, production of the 1200 laptop series extended into the year 2000.

"Series 4" (1999–2000)

In 1999, Compaq introduced the fourth generation of its Presario desktop lineup, termed "Series 4," which encompassed models such as the 5300, 5700, 5800, 5900, 7300, 7400, 7500, 7800, and 7900 series. Additionally, specialized variants like the 3500 and EZ2000 series made their debut. Many of these units were offered through customizable build-to-order options accessible via retail kiosks and Compaq’s online platform.

This generation evolved from the prior spaceship-inspired design to a sleeker, more rounded form factor featuring translucent purple flip-up panels that provided access to USB and FireWire (IEEE 1394) ports. Processor selections spanned from Intel Celeron to Pentium III and AMD K6-2 to Athlon CPUs. Standard equipment included floppy disk drives, CD-ROM drives, AGP-based graphics cards, integrated sound cards, built-in modems, and DVD-ROM drives on select models. Emphasis on internet connectivity was evident through inclusion of both Ethernet and dial-up modem cards in many configurations. These systems came preloaded with Windows 98 Second Edition.

The Presario laptop range persisted with this generation as well, featuring AMD K6-2 powered 1200 and 1600 series alongside the 1800 and 1900 series. Notably, these laptops exclusively utilized Intel and AMD processors following the discontinuation of Cyrix CPUs within the Presario brand.

Compaq Presario EZ2000 series

Launched in January 2000, the EZ2000 series focused on user-friendliness and internet accessibility with two models: the EZ2200 and EZ2700 (the latter available solely through Compaq’s "Built For You" custom ordering program). This line was distinguished by a blue chassis with translucent feet and incorporated an on-screen Digital Dashboard designed to assist users during setup and operation. Front-facing panels provided easy access to optical drives, floppy drives, USB ports, and IEEE 1394 connections; side panels facilitated straightforward hardware upgrades. Processor choices ranged from Intel Celeron up to Pentium III. The EZ2700 model was complemented by the MV730i monitor and JBL Pro speakers featuring blue grilles.

All EZ2000 machines shipped with 64 MB RAM, integrated AGP graphics adapters, SoundMax audio chips, hard drives between 17 and 20 GB, floppy disk drives, PCI-based 56k modems, and CD-RW drives. Optional enhancements included additional CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drives as well as Ethernet network cards.

"Series 5" (2000–2002)

The Presario family underwent an update in 2000 with the introduction of its fifth—and final—generation prior to Compaq’s acquisition by HP in 2002. Labeled "Series 5," this lineup initially featured the 5000 and 7000 series before expanding to include the 4000, 6000, and 8000 series. Region-specific offerings included Japan-exclusive models such as the 3200 and a legacy-based 3500 series.

The initial two Series 5 models were unveiled on June 21, 2000. A subsequent refresh occurred on September 24, 2001—coinciding with Microsoft's Windows XP release—bringing new models and updates to existing ones. Consistent with earlier generations, many of these machines were available through build-to-order services at retail locations or via Compaq’s website.

From a design perspective, Series 5 marked a shift toward a more refined look with redesigned cases, monitors, and peripherals that departed from the spaceship motif used since 1996. Processor options expanded to include Intel Celeron, Pentium III, Pentium 4 processors alongside AMD Duron, Athlon, and Athlon XP CPUs. Standard features encompassed floppy drives; CD-ROM or CD-RW drives; AGP graphics cards; sound cards; Ethernet adapters; built-in modems; with some models offering DVD-ROM drives. Early units shipped with Windows 98 SE or Windows Me preinstalled; later releases came equipped with Windows XP.

New laptop lines introduced during this period consisted of the 1400, 1700, and 1800 series while the existing Intel- and AMD-powered 1200 series continued production. Additional laptop offerings included the Intel- or AMD-based 700, 2700, and 3000 series.

Following HP’s acquisition of Compaq in 2002, select Series 5 desktop models such as the 6000 and 8000 series remained available as entry-level options alongside HP’s own products but were gradually discontinued by the mid-2000s in favor of newer Presario releases.

Compaq Presario 5000 series

Debuting in June 2000 alongside the 7000 series, the Compaq Presario 5000 series represented the budget-friendly segment of the fifth generation of Presario PCs until September 2001. Designed for cost-conscious buyers, it provided economical hardware options distinct from the unrelated "Series 3" 5000 models produced during 1998–1999.

This lineup introduced a compact mini-tower chassis with interchangeable translucent front panels available in six different colors, complemented by an optional optical disc rack capable of holding up to five discs. The case accommodated two 5.25-inch and one 3.5-inch drive bays.

Processor choices included Intel Celeron, Pentium III, and Pentium 4, as well as AMD Duron and Athlon CPUs. Most Intel configurations utilized integrated graphics solutions, whereas AMD variants supported dedicated graphics cards such as the RIVA TNT2 M64 and GeForce 2 MX; notably, Intel models did not feature AGP slots, unlike their AMD counterparts. Standard onboard audio was provided. Customers could tailor their systems through Compaq's "Built For You" customization program available at retail kiosks or online.

Initially delivered with Windows 98 SE, subsequent releases featured Windows Me. From September 2001 onward, Windows XP became the default operating system with upgrade options for certain units manufactured between June 2001 and January 2002.

A production refresh in September 2001 extended manufacturing into early 2002, overlapping with the Presario 4000 and 8000 series. Limited availability continued until Compaq’s merger with HP in 2002 concluded the brand’s independent PC production.

Compaq Presario 7000 series

Introduced simultaneously with the 5000 series in June 2000, the Compaq Presario 7000 series targeted the premium performance market as flagship fifth-generation models until September 2001.

While sharing design cues with the 5000 series, it featured a taller mid-tower enclosure that included removable translucent faceplates in six colors and an optical disc holder. The chassis offered three 5.25-inch and two 3.5-inch drive bays, along with IEEE 1394 (FireWire) ports in addition to USB for expanded connectivity options.

Processor selections encompassed Intel Pentium III and Pentium 4 as well as AMD Athlon processors. Unlike the entry-level line, all models in this series utilized dedicated graphics cards ranging from RIVA TNT2 M64 and GeForce 2 MX to higher-end GeForce 2 GTS and GeForce 3 GPUs. Audio capabilities were provided by a Creative Sound Blaster 128 PCI card featuring the Ensoniq AudioPCI ES1373 chipset. The "Built For You" customization service allowed clients to configure systems to their specifications.

The initial operating system was Windows 98 SE, followed by versions equipped with Windows Me; some AMD-based models came preloaded with Windows 2000 Professional. Although Windows XP was not factory-installed due to the introduction of the Presario 8000 series in September 2001, upgrade paths were offered for machines produced between June and September of that year.

The Presario 7000 series was ultimately replaced by the Presario 8000 lineup toward the end of 2001.

Design and features of the Presario 5000 and 7000 series

Both the Presario 5000 and 7000 lines marked a departure from earlier "spaceship"-style cases by adopting a more refined tower design characterized by a sleek front panel aesthetic. Coordinated monitors and peripheral devices embraced this updated visual theme, delivering a unified product family appearance.

A notable innovation was the use of interchangeable translucent colored plastic faceplates under the "MyStyle Accent Color Kits" banner, offered in six hues—one standard (Smokey Quartz) plus five optional colors. Some units included one optional color choice between 2000 and 2001. Furthermore, beginning in 2001, the 5000 series added "WildStyle Accent Color Kits," presenting six distinctive finishes such as Carbon Fiber and Brushed Steel.

The towers incorporated functional elements like translucent flip-open covers for USB ports (with FireWire ports also covered on the 7000 series) alongside an optical disc holder designed to store up to five discs. Tool-less access features—including removable screwless drive rails—facilitated straightforward hardware upgrades.

Anticipating increased internet adoption in the early millennium, both families came equipped with Ethernet adapters and dial-up modems as standard. Keyboards featured dedicated internet function keys, and select configurations bundled Logitech QuickCam webcams to support video conferencing and other online applications.

Compaq Presario 8000 series

Launched in September 2001, the Compaq Presario 8000 series succeeded the 7000 series as the flagship performance range within the Presario lineup. It was among the final Presario models developed by Compaq prior to its mid-2002 acquisition by HP.

The 8000 series introduced a redesigned tower chassis inspired by the Compaq Evo business computers, featuring a modular beige enclosure that could be configured as either a desktop or tower. Departing from earlier designs, it eliminated translucent colored front panels in favor of a more refined and professional appearance, eventually adopting the black and silver styling characteristic of the Evo line. The case accommodated up to two 5.25-inch bays and one 3.5-inch bay, and included a minimum of three IEEE 1394 (FireWire) ports—one integrated and additional ones accessible through PCI expansion cards.

Processor selections spanned from Intel Pentium 4 to AMD Athlon and Athlon XP variants. Graphics options were exclusively discrete, ranging from entry-level GeForce 2 MX cards to higher-end GeForce 3 Ti200/Ti500 and Radeon All-In-Wonder models. Standard onboard audio was provided, with optional upgrades available through Creative Sound Blaster Live! sound cards. Consumers could tailor their system specifications via Compaq’s "Built For You" custom configuration service accessible at retail kiosks or online platforms. All configurations shipped with Windows XP, predominantly the Home Edition, while Professional versions were offered on select builds.

Produced concurrently with the budget-focused 5000 series—which also underwent hardware refreshes—as well as the earlier 4000 series and subsequent mid-tier 6000 series, the 8000 line represented Compaq’s final high-performance Presario offering before merging with HP. Post-acquisition, HP continued manufacturing the 8000, 4000, and 6000 series until their phase-out in the mid-2000s, making the 8000 one of the few pre-merger models retained after integration.

Post-merger models (2002–2013)

Following Compaq’s merger with HP in 2002, the Presario brand shifted focus toward entry-level computing under the Compaq name, positioned alongside HP’s consumer product lines such as Pavilion and Envy. HP released numerous Compaq Presario desktop ranges including SG, SR, and CQ series, alongside laptop models like 2100, 2200, 2500, M2000, R3000, V2000, V3000, V5000, V6000, X6000, C500, C700, F500, F700, and CQ lines. These systems typically featured low- to mid-tier hardware configurations—often equipped with Pentium Dual-Core or Athlon II processors—with integrated graphics and audio solutions. A significant number of Presario laptops were essentially rebranded HP devices; for instance, the Presario V2000 was derived from the Pavilion dv1000. Operating system offerings evolved from Windows XP (2002–2006) to Windows Vista (2006–2009), then Windows 7 (2009–2013). After the merger, HP replaced legacy Compaq software with its proprietary applications. The Presario brand was ultimately discontinued in 2013 when HP retired the Compaq name.

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Desktops

Since its inception in 1993, Compaq Presario desktops have been manufactured in numerous models and configurations available in both desktop and tower styles.

Desktop PC series

Below is an overview of notable Compaq Presario desktop lines and models that illustrate the brand’s extensive market reach:

Compaq Presario 600 series (examples include 633, 650, 660)
Compaq Presario 800 series (such as 850, 866)
Compaq Presario 2100 & 2200 series (including models like 2110, 2240, 2285V)
Compaq Presario 2400 & 2510 series
Compaq Presario 3000 & 3200 series (e.g., 3008EA, 3221JP)
Compaq Presario 3500 series (e.g., 3522JP, 3590)
Compaq Presario 4000 & 4100 series (such as 4108, 4112)
Compaq Presario 4200 & 4500 series (including models like 4212es, 4540)
Compaq Presario 4600 & 4700 series (examples include 4626, 4716)
Compaq Presario 4800 & 4900 series
Compaq Presario 5000 series featuring "Built For You" customizable options
Compaq Presario ranges from 5100 to 5300 covering various regional versions
Compaq Presario lines between 5400 and 5700 with multiple submodels
Compaq Presario "Built For You" models within the 5800 & 5900 range
Compaq Presario S6000 and SG series
Compaq Presario SR1000 through SR5000 series offering diverse configurations
Compaq Presario CDS series integrating early CD-ROM drives and Sound Blaster audio cards

Model number suffixes

Beginning in 1998 with the introduction of the "Series 3" Presario computers, model numbers were often followed by one to three-letter suffixes that signified processor type, special attributes, or geographic markets. These suffixes typically appear in the format:

----xxx

where "----" represents the four-digit model identifier and "xxx" denotes the suffix (for example, 7000T, 7000US, 5101RSH). The exact suffix varies depending on the specific model.

Common suffixes include:

T: Processor based on Intel technology
Z: Processor based on AMD technology
i, N, Y: Configure To Order (CTO) options
CL: Models sold through discount shopping clubs
SE, SE1: Special Edition variants
WM: Exclusive to Walmart retail
V, A, C, F, R, X, AX, KS, LS, IL, NL, NX, SR, RSH: Meaning not officially documented

Suffixes also indicate sales regions:

US: United States market
CA: Canadian market
LA: Latin American market
EA/(E/e + letter): Western and Eastern European markets
AU/AN: Asia and Australia markets
JP: Japanese market

Following the 2002 Compaq-HP merger, many of these suffix conventions continued under HP branding.

Notebooks

Compaq Presario’s notebook range has existed since at least 1996. Several models were rebranded versions of Compaq’s Evo laptops or later HP models after the merger—such as those rebranded under the Pavilion name.

Notebook series

(The list below highlights notable Presario laptop lines but is not comprehensive.)

Compaq Presario 300 series
Compaq Presario 700 series (e.g., 722US)
Compaq Presario 800 series
Compaq Presario 900 series (later rebranded as Evo N1005)
Compaq Presario 1000 series (models 1010, 1020, 1030)
Compaq Presario 1200 series (including variants like 1200CA, 1200US, 1200CL, 1200SR, 1200RSH, and T/Z/A versions)
Compaq Presario 1400 series
Compaq Presario 1500 series (rebranded Evo N1000/N1020)
Compaq Presario 1600 series
Compaq Presario 1700 series (such as 1700CA, US, CL, SR, RSH and T/TA variants)
Compaq Presario 1800 series (models like 1800US, CL, SR, RSH with T/TA options)
Compaq Presario 1900 series
Compaq Presario 2100 series
Compaq Presario 2200 series
Compaq Presario 2500 series
Compaq Presario 2700 series
Compaq Presario 2800 series (rebranded Evo N800)
Compaq Presario 2900 series
Compaq Presario 3000 series
Compaq Presario A900 series
Compaq Presario C300 series (e.g., C304NR)
Compaq Presario C500 series (e.g., C502TU)
Compaq Presario C700 series (including C742TU, C762NR, C769US)
Compaq Presario CQ series (ranging from CQ20 to CQ71 models)
Compaq Presario F500 and F700 series (for example F706LA)
Compaq Presario M2000 series
Compaq Presario R3000 series (rebranded as HP Compaq nx9100)
Compaq Presario R4000 series
Compaq Presario V-series (from V1000 up to V6000; some rebranded as HP Pavilion or HP Compaq models)
Compaq Presario X-series (X1000 and X6000; with X6000 rebranded as HP Compaq nx9600)
Compaq Presario ze2000 (later rebranded under HP Pavilion and HP Compaq)

Model number suffixes

From the launch of the "Series 3" in 1998 onward, one to three-letter suffixes attached to model numbers identified key characteristics such as processor type and intended regional market. Positioned after the base model number, these suffixes aided in distinguishing specific configurations. This naming convention was largely preserved by HP after their acquisition of Compaq in 2002.

Notable suffixes include:

T: Intel processor-based systems
Z: AMD processor-based systems
TA: Configure To Order Intel models
ZA: Configure To Order AMD models
NR: Models sold without rebate offers
CL: Club-exclusive models available through discount shopping clubs

Regional identifiers specify target markets:

US: United States distribution
CA: Canadian distribution
LA: Latin America distribution
EA: Western and Eastern Europe distribution
AU/AX: Asia and Australia distribution (AU indicating AMD with integrated graphics; AX indicating AMD with discrete graphics)
TU/TX: Asia and Australia distribution (TU for Intel with integrated graphics; TX for Intel with discrete graphics)

All-in-one

Between 1993 and mid-1998, Compaq Presario released all-in-one computers that combined the PC and monitor into a unified chassis, offering simplified desktop computing solutions.

All-in-one series

Compaq Presario 400 series (including models such as 425, 433, 460)
Compaq Presario 3000 series (examples: 3020, 3060)
Compaq Presario 4400 series (examples: 4402, 4410)
Compaq Presario 5500 series (models like 5520, 5522, 5528, 5536)
Compaq Presario CDS/CDTV series (including CDS 510, CDTV 520, CDTV 524)

Monitors

Starting with the introduction of the "Series 2" Presario in 1996, Compaq manufactured a variety of monitors under the "Compaq Presario Multimedia" brand. These displays covered multiple screen types and sizes, with new models typically launching alongside new computer generations or during mid-cycle updates.

Timeline

1996–1998 – 1x25, FXx00
1998–1999 – MVx00, FPx00
1999–2000 – MVx20, MVx30, FPx20
2000–2002 – MVx40, CVx35, FSx40, FPx40

1x25 and FXx00 series

Introduced in 1996 as successors to earlier displays dating back to 1993, the 1X25 series monitors were designed specifically for "Series 2" Presario models such as the 4100, 4700, 6700, and 8700 series as well as later additions like the 4500, 4600, and 4800 lines. These monitors complemented the tower design with a distinctive split lower bezel. Controls included analog dials for brightness and contrast adjustments, a volume knob that also functioned as a power switch, a mute button positioned on the left side, and four additional analog display tuning dials hidden behind the lower panel—later replaced by digital controls on the model 1725. Volume and other settings were manageable via an on-screen display. A built-in microphone was positioned at the top of the monitor.

The less common FX series featured an all-black design equipped with integrated JBL Pro speakers powered by built-in amplifiers and subwoofers along with three extra USB ports. These units were tailored for use with black multimedia towers from the Presario 4800 series (models ranging from 4830 to 4882).

Compaq Presario 1425
Compaq Presario 1525
Compaq Presario 1725
Compaq Presario 1725b
Compaq Presario FX500
Compaq Presario FX700

While most models offered optional JBL Pro speakers mounted on the sides, only the FX series incorporated built-in JBL speakers accompanied by rear-positioned subwoofers.

MVx00 and FPx00 series

Launched in 1998 as Compaq Presario’s second generation of monitors, the MVX00 and FPX00 lines were designed to support "Series 3" towers as well as some late "Series 2" systems like the Presario models numbered between 2254 and 2256. These displays replaced the previous analog brightness and contrast knobs with digital controls operated through buttons. The formerly concealed adjustment dials were eliminated entirely. The MV500 model featured six LED indicators denoting control functions; meanwhile, MV700 and MV900 models introduced on-screen digital menus. Volume and mute buttons were removed in favor of a conventional power button; additionally, MV700 and MV900 incorporated a dedicated degauss function button. The integrated microphone remained atop these monitors.

This generation marked the debut of flat panel LCD screens under the FP series—the first flat panels targeted toward home users.

Compaq Presario MV400
Compaq Presario MV500
Compaq Presario MV700
Compaq Presario MV900
Compaq Presario FP500
Compaq Presario FP700
Compaq Presario FP5315

JBL Pro speakers could be mounted on the sides of all models except for those in the FP flat panel lineup.

MVx20, MVx30, and FPx20 Series

Introduced in 1999, the MVX20 line represented Compaq's third iteration of monitors tailored for the Presario brand, specifically designed to accompany the "Series 4" Presario models. These units replaced traditional LED indicators with on-screen digital controls and incorporated built-in microphones. A significant change was the removal of the "Presario" name from the display, leaving only "Compaq" and "MVX20" branding visible.

The MVX30 series arrived in early 2000, highlighted by the MV730i model which featured a more rounded front panel while maintaining an angular back design. These monitors retained on-screen digital controls and integrated microphones, accented with silver trim. Crafted to pair with the EZ2000 Presario series, they set the stage for subsequent lines such as the MVX40, CVX35, and FSX40, sharing a similar visual style.

Flat panel LCD monitors were available under the FP series designation.

Compaq Presario MV520
Compaq Presario MV720
Compaq Presario MV920
Compaq Presario MV730i
Compaq Presario FP720

In contrast to previous models like the 1X25 and MVX00 series, these monitors (excluding the FP range) did not include side mounting points for speakers. Instead, they were paired with redesigned standalone JBL Pro speakers that complemented both monitor and tower aesthetics but lacked mounting capability. The EZ2000 series notably included JBL Pro speakers featuring distinctive blue speaker grills.

MVx40, CVx35, FSx40, and FPx40 Series

Launched in mid-2000 as the final Presario monitor lineup before HP's acquisition in 2002, the MVX40, CVX35, and FSX40 series targeted "Series 5" Presarios such as the 5000 and 7000 models. These monitors adopted a curved design language consistent with those systems, continuing features like built-in microphones—except for the CVX35—and silver accents on microphones and power buttons (which were absent on CVX35). All models included on-screen digital controls.

The FS series introduced flat-screen CRT monitors, while flat panel LCD options persisted under the FP label.

Compaq Presario MV540
Compaq Presario MV740
Compaq Presario MV940
Compaq Presario CV535
Compaq Presario CV735
Compaq Presario CV935
Compaq Presario FP745A
Compaq Presario FS740
Compaq Presario FS940

These models reintroduced side mounting brackets compatible with JBL Platinum Series speakers available in six color variants matching the 5000 and 7000 series chassis. Removable speaker grills were standard equipment. Additionally, a line-in audio input enabled external sound sources to play through the monitor speakers. The FP745A was distinctive for featuring built-in speakers integrated directly into the monitor housing.