Home page » PCs

Search:

Refine search for PCs

The HP TouchSmart IQ810 is essentially an upgrade from the TouchSmart IQ500 we reviewed a little while ago, but with a full HD screen, slot-loading Blu-ray drive and more powerful internals, it's a pretty major step up (though our review sample of the IQ500 wasn't the highest configuration available). Of course, the IQ810 also retains its predecessor's DVB-T TV tuner, making it a very capable home theatre system.

First things first, let's get the extras out of the way. You get an excellent full colour startup guide that is without exaggeration larger than the PC itself, making the already simple setup even more of a doddle. Other bits worth mentioning include an IR extender cable, 3.5mm to twin phono audio cable, USB A-B cable and a soft black cleaning cloth.


As far as peripherals go, there is a black Media remote, wireless mouse and keyboard. The glossy remote is really quite large, which makes it easy to hold. Buttons are high-quality soft-touch affairs, and are logically laid out.


The wireless mouse and keyboard come pre-paired to the IQ810, meaning all you have to do is insert the batteries (AA for the mouse, AAA for the keyboard) and everything works. The mouse has a glossy black finish is surprisingly resistant to fingerprints, and matches the PC perfectly. It's symmetrical, has three buttons including the two-way scroll wheel, and uses an optical sensor. The keyboard is finished in a very attractive matte textured black, has a good layout and is a pleasure to type on. But what makes it special is its slim profile, which at its thickest is just over a centimetre.


Moving onto the PC itself, it's again virtually identical to the IQ500 in terms of design. Not that that's a bad thing, as everything about that machine was sleek and desirable. As already mentioned, setup couldn't be simpler. Just pull out the transparent plastic and metal 'leg', plug in the huge power brick (weighing almost a kilo and over 20cm long), and you're done.

Naturally with a large, integrated screen, the unit is quite heavy too at just over 16kg, but it's very easy to move about thanks to its svelte dimensions. The transparent plastic feet raise it to a comfortable viewing height for most desks and allows you to slip the keyboard underneath the machine when not in use.

Add your comment

© 2003-2009 TrustedReviews & IPC Media
About Us | Contact Us | Legal | Privacy | RSS