Canon PIXMA MP800 All In One Photo Printer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased the mp800 to replace my Lexmark X-85 "INK GOBBLER" because I got tired of not being able to refill the ink successfully and paying through the nose for replacement ink cartridges. The Lex X-85 was over three years old and I was ready for a better printer that new technology had to offer.
I am very pleased with the MP800. It's printing quality and speed is excellent for this caliber of printer. Most of the photos I have printed are on "Jet Print" professional photo paper which has worked well. I have yet to purchase some Canon Photo Paper Pro and try it. I did however print one 4x6 photo from the included pack of Canon Photo Paper Pro that came with the printer. The photo quality was amazing!
Regarding the refilling of the ink cartridges: I purchased the 5 ink refill kit from re-inks.com for $60.00. the kit has enough ink for about 12 refills of per cartridge.
The printer is smart enough to know that you are using refilled ink cartridges but it allows you to continue with a warning that Canon may not be responsible for damage.
once you get past the warning the printer asks you to press the stop/reset button for 5 seconds and the printer will continue to print using the refilled cartridge but when you view the Ink Status Monitor it shows the ink tank level as empty.
So in the future you will have to manually remove the cartridge to view it's ink quality. This is easy to do because Canon's ink tanks are Clear Plastic!
This simple reset procedure is required each time the printer detects a refilled cartridge. I suspect that once all 5 cartridges have been "released" from ink detection, it might not ask you again to go through the reset process again. I haven't got there yet. Thanks canon for leaving the Ink Refill Door Open! Hope this info helps. Scott

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The advanced PIXMA MP800 Photo All-In-One delivers spectacular Print Copy-Scan performance. It produces an amazing resolution of up to 9,600 x 2,400 color dpi, for remarkable detail and clarity. To achieve this, Canon Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering (FINE) uses a next-generation 3,584-nozzle print head that ejects precise, consistent droplets as small as one picoliter. The result? Smoother, virtually grain-free images. Also, our ContrastPLUS five-color ink system--four dye-based inks and a pigment-based black ink--produces true-life photos with a wide color palette, along with laser-quality text. What about speed? A 4"x 6" photo lab quality borderless photo takes approximately 36 seconds.
When copying, the AE (Auto Exposure) Copy feature automatically optimizes reproduction quality based on the type of original you're duplicating. The convenient Photo/Film buttons allow you to make reprints of your photos and 35mm film without using your computer. And now, scanning: The unit's higher-resolution CCD technology enables you to produce exceptional 2,400-dpi scans, with vibrant 48-bit color depth. You can simultaneously scan up to six frames of 35mm film (negatives or positives), or up to four mounted slides. Plus, advanced paper handling features are built in - such as two paper trays and two-sided printing.
Want to evaluate and enhance your images before printing? Just insert your compatible memory card into one of the built-in card slots, then select the images on the extra-large 3.5" LCD color viewer. As needed, images will be automatically enhanced for red eye, sharpness and brightness values, or you can fine tune the images yourself using the easy control panel. Then, print directly from the memory card! As an option, you can print directly from a PictBridge-ready device such as a digital camera.
The Canon ChromaLife100 system combines the PIXMA MP800 Photo All-In-One's FINE print head technology and newly developed inks with select Canon photo papers, with results rivaling that of many conventional photos. And with the new smart LED ink tanks, your LED lamp flashes when ink is running low, and flashes even faster when nearing empty.
What's in the Box: PIXMA MP800 Photo All-in-One, PIXMA MP800 print head,ink tanks: PGI-5Bk Black, CLI-8 (black, cyan, magenta, yellow), power cord, easy setup instructions, documentation kit, Canon Photo Paper Pro for Borderless Printing 4" x 6" sample pack

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Epson Discproducer PP-100 Review

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(More customer reviews)I searched for quite a while to find a disc publisher I could rely on. So many of the products on the market have reliability or quality issues. The Epson PP-100 has been a great product. There have been a couple of bad discs, but the printer actually marks them as bad and continues working until it has produced the number of discs you specified. The on-disc printing quality is excellent, too.

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Epson's Discproducer is the advanced desktop publisher from MediaSupply.com you can rely on with its high performance, fast throughput and top reliability. It is designed for unattended operation and can burn and print up to 100 discs at a speed of up to 30 CDs or 15 DVDs per hour. And it has all the features you need to get the job done. Discproducer features a built-in inkjet printer with Epson's patented MicroPiezo technology. Using six colors, it delivers the highest print quality in its class with clear, crisp text and vibrant graphics. And it offers high-capacity cartridges plus individual LEDs for each ink cartridge to alert you when the ink level is low. Discproducer's robotic arm with patented AcuGripTM technology ensures that only one disc is placed in the drive or printer at a time, eliminating dual feeding that can damage the drives and interrupt unsupervised production runs. Many disc publishers have a single input bin and a single output bin. Epson's Discproducer, however, has three unique operating modes for you to choose from depending on the size of your job: batch mode for larger production runs of up to 100 discs, standard mode for smaller production runs up to 50 discs and external mode for up to 5 discs with mixed media support. Discproducer's easy-to-use Total Disc Maker software includes disc selection, data formatting, label design and publishing functions all in one package. Using a graphical user interface, you can select data, design a label, config

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Sony VAIO VGC-LT23E 22-inch PC/TV All-in-one (2.0 GHz Intel Core Review

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(More customer reviews)I have always been a Sony consumer and I continued with the purchase of this used desktop. Outstanding unit and well worth the money. I have not found anything I do not like about this unit. I will continue to utilize Sony products.

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Product Features All-in-one desktop PC with 22-inch LCD and integrated NTSC/ATSC TV tuners; wall-mountable 2.0 GHz Core 2 Duo T7250 processor, 500 GB hard drive, 3 GB RAM (4 GB max), 8x multi-format/dual-layer DVD drive Quad-mode Wi-Fi LAN (802.11a/b/g/n); Gigabit Ethernet; Nvidia GeForce Go 8400 graphics (up to 1407 MB of available memory) Connectivity: 5 USB, 1 FireWire, optical digital audio output, video input (S-Video), ExpressCard, PCMCIA Pre-installed with Windows Vista Home Premium (with Media Center capabilities); includes remote control and wireless keyboard, mouse Processor, Memory, and Motherboard Hardware Platform: PC Processor: 2 GHz Intel Core Duo Number of Processors: 2 RAM: 3000 MB RAM Type: DDR2 SDRAM Hard Drive Size: 500 GB Type: Serial ATA Cases and Expandability Size (LWH): 7 inches, 25.3 inches, 16.5 inches Weight: 35 pounds Product Description When space is at a premium, the Sony VAIO VGC-LT23E all-in-one desktop PC offers a slender, space-saving design that will complement your living space while also providing a powerful home computing platform with an integrated widescreen LCD display. Reminiscent of a classic glass picture frame, this remarkably thin All-in-One PC is enclosed in a transparent polycarbonate frame, giving it a stunning, floating effect. Wired connections are minimized (with the integrated Wi-Fi LAN and included wireless keyboard and mouse) to enhance its clutter-free design, and it can be wall-mounted for a chic presentation. In addition to its computing prowess, this all-in-one desktop also doubles as a 22-inch LCD HDTV, with built-in NTSC (standard) and ATSC (high-definition) tuners. This All-in One also features Sony's XBRITE-HiColor panel technology for brighter imagery and more vibrant colors. It has a built-in DVD burner and Sony's Click to DVD software so you can create a digital entertainment library for personal viewing at your convenience. Video conferencing has never been easier, thanks...

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HP Photosmart eStation All-in-One (CQ140A#B1H) Review

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(More customer reviews)OK, I would actually go for more of a 3 1/2 star rather than a 3 or 4. (UPDATE: I would go with more of a 4 1/2 after a week of use and getting used to how this works and figuring in how it fits into the home.)
First off this is a home device. This is not something that you want for an office. That being said, if you have it in your mind that this is a device for the home, then your perceptions of this will change.
Also this a hybrid device, so as such, you really have to look at each part and see if they are worth it.
The printer sans touchscreen. The printer itself can be used to Scan, Copy and Print, all wirelessly, and with a built in double sided printing module. The prints seem to look good and it prints fast. Photo prints looked fairly good as well. Replacement ink cartridges run around $10 for the regular capacity (bout 300 prints) to around $27 for the XL (about 750 prints). I do like that each color has its own cartridge so you only need to replace what you run out of. I can even use the HP iPrint app on my iPod touch and print PDFs, and photos from there. I can also scan directly to the iPod using the App. When Apple does the Airprint in the new iOS 4.2 it should also support printing from many more apps. What was especially neat was that when I used Docs to Go and choose to open a PDF from there in the iPrint app, I could print it. The printer also has the ability to use the ePrint feature without the tablet, which enables just about anything sent to a specific email address for your printer to print. Say you were at a local hotspot reading an article that lets you email it to somebody . . you need to go and want a copy of the article for some reason . . just email it to your printer and when you get home it will be there in the paper tray waiting when you get home. Overall, I would compare this to other $200 to $250 dollar printers out there for this functionality. However while I'm doing all this, somebody could be using the tablet to browse the web.
Which leads to a brief review of the tablet itself. Now I've used an iPad and let me tell you this is no iPad. That being said, a better comparison would be other $150 android based tablets out there that are this size. (UPDATE: I would compare this more with a NOOK with some extra bells and whistles - I talked to a manager at the local staples about it. He stated that he was just at a conference where the HP rep indicated it would have more android capabilities towards the first part of 2011).
It has the standard Android buttons, headphone jack, volume up and down, power, a mini USB port, and SD card slot. The screen is like that of an iPod or iPad in that it is based on the touch receptive glass (not sure of the fancy technical name for this). Yahoo and Barns & Noble must have paid a bundle as it is very centric to them, which is a annoying at first, but you can actually remove or at least hide some of this by customizing your home screens and favorite apps. Also if you start thinking of it as a 7" Nook with some extras then you'll be happier. Fortunately there is a generic email client under the hood so that you can set it up with something other than Yahoo Mail (almost returned it right there). I have it set up for both my wife's and my Gmail accounts and we can switch accounts easily to see our mail. There are a handful of apps built in that are nice such as QuickOffice for viewing MS Office files (no editing tho) and PDFs. There's also a calculator, web browser, RSS News feader (limited though),and a Facebook app that I like better than the one on my iPod Touch. There are also a number of other apps that are not the Print Apps. I Would like to see a Twitter App, and a YouTube App as well as some simple games like Sudoku, or even a (cough cough) a Kindle App.
HP has it's own custom Android skin and you can only download apps that it has listed. Most of which are the ePrint Apps as they call them. There are lots of these for all the different holidays, kids activities, recipes, etc. When you consider this a home device, these apps can be nice to quickly print off an activity for the kids to do if they are driving you nuts and none of the coloring books you have are good enough for them as . . oh sorry . . .let me get back on focus. I've never been a big facebook user, mostly as I don't care enough to take the time to turn on my computer and I don't care for the app on the iPod. I've actually check my facebook a couple of times this weekend and even replied to my sister for once. Anyway. the device can be a bit sluggish when using the web browser or news headline apps, but seems fairly responsive in the email, facebook, reading ebooks, and eprint apps. You can also print from the device when it's not docked, and control scanning as well. By the way, YES you can scan photos directly to an inserted SD card slot. This can be handy when grandma comes by with photos she's taken and didn't think about getting you a copy or getting you the digital file. Just pop'em in and scan them to the SD card. No need to turn on the computer.
When the tablet is connect you can then do eFax as well. No remember this is a HOME device and not an office device. Because you can send/receive 20 faxed pages per month for free. After that you can still do more, but there is a charge for it. That being said, in the past 2 years I've rarely sent or received and faxes. Only when we were taking advantage of the lower rates and decided to refinance our house. I probably went over, but there is no phone line where we have our printers set up and with the previous print/scan/copy/fax, I would have to pull a very taut phone line to it, make sure the kids weren't anywhere around to run it to the line and knock it all over, and pray that it would work. For me the 20 page monthly limit of efax is a non issue and is actually a plus. (UPDATE: I was also looking at Windows 7 and there is a built in fax application there. I can plug my laptop into a phone line and scan wireless the documents as a PDF and attach them to the fax. I little bit more fuss than using a doc feeder as you scan each page separately BUT that's all I really need.)
Would I buy this for an office? Absolutely NO.
Would I buy this again for the home? Probably. Mind you, I've only had this two days. I like what I've seen so far, but I still feel guilty about spending this much money. It is really cool tho. (UPDATE: Yes I would buy it again, provided I like the idea of getting a bundle of the Printer with essentially a powered up Nook with some extra capabilities.)
(UPDATE: After using the printer several days I was having a problem with ePrint from HP saying that the printer wasn't connected for email printing even though everything worked in my house. After reading the forums, I ended up disabling the power saver using the IP address for the printer in my home network. Then turning the printer itself (not the Zeen) off then back on and it has been up and running since. Seems like this is a problem with the printer going to sleep and HP's servers not being able to wake it up to print remotely. But I have it working now so that's a relief. Seems this a problem that effects ALL the HP printers capable of ePrinting and is not specifically a problem with this printer.)

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A stylish design isn\'t the only thing that sets the HP Photosmart e-Station All-in-One apart. This workhorse delivers full Web browsing with high-performance printing, copying and scanning, and its detachable 7" full-color touchscreen puts wireless Web browsing and remote printing in your hands. The HP Photosmart e-Station has print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute black and 32 ppm color and integrated wireless 802.11b/g/n so you can print and even fax from multiple PCs in your home. You can print Snapfish photos, coupons, movie tickets and other great Web content without a PC using print apps and the HP TouchSmart screen, and HP ePrint makes it easy to send photos, documents and more from any mobile device directly to this all-in-one. The HP Photosmart e-Station has a 125-sheet input tray, a 20-sheet auto-engaging photo tray, automatic 2-sided printing and a flatbed scanner that lets you scan 3D objects and documents up to 8.5" x 11.7" . You can also print borderless photos up to 8.5" x 11" . Individual inks and high-capacity cartridges help cut down on printing costs, and this Energy Star-qualified inkjet printer helps you conserve energy. WHY BUY?

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HP TouchSmart 300-1125 All-in-One PC (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I just purchased this computer from Amazon and received it quickly. The computer itself is surprisingly solid (and heavy), but also very slim and visually appealing. It's a very sleek looking computer. Think of it looking like a black Mac computer. The speakers are on the front of the computer and there's a webcam at the top. Now, about the touch screen: It's amazing! Although I've used touchscreens with XP before, it never seemed to be very smooth. Windows 7 is the first operating system use a native touch screen feature and it works very well. You can navigate around the screen like an ipad. So for those of you accustomed to zooming in and out, scrolling and clicking, this works very much like those. This feature is particularly nice when looking at pictures of reading news articles online. It's neat to scroll through pictures with your fingers and you can rotate the pictures too. Your computer instantly becomes a good ereader. I have a tendency to stand at my computer (so I am not sitting all day) and this computer works well to accommodate that too.
There's very little to set up for the first time and it's VERY easy. There are no cables! The only cable is for the ac and if you're like me, a wired ethernet connection (but this computer does have wireless b/g/n.
It's nice that HP includes the sleek, black, wireless mouse/keyboard to use. When you want to use them for the first time, just pull out the battery paper and press connect. Mine connected instantly. The keyboard keys are about as soft as a laptop's.
Microsoft (and computer companies) have tried desperately for years to make a computer seem like an entertainment device for use in the living room or kitchen, which is a contrast to the dull office and business-like settings that many computers are used for. For the first time, I feel like this computer actually would be complementary to the living room or kitchen and it would perform well there too. This has a built in tuner (though I haven't tried it yet) and HP advertises it as being friendly for reading recipes (there are even recipe apps). I never liked Vista much and Seven is very easy to navigate. I have not transferred files from my XP computer yet, so I'll report back when that it is accomplished.
I played sample video on the computer and a dvd and both look smooth and flawless. I tried to bog down the computer with running many things at once and it continued to work fine.
It is an energy star certified computer and after being on for a few hours already, the computer has almost no heat coming from the screen.
The only thing (so far) that I would like HP to have included would have been the wall mount. You can buy it separately on Amazon Wall Mount Adapter for Ts Vesa. Although it's on my desk, for standing up so much, I am thinking that it might be better if it were mounted on the wall a few inches higher than it is. My main critique so far is that HP should have made the whole screen height adjustable. It's not. It just sits at the same height. This should be a consideration for you if you buy a touchscreen, because as nice as it is, the touch screen will not be used if you sit far from the computer or it's at a strange height. Even though it's nice that the computer doesn't come loaded with lots of junk software that will expire in a month or so, I wish it had come with a trial of Microsoft Office or something. Until I install Office, I can't even open up a Word document in my email. The other option for buying Office is using Open Office [openoffice dot org], which is like Microsoft Office, but free (and it's legal too). It comes loaded with 30 [CORRECTION 60 ]days of Norton antivirus.
UPDATE: 8/23/10
I have been using this more and the more I use it, the more I like it. You have to practice a little bit with the touch feature to get accurate, but there is a way to change the setting, so you can make it "looser" and you don't have to be extremely precise in order to click on boxes, buttons, tabs, etc.
Windows Media Center: This integrates nicely with this computer (I hesitate to say machine since it's so elegant). A remote control is included and it works very nicely. It looks like a regular tv remote, but you can easily go through all your music, albums, etc, using it.
The only other downside I can see so far with this all in one (and others too) is that it's a little harder to upgrade it and/or repair it. However, this machine has 4gb of ram and it can be upgraded to 8gb. But except for that, you really can't upgrade it. I don't need a BluRay player, but it would have been nice for the drive to be one, so I'm prepared for the future. But I'm sure a year from now external bluray players will be relatively inexpensive. Since it's an HD screen, it does look very clear.
I also would like it to have an hdmi connection. It does include a tv tuner though.
UPDATE: 8/26/10
My worst nightmare for this computer has come true. Its speakers stopped working today! After speaking with HP (who had good/helpful tech support), it was determined that there is a hardware issue with my computer and...mine needs to be returned. Obviously, if speakers were not built into the monitor, it would be easy to replace the speakers, but not in this case. It's also true, that this is a very minor issue (in comparison to it have a serious problem); it's important enough though that for a computer that is less than a month old it should not be having. With the issue only being speakers, my belief in HP has not been shattered (yet), since this is my first HP computer (previous ones Dell/Toshiba). I mentioned earlier in the review that it's convenient for space to have an all in one, but if even ONE problem happens (bad speakers for example), then the whole computer needs to be fixed/taken in to be fixed. The more modular parts are then it's easier to fix. For example, it's convenient on a netbook if you have an external dvd drive and the drive breaks because you can just replace the drive and not the whole computer.
With that said, I am sad that this needs to be returned and I am thinking that I will probably give it another go and try the same computer again. I will need to contemplate it further, since these kinds of events can happen at random and I may have just been the person to have it.
With this current problem, I dropped my rating from five to four stars.
UPDATE: 8/29/10
I am happy to say that just as I was on the verge of returning this computer to Amazon, the speakers are now working again! I don't know what happened. I spoke to HP for some time the other day and they took over my computer remotely and it didn't work then either. They checked to be sure it wasn't muted and that the drivers and everything were updated. I have no idea. So I'm happy it's working again. It's unfortunate it is working after I deleted everything on it! Here's the easy way though to transfer everything from your XP computer to windows 7: just buy an external hard drive (I loved my seagate) and save everything on it. Plug it your windows 7 computer and install the backup software from the hard drive. Then just go into your hard drive and literally copy everything in it (just highlight My Documents and all the music/pics in it). When Windows 7 is transferring it to your new computer it will ask if you want the pictures to be put into Documents (which is the new name for My Documents) and Pictures (which is now separate from My Pictures which were part of My Documents before). Within twenty minutes, my whole 100 gb hard drive was transferred (might have been less time than that).
UPDATE: 9/23/10
The computer weighs around 22-25 pounds, so it's not a lightweight little thing. There are two usb ports on the right side and a memory card reader on the left. The card reader works great for quickly uploading pics. The screen is solid and some kind of plastic. So it's not soft like an lcd screen, but it's not glass either. The computer comes with a remote (which looks like a tv remote) and it's surprisingly nice to use. When using Windows media player, you can scroll through all of your albums, artists, etc., using the remote. The remote does not appear to work much for anything else (except Media Player). However, you can use it to adjust volume, which is handy if you're across the room or you use your computer as your main music player. You don't need another additional one from another company and install it since it's nice it's included here. One REALLY nice feature I like when using my computer though is to turn off the screen with the remote. Whenever you want to put the computer to sleep, just press power on the remote and the screen goes off instantly. When you move the mouse, the screen will come back on instantly too.
I have learned that there are certain things which are really nice for touching the screen with and other times it's less necessary. For example, when typing a document it's not practical to keep your hands on the keyboard and then lift them up to go to file, print, etc. However, touching the screen is very nice for visual activities, such as scrolling through your pictures, or looking for a file. It's also nice to use the the electronic keyboard that comes up on the screen (it sits on the side of the screen unobtrusively) and if you need to enter some numbers (say credit card numbers) it's easy to hold your card up to the screen and just type on the keyboard on the screen. There's no looking up and down at the keyboard for numbers or anything. I find it's easier to do this than just memorizing the physical keyboard's numbers (as I previously used). The touch screen feature is very accurate and you can adjust the sensitivity.
If you are considering the value of the touch screen feature, I recommend that you go to a store and see if you might like it or not.
I will update this review as I use this more.

Click Here to see more reviews about: HP TouchSmart 300-1125 All-in-One PC (Black)

HP TouchSmart 300-1125 PC. Genuine Windows7 Home Premium 64-bit - makes everyday tasks simple and makes new things possible; AMD Athlon II 600e Quad-Core Processor; 2.20GHz; AMD RS780MN Chipset; 2MB L2 Cache; 4GB PC3-8500 DDR3 SDRAM memory (2x2048 GB for ultimate performance); 1 Terabyte 5400RPM Serial ATA hard drive; Slot-load SuperMulti DVD Burner with LightScribe Technology 8x DVD-R, 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 6x DVD R DL, 5x DVD-RAM, 8x DVD-ROM, 24x CDR, 24x CDRW, 24x CD-ROM; ATI Radeon HD 3200 Integrated Graphics; 10/100/1000Base-T network interface;Integrated Bluetooth and Wireless LAN (802.11b/g/n) featuring Single-band (2.4Ghz) 2x2 MIMO technology; Integrated High Definition Audio with 2.0 sound capabilities High-performance 2.0 Speakers; Built in HDTV Tuner: watch, pause, rewind, and record live TV; Adjustable webcam and built-in microphone array; Touch-enabled 20 diagonal HD LCD Display with Brightview technology.

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MSI AE1900-14SUS 18.5-Inch Desktop - Black Review

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(More customer reviews)I read the specs, liked the touch screen idea, so i bought it.
I open the box, hook it up, start it, and come to find out it's the NON touch screen model.
the reason i bought it was for the touch screen,,, going to see if i can get a refund.

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MSI AE1900-14SUS Desktop Intel Atom 230 1.60 GHz - 1 GB DDR2 SDRAM - Gigabit Ethernet - 18.50

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HP TouchSmart IQ526 Desktop PC (2.2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 Processor, 4 GB RAM, 640 GB Hard Drive, DVD Drive, Vista Premium) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This computer is working well. I was skeptical about buying it, since my laptop was not even a year old, but I'm glad I made the change. It's very fast - almost instant on. The Touchsmart feature is not too practical. The 22" screen is more comfortable several feet away. Can't reach the screen, so I optimized it for the mouse. I did look at the Touchsmart software and found it of little interest. The large screen is very practical for my needs, though. I have plenty of table space right in front of me, rather than filling it with computer.
The cordless keyboard works very well. Lot of times the cordless equipment doesn't keep up with my typing. Love the larger delete key. The mouse is a bit stiff, but it operates mouse-intensive games fine.
All my software and wireless printer set up easily, as did internet connections. The little cover on the ports is a bit difficult to remove and replace. The shiny finish is quite a dust enhancer. Somewhere the black frame got scratched at the bottom of the screen right in the middle.
I like the HP Pocket Media plug-in backup drives. The HP website shows the drive as an accessory to the 500 series Touchsmart. I phoned their sales people twice to ask about drive capacity and where the drive was inserted into this unit, and both confirmed the PC had a slot in the top, so I ordered the 500gb drive from HP at the same time I ordered the PC from Amz. PC arrived, and there is no slot. Another call to HP revealed that only the 800 series accommodates this drive. So I have to attach it via USB. The whole idea of the Pocket Media is that they slide right into their own slots in the PCs for which they are made. I found it interesting that both the people and the website at HP were sloppy about this accessory. HP is very generous about returns, but I wanted the larger capacity drive, so I kept it. By the way, this is the second HP computer I've had for which these plug-in drives were misrepresented on their website. First time it happened, a couple computers ago, I could not get anybody to acknowledge the error and correct the site.

Click Here to see more reviews about: HP TouchSmart IQ526 Desktop PC (2.2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 Processor, 4 GB RAM, 640 GB Hard Drive, DVD Drive, Vista Premium)

Redesigned with a next-generation, touch-enabled 22-inch high-definition LCD screen, the HP TouchSmart IQ526 all-in-one desktop PC is designed to fit wherever life happens: in the kitchen, family room, or living room. With one touch you can check the weather, download your e-mail, or watch your favorite TV show. It's also designed to maximize energy, with a power-saving Intel Core 2 Duo processor and advanced power management technology, as well as material efficiency--right down to the packaging. It has a sleek piano black design with elegant espresso side-panel highlights, and the HP Ambient Light lets you set a mood--or see your keyboard in the dark.

The TouchSmart IQ526 comes with a bevy of special software features to make your computing life a breeze, including TouchSmart Video and Photo for quickly sharing your snapshots and videos to the web, TouchSmart Calendar for helping your family manage its busy, overlapping schedule, and TouchSmart Notes for both text and voice notes right at your fingertips. And it comes with a wireless keyboard and wireless optical mouse to help you keep clutter to a minimum.
It's powered by the 2.2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 processor, which boosts speed, reduces power requirements, and saves on battery life. It also offers a fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed and 2 MB L2 cache It has a built-in webcam and microphone for video chats with family and friends, and it includes integrated stereo speakers that produce crisp, clear audio from DVD movies and downloaded video purchases. Other features include a 500 GB hard drive, 4 GB of RAM (8 GB maximum), a dual-layer DVD±RW drive, the latest in Wi-Fi networking (802.11n as well as backward compatibility with 802.11b/g), Bluetooth wireless technology, Gigabit Ethernet, and an Nvidia GeForce 9300M GS graphics with up to 2010 MB of total available memory.
The pre-installed 64-bit version of Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium (Service Pack 1) includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center. In addition to easily playing your DVD movies and managing your digital audio library, you'll be able to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV). Vista also integrates new search tools throughout the operating system, includes new parental control features, and offers new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures.
HP and the Environment HP is committed to providing products that are designed with the environment in mind, and all HP TouchSmart IQ 500 series PCs have earned Energy Star and EPEAT Silver designations. They also use HP power management technology can reduce PC energy use up to 45 percent, and their chassis design uses 55 percent less metal and 37 percent less plastic than standard PCs and monitors. To top it off, the new packaging design greatly reduces plastic foam cushioning materials.
The Basics
Processor: The Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 processor has a 2.2 GHz processor speed, fast 800 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and 2 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)
With two computational execution cores in a single processor, it provides greater system response when running multi-threaded applications simultaneously with no significant increase in power consumption. It's optimized for multitasking and is ready to support the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system. It can simultaneously run multiple demanding applications--such as graphics-intensive games or serious number-crunching business productivity applications--while downloading music or running virus-scanning security programs in the background. Some of the advanced Intel innovations of the Core 2 Duo processor include:
Smart Memory Access: Improves system performance by hiding memory latency, thus optimizing the use of available computer data bandwidth to provide data to the processor when and where it is needed.
Advanced Digital Media Boost: Effectively doubles the execution speed for instructions used widely in multimedia and graphics applications.
Dynamic Power Coordination: Coordinates Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology and idle power-management state (C-states) transitions independently per core to help save power.
Deeper Sleep with Dynamic Cache Sizing: Saves power by flushing cache data to system memory during periods of inactivity to lower CPU voltage.


Hard Drive: The 640 GB Serial ATA hard drive (7200 RPM) provides more than enough space for storing all your photos and home movies, your digital audio library, and downloaded movies and TV shows. This SATA hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to Firewire and USB 2.0.

Memory: The 4 GB of installed RAM (PC6400, 2 x 2 GB) helps boost the amount of available video RAM that's shared with this desktop's video card. It also offers a fast 800 MHz speed and an amazing 8 GB maximum RAM capacity (4 x 2 GB). To receive the faster data transfer benefits of the dual-channel DDR2 RAM, any RAM additions require memory modules of same capacity and clockspeed.

DVD/CD Drive: This multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with writing both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features 6x DVD±R DL Write Once, 8x DVD+R, 8x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 6x DVD-RW, 16x DVD-ROM, 24x CD-R, 24x CD-RW, and 40x CD-ROM speeds.

Keyboard & Mouse: This TouchSmart PC comes with an HP low-profile Wireless Keyboard with numeric keypad as well as an HP Wireless laser mouse.
Screen, Video & Audio The touch-enabled 22-inch widescreen BrightView LCD offers height/tilt adjustment for optimal viewing. It offers a native resolution of 1440 x 900 pixels. Video is powered by the Nvidia GeForce 9300M GS graphics/video card, which provides 256 MB of dedicated video RAM and offers up to 2010 MB of total available graphics memory as allocated by Windows Vista. Enabled by PureVideo HD, movies come to life with outstanding picture clarity, ultra-smooth video and vivid color. The lifelike images have up to six times the detail of standard DVD movies. Delivering state-of-the-art graphics performance, GeForce 9300M GS graphics card is sure to give you the power and performance you crave to play the hottest DirectX 9 and DirectX 10 titles. Its 16x full-screen antialiasing technology delivers superior quality along with astounding performance and since it's optimized for Windows Vista. The integrated audio card is configurable to 6-speaker surround sound, and it can provide two-channel audio via its integrated 4W speakers.
Networking, Connectivity & Expansion Be ready for the next platform in wireless connectivity with the integrated tri-mode Wi-Fi chip. Based on the draft 802.11n Wi-Fi specification, it offers up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range as existing 802.11g wireless. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found in older home routers). You'll enjoy wireless connectivity to a wide range of peripherals with the built-in Bluetooth. This TouchSmart PC also offers ultra-fast Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000). It comes with the following external connectors:
5 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players (2 front, 3 rear)
1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
2 headphone jack (front
1 line-in and 1 line-out jack (back)
1 IR receiver
10/100/1000 Ethernet
5-in-1 memory card reader (Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD Picture Card)

Operating System Windows Vista Home Premium (64-bit version) is the operating system for users with advanced computer needs, and it includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center for watching DVD movies and accessing your digital audio library. You can also use Windows Media Center to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV) and to access new kinds of online entertainment content. Computers that include Windows Vista Home Premium and an auxiliary Windows SideShow display will also allow you to access key data even when your computer is off. It is also easier than ever to share files between other PCs in your household and to manage your laptop computer settings to more securely connect via Wi-Fi.
Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family's use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.
Preloaded Software
HP MediaSmart Software Suite: Your one-stop multimedia and entertainment center to create photo slideshows, share personal videos, listen to your favorite music playlists and watch DVD movies.
muvee Reveal Premium: Automatically create professional looking home videos and burn to DVD.
Cyberlink DVD Suite: Automatically fix and edit videos and create CDs and DVDs. Edit, burn and archive data to discs.
Microsoft Works 9: Includes a word processor, spreadsheet, database and calendar.
Microsoft Office Home and Student Edition 2007 (60-day trial version).
Adobe Reader 8: Read and print PDF files.
Norton Internet Security 2009 protects your PC and your identity when you email, bank and shop online; 60 days of protection updates included.

Dimensions & Weight This desktop measures 21 x 17.4 x 2.6 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 24 pounds.
What's in the Box This package contains the HP TouchSmart IQ526 desktop PC, wireless keyboard, wireless mouse, and power cord. Every HP TouchSmart PC comes with special HP Total Care, which includes 24/7 service and support for the first year via HP's North America call center and dedicated toll-free telephone support in English and Spanish in the United States.

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Compaq Presario CQ1-1130 All-in-One 18.5-Inch Desktop PC - Black Review

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(More customer reviews)I checked out this computer in the stores before I bought it, comparing it with other computers that rated about the same in Consumer Reports. This computer got the overall best buy rating. I found it for the best price on Amazon and ordered it. It came within 3 days, even though shipping was supposed to take 5. It was well packaged and arrived in great condition. I am very happy with my purchase.

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The Compaq Presario CQ1-1130 is an All-in-One PC that includes all your computing essentials and a few extras built-in at a price worth cheering about. It fits the PC and display into a slim, easy to use, and affordable package that meets your basic computing needs and fits in any environment so you can save and look good doing it.

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Fast 3.2Ghz HP DC7100 Tower PC with 17" HP LCD Monitor, XP Professional 1GB Memory 80GB Hard Drive, CDRW/DVD Combo Drive, Mouse, Keyboard and Wireless Card Review

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(More customer reviews)My mother's house was hit by lightning and fried her ages old computer. She had no money to buy a new one so I found this inexpensive one. She had a few minor problems and didn't receive the monitor, but the company was very helpful and sent the monitor out the next day, they also told her if she any problems to give them a call and they would walk her through them. I was very impressed with their customer service which is so rare today!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Fast 3.2Ghz HP DC7100 Tower PC with 17" HP LCD Monitor, XP Professional 1GB Memory 80GB Hard Drive, CDRW/DVD Combo Drive, Mouse, Keyboard and Wireless Card

HP Off-Lease desktop PC. Professionally refurbished and upgraded to meet present demands. This system handles everyday tasks such Internet, Office, Music, Movies as good as any newer HP PC. At the same time you get to keep a bunch for other things. It comes with a fresh Windows XP Pro sp3 Operating System. "Fresh" means that it was installed from a scratch, loaded with necessary drivers and productivity software only. You will find no promotional junk or any useless software designed to slow performance of your PC. Thoroughly tested, fully functional. May have scratches/scuffs on the outside. Together with great cost benefit, 60 days warranty and 7 Days Money Back, it makes great sense to purchase your next PC from us. We are small company and work with all our clients individually. Our reputation and customer feedback are the most valuable asset of the company. 7 Days Money Back Guarantee, 60 Days Hardware Warranty and Support. In Stock. 1 business day handling time.

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MSI AE2220-25SUS 21.6-Inch Black Desktop PC (Windows 7 Home Premium) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This review is being updated as of late March 2010 to maintain accuracy. MSI has added models to their already long lineup. The TV tuner in my first 25SUS failed, the keyboard was DOA, and Amazon replaced the entire unit. More on that below, but I have to give Amazon 5 stars for their outstanding customer service. As always, be sure of your warranty and return policies. Plus: Lots of good user comments at the bottom of this review.
This review is about MSI's Wind Top "Multi Touch" (touch screen) AE2220 25SUS. The 2220 Series now apparently has seven models, the 25, 26, 27, 66, and 69SUS, and now the 236 and 237US. You can also find the 1900, the 2010, the 2020 and the 2200 series in MSI's ALL-In-One line of PC's. The here reviewed AE2220 25SUS probably qualifies as the top model of the entire line as of this date (now see AE2220 237US also). If you do a search for this specific model you will find a very good (and very positive) review at Benchmark Reviews, one which also links to an exhaustive Lavalys EVEREST configuration report. And as noted below, check YouTube.
Not to confuse the issue, but there is also an "AE 2220 Hi Fi" glowingly reviewed on the web, although the model is NOT listed on MSI's U.S. website as of this date and does NOT appear to be available in the states. "Hi Fi" elements may be built into the 25SUS. A highly configurable and more expensive AE 2240 model is supposed to appear in the second quarter of 2010. MSI has also shown concept 3D and hybrid projector machines. MSI breeds computers like rabbits. There are 21 models in the Wind Top line on MSI's US site (msicomputer) right now, and it ain't gonna get any simpler unless they start shooting some of them.
Be aware that as of the date of this review the AE2220 pictures on Amazon are outdated, including those of the rear panel. I have posted some user pictures which should be of some help. If you do a search for this unit you will find pictures of a black rectangle mounted in clear plexiglass, and that seems to be what is shipping. It is what I received. Further, the specifications listed on Amazon (and elsewhere) are sometimes incomplete and incorrect. Go to msicomputer (the U.S. site, not the Global) to very carefully check the specifications of the All-In-One model you are considering. Some have touch screens and some do not; some are XP, some Vista, some Win 7, now there are three 64 bit models; there is a variety of processors, hard drives and on-board memory in the Wind Top line, and I have found no way to do a side-by-side comparison. The 25SUS and the 2220-237US may be the only ones with a built-in hi definition capable TV tuner.
What is it? This is an "All-In-One" (AIO) PC, that new generation of computer which combines all of its components--save for the keyboard, mouse and power supply--into the same space occupied by (in this case) a 21.5" diagonal monitor. It really is a hybrid: It is a quite powerful "multi" touch screen PC running Windows 7 Home Premium 32 bit; it is a computer monitor, because it has inputs; it is a high definition capable television with a built-in tuner; it is a high definition video playback device with a built in Blue Ray DVD player and it is also an advanced audio playback device with incredible on board sound. Wireless 802.11b/g/n integrates it seamlessly into your network.
AE2220 25SUS: Windows 7 Home Premium 32 bit, Intel® Core 2 Duo T6600 (2.2GHz), NVIDIA® GeForce 9300 Integrated Graphics (256MB VRAM), 21.5" Multi-Touch Widescreen (16:9), 1920 x 1080, 1080p, 4GB DDRII 800MHz SDRAM, 500GB SATA2 Hard Disk Drive, Blu-Ray Disc(tm) playback, CD/DVD playback/burning (no Light Scribe mentioned), 802.11b/g/n (Wireless), HD Audio, 2.0 Speakers with SRS Premium Sound, 1 x S/PDIF-OUT, 1 x Microphone-IN, 1 x Headphone-OUT, 1.3MP Webcam with Microphone, 4-in-1 Card Reader, 6 x USB 2.0, 1 x eSATA IN, 1 x VGA Monitor-IN, 1 x HDMI Monitor-IN, 1 x LAN jack (RJ45). Dimensions 21.81" W x 15.89" H x 2.42 D", about 26 pounds.
Ships with the All-In-One CPU, wireless keyboard and mouse, external power supply, remote control, HD TV antenna, antenna to coax adapter, documents, NO OS media.
You can put it on your desk, which is really cool, but this thing is just begging to be placed on your kitchen counter or hung on a wall. It's being sold as a piece of interactive art, and it's an attractive idea. You must disassemble and remove the support stand to install a standard VESA wall mount. I will send you a link to this information if you ask in the comments below. In the kitchen or den it becomes a touch screen source for news, weather, sports or whatever, be it on TV or the Internet; a beautiful display for digital photographs; an Internet radio, with superb on board sound; a complete media center with high definition DVD playback and, well, on and on. Further, among competing models by other manufacturers the MSI Wind Top line offers exceptional value.
This is not really a gaming machine, although it will run up to mid-level games quite well. True gaming machines generate a lot of heat and therefore need lots of cooling, and the All-In-One configuration is not yet where serious gamers should be looking. This low power consumption PC--something like 90 watts under full load--was NOT built with gamers in mind, and criticizing the 25SUS on this basis is not only silly but a waste of time. One can, however, theoretically hook up a gaming console to this machine through the HDMI port (I have not personally done so) and use it as a 1080p gaming monitor.
Unfortunately I both love this machine and am shaking my head. It should be a 5 star product, but I am docking it 1 star for documentation and 1 for hardware issues to give it a 3.
I started my search for a new desktop with several criteria in mind: I wanted a reasonably powerful Windows 7 64 bit machine (the 25SUS is 32 bit) and I really wanted a built-in TV tuner. I looked at everything in the all-in-one genre, particularly Sony and HP; I liked the Sony, and then came across this one. It seemed to have everything I wanted in a compact design and at an incredible price point for what was offered, particularly the port configuration where HP was lacking. Plus, it was cutting edge, sort of. I know MSI components very well, MSI has a terrific reputation and this one was getting very good ink.
Now for the problems. The first lies in MSI's documentation, which is absolutely abysmal ("Yeah, we hear that all the time" an MSI tech told me on one of my calls). When you are looking to buy a product of this caliber you want very good, highly accurate and detailed pre-purchase information, and preferably a simple way to do comparisons among models. You CAN get what appear to be accurate technical details on specific models at MSI's U.S. site (msicomputer), NOT the Global--this is another source of confusion--and I strongly suggest that you do. Still, much of the information on the web is generic, lacking in critical detail, sometimes conflicting and occasionally written in poor English.
Take the operating system. It is listed almost everywhere as "Windows 7 Home Premium", with no reference online or in the manual as to whether it is 32 or 64 bit. You may see the CPU listed as "64 bit capable" but this is irrelevant. Most new computers in this league, including laptops, are today shipping with 64 bit systems. This is not a minor detail. The 25SUS is shipping with a 32 bit system (now three AE 2220 64 bit models at msicomputer, see below), and the only way you can ascertain this is to go into the machine's functions and directly check the specification. I ran the the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor on my machine and it states that the system is 64 bit compatible. Why MSI chose to ship a 32 bit system is anyone's guess, although they may have had reasons for so doing. Further clouding the issue, MSI lists 64 bit drivers on its website alongside the x86 drivers for this machine. So, don't be surprised if 64 bit systems suddenly and spontaneously appear in the Wind Top line...
UPDATE: Apparently in "MSI Speak" if the system spec doesn't specifically state "64 bit" you can assume it's 32 bit. MSI is now listing three "Windows® 7 64 bit Home Premium" models at msicomputer, the AE 2020-098US, the AE2220-236US, and the AE2220-237US. The 237US appears to most closely match the 25SUS in hardware specs, but may now be the top of the line unit given a slightly larger hard drive and the 64 bit operationg system.

A 64 bit bump on the 25SUS would not be for the faint of heart, given the MSI support mess, although we'd like to hear from any of you who are so brave.
OK, so you go to the manual and download it in advance, right? The "manual" for this unit, if it can be called that (Revision V1.1), is for the AE 2220 "series" and is an absolute disaster. It makes no distinction among five models, even though there are significant differences among them. Worse, the "information" therein is incomplete, conflicting and downright inaccurate. Update: MSI now lists a manual Revision 1.2 downloadable for the AE2220 series at msicomputer. The manual is a definite improvement, but is still sorely lacking.
And now let's move on to the hardware problems, which are exemplified in Revision 1.1...
...like MEMORY. The manual specifically states that "2 DDR2 667/ 800 SO-DIMM slots (200 pins/ 1.8V)...Supports the maximum of 8 GB". BUT, online specifications for the 2220 series state that the amount is fixed and CANNOT be changed. In fact there is a removable cover on the back of the machine concealing two 2 GB (4 GB total) chips and no open slots. Whether these can be bumped to 2 x 4 = 8 GB is anyone's guess; as of today Crucial's scanner comes up blank and support is quoting...Read more›

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MSI Wind Top AE2220-25SUS All-in-One Desktop AE2220-25SUS 1102

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eMachines ET1831-05 Desktop (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Well, I just purchased this eMachines ET1831-05, but I have been incredibly impressed. The shipping was super fast (and, no sales tax here in PA!), and setup was a breeze. The computer is fast, quick, and easy to use. Granted, I have had the computer up for less than a day, but it seems to work perfectly so far. Honestly, I don't know why you would need more computer than what this eMachines offers - maybe if you are in to some really intense video games or complicated video editing, you need something greater than this, but don't think because you want to upload a few pictures or videos sometimes that you need to spend hundreds of dollars on a computer. This computer is replacing a Dell that we have had for a good 4 or 5 years, and it is so incredible how much faster, smoother, and quieter this new computer is. Really - just love it so far.
Also, the keyboard and mouse are both very nice. I had wondered whether or not the keyboard had the tabs to make it stand up or whether it was just flat - it does have the tabs to make it stand up if you prefer. Also, the mouse is optical, so no complaints there. Of course, if you didn't already realize it, remember there is no monitor, speakers, or system discs with this computer (I really wish computer manufacturers could just give you the system discs when you buy a computer, but I realize eMachines is not alone in doing this). Again, absolutely no complaints - a great computer for the money.

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A great everyday performer, the eMachines ET1831-05 desktop PC delivers multitasking performance and expansion possibilities. Listen to music, edit digital photography, manage your finances and stay connected to your social networks without breaking the bank. The ET1831-05 includes a large 500 GB hard drive (great for storing your entire music and video library), Intel Celeron processor, a SuperMulti Optical Drive for burning CDs and DVDs, and NVIDIA GeForce 7050 graphics for excellent video playback.
Pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (64-bit version), you'll be able to easily create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files, like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews, help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to.

Key Features The eMachines Desktop PC showcases a black tower design, easy access front ports and powerful everyday performance.

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HP TouchSmart IQ846 Desktop PC Review

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(More customer reviews)I had an HP Pavillion which was, to put it simply, a complete disaster. I swore I'd never buy am HP ever again. In checking out replacements, I looked into some All-In-One's like this one. After careful research (and some trepedation), I decided on this one.
I use the PC as a media server and bedroom TV and it excells at both. As a media server, I get flawless performance streaming music, photos, and video to my DVR's in the living room (DirecTV HR20 and HR21). As an added bonus, however, unlike the similarly outfitted Pavillion, this computer runs DirecTV2PC flawlessly. That means HD Video in my bedroom from my living room DVRs. The DVD/BD player is great, and I love the discrete slot loading mechinism behind the screen. Also, one cable (power) coming from the back beats the usual rats nest of cables around most PCs!
The PC's preformance is lightning quick and I can use Vista as soon as it boots up (no more waiting 10 minutes after boot-up before I can do anything!).
The touchscreen is very responsive and hyper accurate. The HP Touchsmart software is great, but I can use Vista without a mouse with this as well. I can even launch from the quick launch bar with my finger!
The screen is big, bright, and really pretty to look at. The ambient light for the keyboard is customizable and really pretty.
All in all, for TV, media, games, and even some work, this is the best computer out there and well worth the money!
P.S. At 54 pounds, Amazon still delivered for free!!!

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The next-generation, touch-enabled PC combines a 25.5" diagonal hi-def widescreen with a powerful energy efficient Intel Core 2 Duo processor in a single, integrated design.Touch-screen technology puts your digital life at your fingertips with fast, easy access to info, entertainment and social networks.Next-generation HP TouchSmart software simplifies access to photos, videos, music and applications. Quick and easy touch access to your digital world.Includes HP TouchSmart software, webcam, media card reader, and premium speakers for fast, easy access to photos, videos, music and applications.HP wireless keyboard, HP wireless optical mouse, power cord, Cyberlink DVD Suite Deluxe software, Microsoft Works 9, Adobe Reader 8 and Norton Internet Security 2009 with 60 days of complimentary live updates.

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MSI AE2280-008 21.5-Inch All-In-One Multi Touch Screen PC - Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)So this project started off because my wife wanted a wall-mounted computer in our newly remodeled kitchen. She wanted to look up recipes, check her mail, listen to music, and watch tv/movies (DVD, Netflix, and Hulu.
I've been using MSI components for years, so when I found out they made all-in-one systems and got decent reviews other places, I figured I'd give it a try. One bit of warning - Amazon and some other places say this is a wall mountable unit. It absolutely is - IF YOU BUY the wall mount adapter kit. The part number of the kit is 306-6502111-SN1 - it's only $15 but Amazon didn't have it in stock - took me 30 minutes to find somewhere that had it available. Even MSI's store was out of stock.
Next challenge was to put the wall mount kit on. The instructions for the kit were horrible. I couldn't figure out how to get the stand off, but finally found a forum posting. On the inside of the stand there are 4 small screws. Remove these screws and the shiny plastic piece will come off. With this out of the way, you can remove the stand and screw the wall mount kit in the same holes. NOTE: make sure you put the first piece of the wall mount kit on the AIO with the opening facing DOWN!
Once you have the kit, you can either use the kit to mount it straight to the wall, or you can use any VESA 100mm mounting system. I wanted to be able to tilt and move the unit, so I bought a Peerless arm from here on Amazon. The MSI Windtop says it weighs 24 lbs, but it feels heavier so I bought the Peerless PA740 which is rated at 80lbs. It cost a bit more, but with $1000 system on the wall, better safe than sorry! I also picked up a Peerless WSP700 base plate to bridge the gap between 2 studs, but didn't need it.
Once I finally got the Windtop on the wall and turned it on, it's been great. It took about 20 minutes to boot the first time because it needed me to make language choices and connect to the wireless. Note that the touch screen is not active yet during the set phase, so you do need the keyboard and mouse connected. Only pre-loaded software I felt like I wanted to get rid of so far is a 60 day trial of Norton Internet Security. Uninstalled it and got the free Microsoft Security Essentials - took all of 3 minutes.
My best friend was helping me mount it and he commented that the screen looked great. We activated the THX software and then goofed around with the demo songs and Pandora - the speakers have a nice, crisp sound to them. Not a lot of bass, but I wasn't expecting that since there is no room for a sub-woofer.
The multi-touch screen is very responsive in both Windows 7 and the included touch-screen apps (there is a Microsoft Touch Pack and a MSI Touch Pack pre-installed). We were painting with multiple fingers and it worked great. There is a finger gestures tutorial that I haven't finished yet - biggest thing is you can use 2 fingers to zoom in or out like on an iPhone.
When we fired up Windows Media Center, Netflix and some other apps were pre-installed. Logged in to Netflix and watched a bit of Serenity - again the picture and sound were both very good.
Now, today is only day 2, but I've been installing computers and servers for a living for 14 years. So far I am impressed with both the quality of the build and the time they put into making this an easy user experience. Nicely done MSI! If something changes I'll come back to update this review, but right now my wife is happy!

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Core i5-650 3.2GHz, Multi Touch Screen, ATI Radeon HD 5730 1GB DDR3 VRAM, 4GB DDR3 RAM, 640G Hard Drive, Super Multi, 2 X 5W, Hi-Fi 5.1 channel, SRS Premium Sound, Wireless 802.11 b/g/n, 1.3 MP Webcam, HDMI-in, VGA-in, 6 x USB ports, E-SATA, SPDIF

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MSI AE2220-274US 21.5-Inch All-In-One Multi Touch PC LA Dodgers Special Edition - White Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I totally love this PC. It got all the things I wanted and more. We are not from LA but we still got this LA Dodgers edition because I like the white color :) I know, so girly of me. Anyway, they included the antenna for the TV tuner but for some reasons it is not working. I don't know why. I am not worried about it because I can just watch stuff on the internet TV. I love the wireless keyboard and mouse but the keyboard came with some defect. They told me I cannot just have the keyboard swapped. I have to return the whole thing to them so they can give me a new one :( sigh. They did however offer to refund me 15% for the keyboard, or return it all to them and they will fully refund me. I still haven't decided on that one.I might take the 15% refund so I can use that money to get a new keyboard :) Everything about this computer blows and I would have given it a 5 star but coz of the keyboard problem, I docked it one star. All other stuff, this baby is FANTABULOUS!!! Amazon customer service is great!

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MSI Wind Top AE2220-274US 21.5" Core 2 Duo T6600(2.20GHz) 4GB DDR2 640GB HDD Capacity NVIDIA GeForce 9300 Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, HDMI-in, VGA-in, 6 USB, E-SATA, SPDIF

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Lenovo Ideacentre A700 Series 40244BU Desktop (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought a refurb from Lenovo themselves, but it died within two weeks of receiving it and they wouldn't replace it - only refund. Lucky me that Amazon had just put a better model on sale for about $50 less than the slower refurb unit.
I bought this to replace the front tv in my motorhome and to provide PC functions for my oilfield work. I matched this with a desk mount for heavy monitors and it pops in and out of the slot in my motorhome as sweet as you please.
Computer wise, this unit has all the power you need for just about every application except for big graphic hog games like Crysis. When it comes to surfing the net or using it for work it is just incredible.
TV wise, the thing is awesome. The tv card and remote are outstanding and the picture is very very good. The interface is very slick and you can watch Netflix, antenna tv or internet tv as you like.
Lenovo's touch screen functions coupled with Windows 7 native support for touchscreen monitors means you really don't need a mouse or keyboard. If you need a keyboard to fill in a box you just tap the box and an icon for a virtual keyboard pops up. Touch the icon and blammo (!) you have a full size touchscreen keyboard that pops up. I've gotten so used to the touch that I am all the time trying to use that feature on my laptop - which is not a touchscreen.
Why I bought this particular unit over the millions I read about before my purchase: Performance is mid range and should run most apps for the next five years or so. LED LCD monitor should hold up to the abuses of both the Motorhome and the Oilfield ( a double whammy in anyone's book). TV Tuner turns it into a tv for after work. Sleek design looks good in my bus - not a lot of gee-gaws and fluffery here, just a nice thin black frame with only one real button (power on) the rest are touch spots that light up when computer is on, or when you turn the monitor on and off. Keyboard light acts as a nice nightlight for my bus. I'm not sure if it is LED or not, but it makes a nice bit of light under the computer and is really coming in handy. This was the widest screen LED All-in-one PC with the highest performance and a built in TV tuner that you could get for anywhere close to this price. I looked at Asus, Msi, and all the other usual suspects and this unit won hands down.
Whether you are going to use this as your main desktop, a work pc or a tv this is an awesome unit for the money. I'm really glad the one I bought from Lenovo broke so that I could get the faster, cheaper, better unit from Amazon - and they shipped it to me in two days after the first one broke.
Buy this baby, I did and I would do it again.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lenovo Ideacentre A700 Series 40244BU Desktop (Black)

Extra Sensory Controls. Fun is having it all; entertainment at a touch on the all-in-one Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 touchscreen desktop with Lenovo NaturalTouch Panel. The Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 all-in-one has it all; a 23" Full HD widescreen with Lenovo NaturalTouch fingertip touch-screen technology, the smart performance of an Intel Core i5-460M processor with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, JBL designed speakers with Dolby Home Theater and the latest graphics. Plus, with Lenovo Enhanced Experience for Windows 7, the IdeaCentre A700 delivers fast boot and shutdown, rich multimedia capabilities and easy system maintenance tools. All of this at your fingertips.

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ASUS Eee Top ET2010AGT-B017E 20-Inch Touchscreen All-in-One Desktop PC (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this computer for the very specific purpose of being a secondary computer that also had an HDMI in so I could use it as second monitor or hook up to ps3 etc... There are not many all in one touch screens for this price that have an hdmi in and have a better cpu than an atom. If you can get it around 600 with rebate it's not a bad deal. Windows experience rating is 4.7 based on the cpu, everything else on the machine scores 5 or higher. However, this machine is not fast. It is much faster than a netbook, can play full screen high def hulu, youtube no problem. Don't expect it to do too much and you will be happy. It can run office, surf the web, and listen to music but thats about the max for multi tasking because of the 2gb of ram, 4 would have helped quite a bit I think.
It does actually run Left 4 Dead 2 at 720p with all settings on medium really well. So I would use that as your benchmark for gaming. Again this computer is quite capable of day to day tasks but does slow down once in a while and is definitely lacking in the cpu department.
Build quality is ok, the case made some typical plastic creeks when I moved it around but it is a desktop so that shouldn't be too much of an issue. The touchscreen works great. I have also used an hp touchsmart and I would say the asus screen is a little more accurate (although it is the same optical touch technology). The viewing angles on the monitor are not very good but are acceptable at this price level. I have not used the keyboard and mouse that it came with so can't comment on those.
I would say my biggest complains with the system are:
1: The speakers suck. It is a very thin and light all in one, but the speakers are on par with a small laptop.
2: Monitor viewing angles. I know its a cheap unit but its meant to be used at off angle viewing (standing above it in the kitchen etc...). Would have been nice to include higher quality display.
3. Glossy screen. What isn't these days though.
4: CPU not overclockable. I know this is not a common feature but the cpu runs at very low power and heat levels, I think it could easily be pushed a little harder and it would definitely help performance.
Overall I would rate it 3.5 out of 5 (if amazon let me) which is not a bad score. If you keep your expectations reasonable this is a very capable touchscreen all in one at a good price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: ASUS Eee Top ET2010AGT-B017E 20-Inch Touchscreen All-in-One Desktop PC (Black)

Slim. Smart. Simple. The multi-touch 20-inch EeeTop PC ET2010AGT with energy-efficient AMD Athlon II processor and a DirectX 11-enabled ATI Radeon HD graphics processor lets you do your everyday in an extraordinary way. Its slim design is not only compact but also wall mountable making it an ideal fit for any space in your house*. This all-in-one PC delivers HD quality entertainment with a slew of touch-optimized features that gives you quick access to your multimedia files and favorite video streaming websites. The EeeTop PC ET2010AGT also doubles as a display for devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, desktop PCs and more through its HDMI input to give you even more versatility than ordinary PCs.


Key Features
All-in-one Multi-Touchscreen PC with faster, more precise touch navigation (Learn more)
20-inch HD+ 16:9 widescreen (1600 x 900) for a clear, crisp HD visual experience (Learn more)
HD-ready ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470 graphics with DirectX 11 support for enhancedHD multimedia and gaming (Learn more)
AMD Athlon II X2 250u Dual-Core processor with performance-boosting ASUS Super Hybrid Engine(Learn more)
Slim and sleek design with optional VESA-mountable panel for the perfect fit in your home or office*(Learn more)
SRS Premium Sound delivers immersive 3D sound for louder, crystal-clearacoustics(Learn more)
High-speed Wi-Fi networking for faster wireless connectivity (802.11 b/g/n @ 2.4GHz)(Learn more)
HDMI input for using EeeTop PC as a display for your other HDMI output devices(Learn more)
Super Multi DVD drive to watch movies and backup data onto CDs and DVDs easily and quickly
Eee Docking provides intuitive shortcuts for easy access to digital content, services, and software
Unlimited ASUS WebStorage lets you backup, share, and access data for free** (Learn more)
F9 easy recovery for convenient and easy system reinstallation(Learn more)
Complimentary USB keyboard and mouse
Energy Star 5.0 certified with eco-friendly packaging(Learn more)

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Feel the Innovation
HD Entertainment
Slim and Mountable Design
AMD Processor and ASUS Super Hybrid Engine
Internet and Connectivity
Quick Recovery with Just One Key
Eco-friendly Inside and Out
Customer Warranty
1 year limited parts and labor global warranty
30-Day Flawless Display Guarantee: If you discover one defective bright dot within 30 days of purchase, ASUS will replace the panel at no cost
Free one-way standard shipping
24/7 tech support
What's in the Box The entire EeeTop PC ET2010AGT package contains a warranty information card, EeeTop PC ET2010AGT, Keyboard, Mouse, AC Adapter, Power Cord, and Quick Start Guide
EeeTop PC ET2010AGT (Black)
USB Keyboard
USB Mouse
Quick Start Guide
Warranty Information Card
AC Adapter
Power Cord
Specifications
Operating System: Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (64 bit)
Display: 20-inch HD+ 16:9 display (1600 x 900)
Touchscreen: Multitouch Optical Touch Technology
CPU: AMD Athlon II X2 250u (dual-core; 1.6GHz)
Graphics: ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470 with GDDR3 512MB VRAM
Wireless Data Network: 802.11 b/g/n (@ 2.4GHz)
LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit LAN
Memory: 2GB DDR3(up to 8GB)
Hybrid Storage: 500GB 7200RPM HDD + Unlimited ASUS WebStorage**
Optical Drive: Super Multi DVD drive
Camera: 1.3M Pixels
Audio: 2 x Hi-Fi Stereo Speakers, SRS Premium Sound, Built-in digital microphone
Storage Cards: 2-in-1 (SD, SDHC/MMC)
Input/ Output: 1 x HDMI Input 6 x USB 2.0 ports 1 x 2-in-1 card reader (SD/SD, HC/MMC) 2 x audio jacks (Headphone & Mic-in), 1 x LAN port
Size: 19.6 x 14.7 x 0.9 ~2.0" –inches (W x D x H)
Weight: 12.21 lbs
Color: Black
Accessories: USB wired keyboard and mouse
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor * Mount kit sold separately. ** Internet connection is required. ASUS WebStorage is a complimentary trial service for 60 days after registration. Actual storage capacity varies by model. All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. Product may not be exactly as shown in images.

Click here for more information about ASUS Eee Top ET2010AGT-B017E 20-Inch Touchscreen All-in-One Desktop PC (Black)

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HP TouchSmart 600-1050 23-Inch Black Desktop PC (Windows 7 Home Premium) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First Touchscreen - occasionally it takes a couple tries to get touch response.
buy screen wipes , you have finger oil and this is one big black mirror
we got this to replace a cluttered noisy desktop, it has no fans = no noise and is very compact, and at 1920x1080 true HD for the 23" screen, its very productive workspace, very fast.
Problem... It makes such a good media center that there is family competition to use it. It seems to work wireless "n" speeds so Netflix and hulu are stutter-free prefect, its bigger than the kitchen TV. Someone is always using it.
at 1200 bucks it was 2/3 the cost of the system it replaced.
my advice: buy 2 of them.
edit update - we just ordered #2 since the first one never left the Kitchen & Livingroom area, where it will likely live out its useful days so Dads that buy it, set your expectations - Recipies, Netflix, Hulu, Email and facebook, and skype 2 way video ( hi mom! ) youteube, ABC full length shows and Vevo ( Vevo looks amazing ) will rule along with the touch screen magazine catalogs and lookbooks at ctndigital. youtube of this touchsmart doing amazing things in flash [...] it wont be much used for real computing - its all family entertainment.

Click Here to see more reviews about: HP TouchSmart 600-1050 23-Inch Black Desktop PC (Windows 7 Home Premium)

From the elegant design to the advanced features to the incredibly powerful suite of built-for-touch applications, the HP TouchSmart PC redefines what touch can do for you—and what you can do with a touch.

Click here for more information about HP TouchSmart 600-1050 23-Inch Black Desktop PC (Windows 7 Home Premium)

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