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(Source: PC World)

Product: Dell XPS M2010
Type: Semi-Portable PC

Typical Configuration:

* Intel Core Duo Processor
* 2 x hard drives
* 20.1″ WXGA TFT LCD display (12ms grey-to-grey response time)
* Array microphones
* Integrated 10/100 Ethernet
* Integrated 1.3 megapixel Webcam (Part of Communications Package)
* 8 integrated speakers, with subwoofer
* Detachable Bluetooth keyboard and mouse
* Remote control
* Dual DVI-out
* Microsoft® Windows® XP Media Center 2005 Edition
* Weight: ~18 lbs.

Reviews:

1. The unique Dell XPS M2010 that launched around a month back gets reviewed by PC Magazine. Even now, I’m still not sure whether to classify it as a semi-portable desktop or a desktop-ish notebook, but since everyone seems to be calling it a notebook, I’ll follow the flow and do the same.

   Anyway, getting back to the review itself. PC Magazine, while impressed with the unique design, form factor, as well as first-class 20-inch LCD screen, wasn’t at all thrilled with the super-high price tag or weight attached to the XPS M2010.

   So, unless you’re an early adopter or gadget freak, it’s probably best to wait a few more months, or even a year until we get a cheaper and more mobile version of this baby - whether from Dell or its various competitors. At least, that’s what PCMag’s 3 out of 5 overall rating of the M2010 indicates to me.

News:

1. Dell may not be famous for being very creative, but you must admit that the newly launched Dell XPS M2010 is pretty unique. For one, although it features a 20.1″ widescreen display, the hinges on the display also serve as handles - proving a sort of portability to the system.

   Of course, considering that we are talking about a 20.1″ monitor, a Core Duo Intel processor, up to 4GB RAM, eight built-in speakers with a sub-woofer, and a slot-loading DVD drive, weight will be a clear obstacle to its so-called portability.

   In any case, it does look pretty good, both feature and design-wise. And yes, I dig its detachable Bluetooth keyboard as well.

2. The Dell XPS M2010 is expensive. As PC Magazine concluded in their review of the 18-pound desktop-ish notebook, “…you’ll need a rock star’s income or financing from a bank to afford one of these wild media center rigs.” Not that you needed anyone to tell you that given the US$3,500 starting price of the M2010.

   But why is it that some consumers will still get one of these babies (or similarly, the 20″ Acer Aspire 9800)? Well, USA Today says that it’s precisely because these notebooks are big, and thus, unique.

   Don’t think that Dell is only after the price premium though, as niche notebooks such as these can apparently serve also as “market-openers” and “reputation builders”.

   Want a more in-depth explanation? Check out USA Today’s entire article.