Asus AIO V241EA review: A desktop computer with shockingly good value

17/05/2021

New Delhi, May 16: I am pretty sure you are reading this review on your smartphone or laptop. If I may ask you why ain’t you using a desktop computer: you would probably say, “I am fine with my laptop.” Although this may sound ridiculous, especially when laptops offer both portability and power, Asus thinks the new AIO V241EA has the potential to change consumers’ perception of desktop computing. Asus’ latest all-in-one PC combines a 24-inch 1080p monitor, 11th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, stereo speakers, and a 720p web camera in a space-saving form factor. I spent the past week with the Asus AIO V241EA, and while there will always be a debate between believers in laptops and those who still like to use desktops as their primary desktop machines at home, I tried to figure out who should pay Rs 61,990 for this all-in-one computer.
Asus AIO V241EA price in India: Rs 61,990: Asus AIO V241EA specifications (as reviewed): 23.8-inch, 16:9, Wide Screen, Full HD 1920×1080 LED display| Intel 11th Generation Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM/256GB PCI-E SSD + 1TB HDD|Intel Iris Xe graphics| 2x 3W stereo speakers| Wireless keyboard and mouse included| Windows 10| 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type A) + 1 USB 2.0 + 1 HDMI-out/ HDMI-in+ Ethernet port|audio headphone/mic combo jack
Asus AIO V241EA review: Super easy setup: It took me just a few minutes to set up the Asus AIO V241EA, right from unpackaging the machine to signing in to Microsoft account. In fact, the setup is as easy as a laptop. Just plug the desktop computer into a power outlet, insert AA batteries into the mouse and keyboard and turn them on, and then fire up the PC. Given this is an all-in-one desktop computer, there is no typical desktop tower or a separate monitor that takes extra space. The idea behind buying an all-in-one desktop is to have a machine that brings a computer, a screen, a webcam, and speakers into an ultra-compact form factor. AIOs deliver the same level of performance as full-sized desktops without looking boring. They are great for compact spaces and can be used as a family PC, something Asus wants to tap into with the work from home scenario.
Asus AIO V241EA review: Thin bezels gives this AIO a modern look: The Asus AIO V241EA is a reflection of how the coronavirus has changed the way we work from home. With more people working from home and using devices that define their personality, it makes a lot of sense how this all-in-one desktop computer is designed. It looks contemporary with a sleek and minimal design. Its footprint is small and doesn’t take much space on the desk. The AIO measures 540x409x48mm and weighs only 5.1kg. Unlike Apple iMac which has an aluminum chassis, Asus has plastic. It’s not a deal-breaker and doesn’t make the AIO super cheap, though the stand is made of metal. That said, every bit of the Asus AIO V241EA is modern. Its 24-inch screen (more on this later) is a real head-turner, and it looks incredible. It has thin bezels on top and sides, making the display literally edge to edge. There’s a 720 HD webcam below the screen which is placed right in the middle of the aluminum-clad speaker bar, and a total of three microphones to capture audio.
While the Asus-made AIO blends in with my home décor, my issue is with the monitor stand, which can tilt back but cannot adjust the height or rotate vertically or horizontally. Thankfully, there are enough connectivity ports. On the back of the PC, you will find four USB 3.1 Gen1 ports, an HDMI 1.4 (in and out) port, an Ethernet port. It also has a single USB 2.0 port and a 3.5mm headphone jack. I’d have liked to see at least a single USB-C port and an SD card reader, but this is still a solid port connection.
Both the keyboard and the mouse ship with the AIO, so you do not need to purchase them separately. The wireless keyboard is easy to type on and feels solid. The mouse too is nice to use.

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