dailyApps

For long I’ve always felt that Mac’s were super sexy and did extremely well in the looks department of a computer. There’s this self attracting charm of the Mac’s that pulls in the crowds wherever you take it. Looks like Dell is aiming to do something similar with its Studio Hybrid Desktops.

Dell claims that the Studio Hybrid desktops are the most power efficient desktops in the market today and it Uses about 70% less power than a typical desktop, and it meets Energy Star 4.0 standards with an 87% efficient power supply. Well done Dell!

The major selling point about the new Studio Hybrid’s is that they are extremely environmental friendly. Here’s what Dell has to say, “Studio Hybrid packaging is made from 95% recyclable materials. And the Studio Hybrid comes with a system-recycling kit, so you can help preserve and protect the environment”.

Going by its looks you might feel that it is severely underpowered just like the Mac Mini. But it isn’t the case. The base model that retails for 499$ (without monitor) and for 699$ (with monitor) comes in the following configuration :

• Intel Pentium Dual Core (1.86 GHz)
• 8X Slot Load CD / DVD Burner
• 1GB RAM (DDR2 , 667MHz)
• 160GB Hard disk (5400RPM)
• Integrated Graphics (GMA X3100)

The Studio Hybrid’s suffer from weak 3D performance due to the system’s integrated graphics, but if you don’t need to play 3D games, the Studio Hybrid is a good alternative to the boxy mainstream PC’s that have dominated the market since the dawn of personal computing. 

Personalization is an added benefit,  several acrylic shell colors are available including Topaz and Ruby, the system can also be wrapped in a bamboo finish and changed on the fly through a swappable sleeve. The design can either sit horizontally on a desk or upright by using a special stand.

The higher end Hybrid’s are just as good as the modern day towers with Core 2 Duo Processors and upto a maximum of 4GB of RAM.

Looking at all this, I feel that Dell has a winner at its hands. It beats the Mac Mini hands down with option of a Blu-ray drive for HD video, HDMI video out, an 8-in-1 card reader and the choice of a TV tuner.

With the impending refresh of the Mac line, we have to wait and watch for what Apple comes up with. I’d want the Mac Mini compete heads on with the Studio Hybrid. At the moment though it is the Hybrid’s winning the battle.

If only Hybrid’s ran Mac OSX, it would be the best small factor PC/Mac out there suitable for a small home theatre in your living room.

Nice industrial design from Dell. The bamboo model looks particularly nice. What are your thoughts on the Studio Hybrids?