The days of the “Desktop Tower” and monitor are long gone in many or most Aussie homes. Replaced by tablets, laptops and all-in-one computers and when it comes to that last category, design is starting to catch up with expectations.
The category is hardly new, but I think what’s happened is the surge in mobile and laptop computing has dramatically reduced the cost of parts which are really the same as what you get in an all-in-one.
Dell and HP have had some decent entries in this space, of course, Apple’s popular iMac is big here, and there’s Microsoft’s enormous Surface Studio PC too. But here’s a contender from left-field that’s worthy of consideration – the Lenovo IdeaCentre A540.
With a 23.8 inch screen, it’s just the right size for the open family space or a study desk.
The copper or brass look link between PC and Monitor is a really impressive touch, and allows the monitor to tilt – but not lower down toward the desk.
A minimal PC unit looks good, with only the power connector in it – the guts of the connectivity is in the rear of the screen.
HDMI input means you could hook up any HDMI device like a games console, DVD player or whatever you choose, and HDMI output means you can have a second screen too.
Running an i5 processor at the entry-level $1,999 price, it’s not cheap – but hey – style doesn’t come cheap does it.
My favourite feature – the top of the desk unit is a wireless charger for your phone.
The specs will be enough for any family, as long as your kids aren’t looking for something for intense gaming.
Oh, it’s also got a retractable webcam for the privacy narks
Easy setup, stylish design, the Lenovo IdeaCentre will probably get the wife’s stamp of approval too.
Price wise, it might be a touch hard to justify – but I genuinely believe you’re getting an overall package that makes it worthwhile.
Web: Lenovo
Trev is a Technology Commentator, Dad, Speaker and Rev Head.
He produces and hosts two popular podcasts, EFTM and Two Blokes Talking Tech. He also appears on over 50 radio stations across Australia weekly, and is the resident Tech Expert on Channel 9’s Today Show each day and appears regularly on A Current Affair.
Father of three, he is often found down in his Man Cave.
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