Desktop / All-in-One Reviews
HP Envy 34c Curved All-in-One Review
by Alex Mondosie - March 3, 2016
Review
There is nothing like the Envy 34c All-in-One’s curved, 34-inch super-widescreen and built-in speakers to surround you in a truly unique experience. Even the name “Envy” is a hint to expect your friends’ attention, as everyone will want to check it out. No doubt, it’s a home computer worth talking about.
The HP Envy 34c Curved is a sophisticated Windows PC that pushes its OS (operating system) features to the max. The All-in-One computer sports a modern look, and the polished support legs make it stand out like no other home computer you’ve seen. The screen and audio combination deliver a state-of-the-art computing experience that immerses the user into a new dimension. The computer casing’s unique, design works together with an innovative, high-end curved screen (boasting WQHD+ resolution) to give you an excellent field of view—just keep in mind that the screen curvature may take a little getting used to.
The HP Envy 34c has plenty of ports for connecting external peripherals: Ethernet, HDMI, SD-card reader ports, and plenty of USB 2 and USB 3’s in the front and back. You can hook up an external Blu-ray player, smartphone, or pad to watch a movie. And what about your favorite gaming consoles? Just plug it in to the HDMI-in port, and the large curved screen—combined with the Bang & Olufsen sound system—will create an entirely immersive gaming experience. Want some privacy? Just use the built-in headset jack with your headset. Great so far, right?
Out of the box, this PC may not be a plug-and-play computer for the novice, and you may have to do some software updates for the Envy 34c to work at its peak performance. HP provides on-site service if an issue cannot be corrected over the phone or remotely, although the service is not available holidays and weekends.
Overall, the HP Envy 34c is unique enough to be, well, an enviable piece of technology. If you want to admire U.S. engineering and performance and experience an incredible work of technological art, you should give the HP Envy 34c Curved All-in-One a test drive. You will not be disappointed.
Highlights
-
Best Windows 10 experience in its class
-
Rich audio experience with NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 960A and Bang & Olufsen integrated speakers
-
Intel® Core™ i7 processors built for extreme performance
-
Wireless optical mouse and keyboard with volume control
-
12 GB DDR4 Ram upgradeable to 16 GB
-
Up to 1 TB of additional storage for more music, videos, and photos
-
WQHD 34-inch diagonal curved display
-
Intel® RealSense™ 3D Camera
-
Technicolor Color Certified
-
1 year limited hardware warranty with chat support and 90-day phone support
Pros
-
34-inch ultra-wide curved screen - Technicolor certified
-
Powerful Intel Core i7 processor
-
Solid-state drive and 1-Terabyte hard drive storage
-
HDMI-in ports for Blue-ray Players, pads, smartphones, cameras and game consoles
-
Plenty of external ports
-
No bloatware
Score
9.3
Cons
-
No side-mounted ports
-
Most current movie streaming services can't take advantage of the full screen yet
-
No height or swivel adjustment
-
Curved display may take a little getting used to
-
Keyboard feels rickety
Cyberpower Trinity Xtreme Gaming PC Review
by Zion Moonstone - October 12, 2015
Review
CyberPowerPC is turning plenty of heads with their new Trinity Xtreme Gaming PC. The computer features a distinctive tri-star design not like any other case previously created. This look, while it seems peculiar, does offer a lot of functionality.
With the powerful hardware that the Trinity Xtreme comes with, overheating is an issue for conventional cases. For example, in a regular case the six-core processor and Titan X graphics card get hot requiring many large fans and other cooling systems. The Trinity Xtreme manages heat by isolating the power supply, motherboard, and graphics card enabling individual and compartmentalized cooling. The first compartment houses the graphics card while the second houses the motherboard, processor, and RAM, and the third houses the power supply and hard drives. The case is made mainly from steel allowing it to be sturdy and stable in spite of the tri-star design.
The Trinity Xtreme is shorter than other performance PCs but is much wider as well. You may have a problem choosing a location to place the computer. Furthermore, the design has less room than conventional cases so the motherboard is small and lacks expandability. With a smaller motherboard, there is no room for additional RAM and no room to add video or sound cards. On the other hand, there are three hard drive bays for storage expansion.
Performance-wise, the Trinity Xtreme is on the upper end of the scale. Although serious aficionados may condemn lacking upgrade room, the gaming PC excels both in gaming and photo and video rendering. The CyberPowerPC Trinity Xtreme is a good choice for high-end users who require higher-end performance but do not need extreme hardware specs.
Highlights
-
Unique tri-star case
-
Intel Core i7-5820K six-core processor
-
Nvidia GeForce GTX Titan X graphics card
-
16GB DDR4 RAM
-
Mini-ITX motherboard (smaller than traditional motherboards)
-
250GB solid-state drive and 2TB 7,200rpm hard drive
-
Three additional drive bays (two 2.5” bays and one 3.5” bay)
-
Ports: 6x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, eSATA, 3x HDMI, and 2x DisplayPort
Pros
-
Compartmentalized cooling
-
High powered processor and graphics card
-
Capable of 3K and 4K gaming
-
Excels in photo and video rendering
-
Sturdy and stable case
Score
9.5
Cons
-
Hassle to take apart for upgrades
-
No upgrade room for additional RAM
-
Takes up a lot of surface area but has little internal space
-
Cannot fit additional video or sound cards
-
Heavy (30 lbs)
Highlights
-
Stunning new design
-
High-end performance
-
Powerful multicore processors
-
Dual workstation-class Graphics Processing Units (GPU)
-
Fast PCIe-based flash storage
-
Thunderbolt 2
-
Use 3 monitors at the same time
-
The perfect tool for professionals
Mac Pro is the professional desktop computer reinvented from the inside out. Arranging the most advanced technologies available around a unified thermal core allowed Apple to make this the most powerful and Mac ever, yet also unbelievably compact and quiet.
The new Mac Pro features the latest Intel Xeon E5 processor, with up to 12-core processing power and a four-channel memory controller providing up to 60GB/s of memory bandwidth, all on a single die. And with 40 lanes of PCI Express gen 3 throughput, up to 30MB of L3 cache, and over 500 gigaflops at peak performance, you’ll never be at a loss for speed.
Every new Mac Pro comes standard with dual AMD FirePro workstation-class GPUs, each with up to 6GB of dedicated VRAM and 2048 stream processors, providing up to 264GB/s of memory bandwidth and up to 3.5 teraflops. That’s enough power to edit full-resolution 4K video while simultaneously rendering effects in the background — and still connect up to three 4K displays.
Next-generation PCIe-based flash storage is up to 2.4 times faster than SATA-based solid-state drives and up to 10 times faster than a 7200-rpm SATA hard drive. So booting up, launching apps, even opening massive files happens in, well, a flash.
Apple is very open as far as giving you choices to build your dream workstation, and without being limited to the space inside the enclosure. Thunderbolt 2 delivers throughput of up to 20Gb/s to each external device. And since each Thunderbolt 2 port allows you to daisy-chain up to six peripherals, you can connect massive amounts of storage, add a PCI Express expansion chassis, and work with the latest 4K displays.
Build for professionals with all the performance and tools professionals use.
Pros
-
Compact
-
Powerful hardware
-
Excellent performance for pro-level graphics and video tasks
-
Up to 3 displays connected simultaneously
-
Extremely low noise level (hard to tell if the system is on
-
Energy efficient
Cons
9.4
Score
-
Internal expandability is limited
-
Not very useful for home consumers
-
Runs a little warm
2015 Apple Pro
Review
by Alex Mondosier - June 18, 2015
MSI AG270 All-in-One Gaming Review
by Rachael Kalinyak - August 24, 2015
Review
A new generation of gamer computers is unleashed. MSI has created the first-ever All-in-One gaming PC that reinvents what it means to be regarded as an All-in-One.
With powerful state-of-the-art hardware, the MSI AG270 provides users with the greatest gaming experience. The advanced graphics cards allow for exquisitely vivid images from even the most demanding gaming graphics. The integration of the Killer™ E2200 Intelligent Networking Platform features Advanced Stream Detect™, a platform designed to instantly sense and move forward gaming traffic. With is, online gaming and streaming couldn’t be smoother therefore giving you the competitive edge needed to get ahead.
MSI’s Super RAID storage configuration is able to read up to approximately five times faster than a standard hard drive, allowing for a rapid download of videos, games, and anything else you may desire. In addition, Plextor True Speed technology allows users to enjoy the exciting speeds needed for affective gaming by resolving common solid state drive issues. Finally, the AG270 PC truly becomes an All-in-One PC as external devices are connected to the monitor through the HDMI-in port transforming it into the ultimate multi-platform device.
Powerful hardware requires a powerful design to keep it all together. The MSI’s large frameless anti-glare display featuring anti-flicker technology reduces wavelengths proven to be harmful to the eyes therefore providing an improved productivity and a reduction of eyestrain. Plus the resilient 10-point multi-touch screen, impervious to scratches and dust.
Finally, to provide users with the ultimate experience, MSI’s All-in-One PC features innovative, high-quality Yamaha 5w Speakers and Amplifier with an independent subwoofer to deliver more vibrant sounds, genuine bass tones and an overall improved audio dependability. Armed with only the best gaming equipment, the MSI AG270 recreates the definition of an All-in-One PC gamer’s PC.
Highlights
-
Advanced Stream Detect instantly senses and accelerates gaming traffic
-
Yamaha speakers
-
Anti-Flicker technology
-
4th Generation Intel Core processor
-
Amazing graphics allowing for the perfect gaming experience
-
Supersized computer monitor
-
Less dangerous blue light that reduces eyestrain and improves productivity
-
Super RAID Storage reads up to 5x faster than typical hard drive
Pros
-
Yamaha speakers with clear, distinct sounds
-
Large, vivid display
-
High-end gaming components
-
HDMI in-port
-
Energy efficient
-
Lots of storage
-
Low noise levels
Cons
Score
9.1
-
No options for expansion or upgrades
-
First generation device
-
Anti-glare coating tends to limit viewing angles
-
Only 1080p display
Highlights
-
Sprout illuminator
-
20" 20-Point touch mat
-
23" LED-Backlit 10-Point Touchscreen
-
Full HD 1920 x 1080 Native Resolution
-
3.2 GHz Intel Core i7-4790S (Haswell)
-
8GB of 1600 MHz DDR3 RAM
-
1TB SSHD + 8GB SSD Cache
-
NVIDIA GeForce GT 745A GPU (2GB)
-
802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
-
Windows 8.1
HP Sprout 23" Multi-touch Immersive Computer
Review
by Jacob Alman - Jul 27, 2015
Blending the physical and digital worlds that you live in, Sprout unleashes your creativity in a fully functioning PC. Sprout gives you all the tools to express yourself and get work done.
Experience innovative and intuitive multi-touch technology with the sprout immersive computer by HP. Located on the Sprout is the Sprout Illuminator, which is made up of the HP DLP projector, the HP high-resolution camera with up to 14.6 megapixel resolution, and the Intel RealSense 3D camera for instant capture of 2D and 3D objects along with an LED desk lamp.
Combined with a 20" 20-point HP Touch Mat and a 23" LED-backlit touchscreen, you'll be able to capture, edit, and share your photos with ease. Both the 23" touchscreen and the 20" touch mat can display images, which works as a dual display setup. Search for a photo you want to edit and then simply flick it down to the touch mat to start making your changes in the sprout workspace app. You can also use the included Adonit Jot Pro stylus for precision writing and drawing.
The system is powered by a quad-core 4th-gen Haswell 3.2 GHz Intel Core i7-4790S processor. It also has 8GB of 1600 MHz DDR3 RAM, a 1TB solid state hybrid drive with 8GB of cache, an NVIDIA Geforce GT 745A graphics card, a 3-in-1 media card reader, 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 4.0. Windows 8.1 is the installed operating system.
Go from thought to expression in an instant: Instantly capture, seamlessly manipulate, and share whatever inspires you. Making doesn't get much easier.
Bring it all to life: Everything you need to be creative and get work done. With Sprout's breakthrough technology, Windows multi-touch experience, the i7 processor, and 1TB of storage, you have the tools to express yourself and get work done.
See and touch: The ultimate creative space. Sprout's revolutionary immersive and intuitive multi-touch technology redefines how you bring your ideas to life.
Pros
-
Sprout gives you all the tools to express yourself and get work done
-
Combines a scanner, depth sensor, high-resolution camera and DLP projector
-
Innovative and unique
Cons
9.0
Score
-
It takes up quite a bit of space
-
Learning curve to use all functionalities
-
Limited upgrading options
Highlights
-
Engineered to the very last detail
-
Great built-in apps for work and play
-
Stunning Retina 5K display with 14.7 million pixels
-
Fourth-generation Intel Core processors.
-
The latest AMD graphics
-
3 TB Fusion Drive
-
Thunderbolt 2
-
802.11ac Wi-Fi - The next generation of wireless
-
OS X Yosemite
-
Applications: iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand,Pages, Numbers, Keynote, Safari, Mail, Messages, FaceTime, Calendar, Contacts, Maps, Photo Booth, Time Machine, and many others
Apple iMac With Retina 5K Display
Review
by Jacob Alman - Jun 25, 2015
iMac has always been about having a huge, immersive place to see and create amazing things. Creating such a stunningly thin design took equally stunning feats of technological innovation. Apple meticulously designed and engineered everything about iMac from the inside out. The result is an advanced, elegant all-in-one computer that’s as much a work of art as it is state of the art. So making the best possible iMac meant making the best possible display. The new 27‑inch iMac with Retina 5K display has four times as many pixels as the standard 27‑inch iMac display. So you experience unbelievable detail. On an unbelievable scale.
At such a scale, even the best existing technologies wouldn’t have made this iMac possible. So Apple did the impossible — developing a display with the performance to light up 14.7 million pixels, reducing energy consumption while maintaining high standard for brightness, and advancing image quality for the most striking contrast ever. And Apple did it all without compromising the incredibly thin design, just 5 mm at its edge.
The new iMac with Retina 5K display doesn’t stop with an amazing screen. With a quad-core Intel Core processor available at up to 4.0GHz, the latest AMD graphics, an advanced Fusion Drive, and Thunderbolt 2, there’s a very powerful Mac behind all those pixels.
OS X is what makes a Mac a Mac. OS X is the operating system that powers every Mac. Built on a rock-solid UNIX foundation, it’s engineered to take full advantage of what the hardware is capable of. It’s designed to be as easy to use as it is beautiful to look at. It comes with an amazing collection of apps you’ll use — and love every day. OS X enables your Mac and iOS devices to work wonderfully together. Not only is it designed to be intuitive and easy to use, but it’s also engineered to take full advantage of the Retina 5K display, so you’ll see everything on your desktop with stunning clarity. It features an incredible collection of apps you’ll use — and love — every day. And it’s designed to enable your Mac and iOS devices to work together in amazing ways.
Every new Mac comes with iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. So you can be creative with your photos, videos, music, documents, spreadsheets, and presentations right from the start. These apps have been updated to match the beautiful design of OS X Yosemite. You also get great apps for email, surfing the web, sending texts, and making FaceTime calls — there’s even an app for finding new apps.
With 21.5- and 27-inch models starting at $1099, there’s an all‑in‑one for everyone.
Pros
-
Best computer display ever
-
Latest technology available for an for an all-in-one system
-
High-end performance for video and photo editing
-
Fusion Drive comes standard in every model
-
Excellent overall performance
9.5
Score
Cons
-
Upgrades limited to adding RAM
-
Limited height adjustment
-
Rear-mounted ports are difficult to access
- Can't be used as a secondary display
Highlights
Virtual design for virtually any space
Easily bring high performance PC gaming into any room in your house. Whether you’re connected to a monitor or an HDTV, the versatile Alienware X51 lets you experience big-screen gaming wherever you want it.
Mind-blowing visuals and sound
Gaming, movies and other images jump off the screen with the powerful NVIDIA® graphics, Full HD, 3D and Blu-ray capabilities of the Alienware X51. For those seeking a system that can handle high-performance video and audio content creation, look no further than Alienware X51.
Expansive experience
Play your way, now and in the future. With WiFi and ample front and rear I/O ports (including a total of 8 USB ports), the Alienware X51 is engineered to help you customize your gaming and entertainment experience. And the ability to upgrade key components means your X51 will help you dominate games well into the future.
-
Small form
-
Sturdy build
-
Upgrading inside components is easy
-
Plenty of ports
Pros
9.0
Score
-
Limited upgrade options
-
Fan noise is high
-
Very large external power brick
Cons
Alienware X51 Gaming Desktop
Review
by Willow Parker - May 12, 2015
Virtual design for virtually any space: Easily bring high performance PC gaming into any room in your house. Whether you're connected to a monitor or an HDTV, the versatile Alienware X51 lets you experience big-screen gaming wherever you want it.
Expansive experience Play your way, now and in the future. With WiFi and ample front and rear I/O ports (including a total of up to 8 USB ports), the Alienware X51 is engineered to help you customize your gaming and entertainment experience. And the ability to upgrade key components means your X51 will help you dominate games well into the future.
Expansive experience: Play your way, now and in the future. With WiFi and ample front and rear I/O ports (including a total of up to 8 USB ports), the Alienware X51 is engineered to help you customize your gaming and entertainment experience. And the ability to upgrade key components means your X51 will help you dominate games well into the future.
Victory is yours: The key to any victory is preparation. With the Alienware X51 you can have up to the high-performance of its processors, graphics and storage you need to overwhelm your opponents now and into the future.
Gaming and more: The Alienware X51 is a powerful PC ready to not only take on your fiercest gaming challenges, but whatever else comes your way. Email, shopping and social networking are a breeze on the X51.
Ultimate control: All from one place, Take control of the game. And feel the intensity. The redesigned Alienware Command Center 3.0 lets you choose lighting and special effects, accelerate your gaming performance, monitor in-game results, and more - all in one hub.
AlienAdrenaline: Launch games your way with personalized shortcuts in Game Mode, maximize performance with the new Accelerator feature, and keep an eye on resource consumption with Performance Monitoring.
AlienFX system lighting: Create custom lighting and special effects to suit your unique gaming style.
TechNEWS
TechTV