Mobile Computing News

Photo: Dell

The Dell Inspiron Zino HD takes what you expect a desktop PC to look like, flips it on its head and crams it into a lunchbox-sized case with a customisable finish. This attractive mini-desktop both removes clutter from your workspace and also allows for limited portability.

The High Definition Factor

The unit derives its “HD” moniker from having a built-in HDMI port at the back of it for outputting to an HD TV. Upon unveiling, Dell promised a Blu-ray drive as an add-on, but has since recanted. In tests, it was found that the Zino HD handles 720p video fine but when pushed further it struggled to output 1080p video.

The Price Of Beauty

Photo: Dell

And therein is the nub. The Zino HD cannot – and is probably not intended to – replace beefy desktops for users that require lots of processing power. This mini-desktop has an uninspiring base configuration which consists of 1GB of ram, a 160GB Hard disk capacity, a 1.5GHz AMD X2 processor and an integrated ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics processor. The upper end specs are far more interesting, but in adding the various optional extras, the price balloons from an already pricey £250 to an indefensible £500.

The Aesthetics

So if it’s not a power machine, nor the greatest HD output device in the world, what is the Zino HD’s killer feature? It looks great! If you want, it blends in seamlessly on your desk when next to the monitor, or if you prefer, you can make it stand out from the rest of your contents with its customisable top. Being a mini-desktop, it’s halfway between a desktop and a laptop, in that it is portable so you can move it from location to location as long as you have a monitor waiting for you. This is ideal for people who prefer working on a monitor as opposed to straining their necks in looking down at laptop screens all day.

The Bottom Line

If aesthetics is all you are looking for, as well as limited portability, this machine is a great addition to the household. It can very easily fit into a home theatre with its high definition capabilities. Other than that, there is no fair way to recommend this device. If portability is really what you are looking for, get a laptop or netbook. If power is what you need, get a desktop. This falls in halfway between the two and performs neither function all too well. It also comes in at a barely palatable price. Choose wisely.