Dell, XPS M2010

Desktop replacements are by definition sizeable beasts, but Dell’s XPS M2010 is exceptionally big even by the standards of its peers.

It’s also a machine with something of an identity crisis, offering desktop specs – a 20.1in screen, built-in high-definition 7.1 audio and a 500GB hard-drive – in a just-about-luggable handbag design.

Under the hood
That handle and the durable magnesium alloy frame mean it’s more of a laptop than a desktop computer, but it can hold its own against most all-in-one PCs. Under the bonnet it’s got the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processor, ATI Mobility Radeon X1800 graphics card (gamers rejoice), and there’s even a Blu-Ray drive.

The system has some other highlights, coming equipped with all the extras you’d expect from a full-blown desktop system. For instance, it’s upgradeable to 500GB of storage using dual hard drives (RAID 0 or 1) and up to 4GB of dual-channel memory, so has the power and capacity you need to support extreme multimedia.

Plugged in
Connectivity options are among the most plentiful we’ve ever seen on either a desktop or laptop. Seriously, there’s almost everything. The only ports we’d really like to see, which are missing, are HDMI and e-SATA. Of course, there’s also built-in 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

There’s also a 1.3MP video camera and array microphone, and Dell offers an optional external USB TV tuner for turning the XPS M2010 into a television and digital recorder in one.

Laptop gone mad
What’s really funky about the XPS M2010 is that in just seconds it turns from a portable briefcase with leather-like accents into a desktop PC, making it perfect for those after infrequent mobility and uncompromising performance.

And the full-sized wireless keyboard with integrated touchpad and 10-key number pad even detaches from the system to give you added flexibility and comfort.

With illuminated front-side control buttons to help put music and movies at your fingertips, as well as a sweet motorised slot-loading DVD burner and 13-in-2 media card reader, this is a machine that wows all who see it. It’s a shame the price is so high, but the M2010 is powerful and perfect for those desiring infrequent mobility and high performance.