DESKTOP SPECIAL....................... THE WORLD OF STYLISH DESKTOPS

THE WORLD OF STYLISH DESKTOPS





Desktop computer use is declining thanks to laptops, hybrids and all the mobile devices we use. There are, however, a few types of desktops that can fulfill other requirements ­ more than basic computing needs. Karan Bajaj suggests some quality desktop computer options for those who want something out of the ordinary.

Apple Mac Pro

The Mac Pro is the epitome of design with its unique cylinder-shaped cabinet. Weighing just 5kg, the Mac Pro is made from aluminium with a mirrored black finish that makes it stand out from the crowd. The chassis is built around Apple's new thermal core design that acts as the base for all the components. The design utilises a single fan (with specially designed blades) that suck in air from under the cabinet and push it out from the top while cooling down the internals. It supports up to a 12 core Xeon processor, dual graphics cards, up to 64GB RAM and up to 1TB of flash storage for the ultimate in performance. There are also numerous ports and built-in WiFiBluetooth.

Syber Vapor One Series

If for some reason you don't like large desk tops, Syber has you covered. The Vapor One series of computers has a design that looks sort of like a gaming console. It is a bit larger than the average console and weighs 5.5kg (for instance, the PS4 weighs 3kg). That being said, you can find space for it practically anywhere thanks to the compact design and mul tiple orientation. The front has two backlit bands -you can change the back light colour to suit your mood or tastes. It is available in multiple hardware configurations across price ranges with an option to customise each and every component.

Cyberpower Trinity

This one has a distinctive three-blade design that makes it look like a spaceship. Each of the three sections is a dedicated area for the com ponents. One enclosure holds the CPU and motherboard, the second has space to put a full-size GPU while the third enclosure is for hard disk drives. This arrangement also helps in keeping the cabinet temperature cool be cause heat from one component does not impact other components. The central duct holds all the cables and routes them cleanly to avoid a messy interior. It is available in your choice of Intel or AMD processors, with up to 16GB RAM, 256GB flash + 2TB HDD storage and an Nvidia GPU with 4GB dedicated memory.

Alienware Area 51 Desktop

Alienware is a known name when it comes to the gaming frater nity. The Area 51 desktop is proof of their innovative designs ­ the `triad' chassis is once again, completely unique. Apart from looking like something from a spaceship, the design makes it easier to access any port on the back and makes it easier to pick up for transportation. There are multiple, smartly placed fans that make sure that internal compo nents remain cool over long hours of gaming. In typical Alienware fashion, the cabinet also offers customizable LED lighting with nine individually configurable lighting zones -each zone can be lit up in a different colour.

Hardware includes your choice of latest Intel Core processors, up to 16GB RAM, an optional triple graph ics card package, and up to 4TB of internal storage.

MSI Nightblade

MSI's gaming computer features a space-saving, square design. Style enthusiasts will love the aluminium finish with red lighting and the engraved dragon on the side panel. MSI has installed their proprietary Dragon case fan in the cabinet for maximum cooling efficiency. The cabinet body is made of steel with a zinc coating to prevent damage or rusting. It has rubber-fitted metal screws on the back so that you can place the cabinet vertically. For transport, you can use the sturdy grab handle. As for the internals, you can choose between Intel Core i5i7 processors, add up to 16GB RAM, a dedicated Nvidia graphics card, up to 256GB SSD and up to 2TB hard drive storage.

Mini PCs

In case you don't need an Earth-shattering performance and just want a machine that won't take up too much space, Mini PCs as a category are a great option. So, how small is a mini PC? Some of them can even fit in the palm of your hand and can be mounted behind a monitor to make them completely invisible. Regardless of the space-saving design, these mini computers usually come with USB ports in the front and other connectivity ports (display, Ethernet, USB, audio etc.) on the rear. For hardware, most manufacturers give multiple combinations of Intel Pentium or Core I processors, up to 8GB RAM and up to1TB storage. There are options available from various brands when it comes to Mini PCs such as the HP Pavilion Mini, Asus' Vivo PC and the Zotac Zbox. Even Apple has an offering in this segment with the Apple Mac Mini. It can be customised with up to Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 1TB storage and offers a plethora of ports including HDMI, displayport, 4 USB port and even an IR receiver.

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