March 24, 2012
Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback! Pros: features galore, thoughtful construction/design, decent entertainment deviceCons: frustrating touch experience due to shortcomings inherent with Windows As with any Windows machine, the initial speed is very fast, then It slows over time. Given that cavaet, the experience on this machine is much more useful than most. The hardware on my 610-1190f puts a comparable iMac to shame. Of course, similarly spec'd, the iMac comes close to $1000 more in cost. That iMac also does not include a blu-ray burner, HDMI inputs, digital TV tuner, or touchscreen! Inclusion of the much hyped "Beats Audio" provides fairly decent sound. As an entertainment device though, an added subwoofer would make it more suitable. It's a good thing HP can sell you one designed for this machine at only $140. The HP wireless mouse/keyboard feel somewhat cheep, but serve the purpose well enough. Controlling the machine through touchscreen makes much more sense anyways. HP really hit it home with the tilting option here. People are much more used to an intimate close computing experience as a result of the growing tablet market, which can really be felt with this machine. The hic-up is felt though, through its software experience. Again, Windows is really at fault here; this time with a lack of real touch support. It's evident that HP was aware of this short-coming though. They tried hard to include the best software available to drive this huge touchscreen, but there is still a frustration felt for those used to iOS/Magic Trackpad. It lacks accuracy, and a fluid reliance on touch. The plastic surface of the screen is attracted to natural skin oils. This not only creates finger smudges,, but also makes it somewhat difficult to slide across the screen. I realize that Windows 7 was never really designed to utilize touch, but neither was OSX, originally. I feel a tangent coming on...Back the the TouchSmart, I really appreciate HP's thoughtfulness with construction, design, and overall attention to the end user. I only wish there was a better OS option. I'm sure Windows 8 will prove an interesting experience here. If Microsoft is going to forge the touch driven desktop market, then this HP TouchSmart 610 is a very capable vehicle to lead the way. .