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HP TouchSmart 600 Quad series (1.6 GHz cache, 1.5TB HD, 4GB SODIMM)
price: $1,299.99 price : $750
All-in-one desktop computers
Popularized by the iMac, the all-in-one PC is a desktop with a built-in monitor. The desktop components (processor, memory, hard drive, and such) may be in the base or hidden behind the flat-panel display itself. Like a SFF desktop, an all-in-one limits expansion, but many boast advanced features, such as DVD burners and TV tuners. Because the display and the computer itself are enclosed in a single box, they're generally more space efficient than a traditional tower-and-monitor combination. On the other hand, the PC components will become obsolete faster than the LCD, one drawback of having the two so tightly integrated. If you have a small space in which to setup your computer, an all-in-one can save the day.
Read more in the Desktop Buying Guide
See more All-in-one desktop computers products
Desktop computer memory size
One GB of memory is the recommended minimum to run Windows 7 and additional memory will make multitasking and graphics run smoother. Business workstations are apt to have a lot more memory to run industrial strength software.
The central processor (CPU) is the heart of any computer system and the best test as to whether a desktop computer or notebook fits your needs. The trouble is, processor names like Athlon and Celeron are as undescriptive as system names like Latitude and Pavilion. Here's a quick guide to see which chip is a fit:
Manufacturer Processor name Processing power Designed use
Intel Core i7 Very high Gaming and graphics
AMD Phenom Very high Gaming and graphics
Intel Core 2 Quad Very high Gaming and graphics
AMD Athlon High Mainstream
Intel Core 2 Duo High Mainstream
AMD Sempron Medium Entry level
Intel Celeron Medium Entry level
Intel Pentium Dual Core Medium Entry level
Intel Atom Low Small form factor desktop
Via C7-M Low Small form factor desktop
Intel Pentium Low Budget
AMD Opteron Very high Server
Intel Xeon Very high Server
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