The Pros and Cons of Dell’s ‘all-in-one’ XPS One PC

Texas-based computer manufacturer Dell Inc. is launching its virgin foray into the all-in-one computer arena this week with the announced arrival of the self-contained XPS One, which is to be released for the Japanese and U.S. markets at a starting price of $1,499 USD. Dell Inc. reveals its new XPS One all-in-one PC system, but how is it being met in critical circles? Credit: Dell.

Dell Inc. reveals its new XPS One all-in-one PC system, but how is it being met in critical circles? Credit: Dell.Alex Gruzen, the senior VP of Dell’s consumer product group, has outlined that the XPS One combines the hardware of a traditional computer tower and freestanding monitor into a single streamlined unit, which is designed to function as a computer, digital media-centre, and a HD television that can be put almost anywhere in the home.Offered up as yet another indicator of Dell’s focused shift toward more consumer products, the XPS One follows the unveiling of the new Dell M1330 notebook, eight colour alternatives for the existing Inspiron notebook range, and also high-profile deals to bring Dell hardware to Wal-Mart and Staples retail stores across the United States.Gruzen has explained that the XPS One has been designed with the Japanese market firmly in mind, especially as around 60 percent of all computers sold throughout the region are all-in-one units, which has seen Dell’s designers pooling their respective talents to produce a competitive rival to other systems already on offer.Described by its creators as "perhaps the most beautiful Dell ever," the XPS One could help usher in a range of attractive hardware that sets the company apart. "A year from now, people won’t recognize this company when they look at the breadth and the beauty of the products we have in the market," enthuses Gruzen.However, review opinion would perhaps suggest that Dell has a little further to go before capturing the hearts and minds of the consuming masses when it comes to all-in-one appeal. Specifically, CNET gives the XPS One "the nod" and says that it succeeds in providing the "Best HD-equipped all-in-one" experience while also bundling in 802.11n and Bluetooth wireless flexibility. Yet, the review also outlines that the XPS One is "not as fast as an iMac," and is "not as home-theater-capable," as a similar all-in-one system being offering by Hewlett-Packard. An article published by Designer Today takes a more stringent view with the XPS One from an upkeep point of view, however, criticising the need for a costly Dell technician whenever hardware changes/fixes are required, saying that the XPS One is "a win-win for Dell," as the XPS line is little more than a "maintenance cash cow" for Dell Inc.