1High-End HP Omen X Design Shows Why There’s a Future for Desktop PCs
2An Interesting Design Concept
The HP Omen X has an interesting design concept. The device is shaped like a cube and sits on a stand that keeps it propped up on one corner to help it run cooler and to save it from looking like another boring PC box or tower. There are some esthetically pleasing grills on the front to aid ventilation and access ports on the back to enable users to readily open it up.
3It Includes Windows 10—With a Catch
4The Graphics Chips Are Powerful
5It Supports Virtual Reality Devices, Applications
As more virtual-reality headsets reach the market, computer buyers are seeking out models that are VR-ready. However, virtual reality currently requires extremely powerful processors and not all Windows PCs are VR-certified. The Omen X, is and that could help it sell well among virtual-reality-seekers.
6It’s Fully Upgradable
The Omen X is a fully upgradable computer, HP says. In fact, users will be able to quickly swap out core components, such as CPUs, graphics processors and storage drives, to boost performance. Interestingly, HP is encouraging customizing the computer and offering toolless access to internal components. There’s also a built-in toolkit to help users quickly change up their components.
7HP’s Augmented Cooling Features in Omen X
In a high-end computer like the Omen X, cooling is an important factor, especially to gamers who want their computers to run cool to deliver the fastest performance. To keep the computer running cool, HP has designed a “tri-chamber” infrastructure that separates components and includes cooling in each of those chambers. In addition, customers can get up to three 120mm liquid-cooling radiators with exhaust vents to keep cool air in and hot air out.
8Choose the Right Processor to Get the Job Done
HP is offering a wide selection of processors, depending on what customers want. The company says customers can choose from either the sixth-generation Intel Core i5 or Core i7 processors, and have the option to choose from several variants within them. In addition, the overclocking is available for those who want a bit more power.
9You Can Buy Omen X Shell to Add Custom Components
In an interesting twist, HP says that it will sell completely empty Omen X boxes for those who want to install components of their choosing. The idea is to bring back the days of building a computer from scratch, and it could prove extremely appealing to do-it-yourselfers who still enjoy crafting their own machines.
10HP Has Inked an Omen X Customization Deal With Maingear
HP has signed a deal with boutique PC maker Maingear for customers to get even more customized Omen X desktops. Maingear will apparently offer more component options and other customizations that HP’s site won’t have. The companies say Maingear will begin selling its Omen X in early 2017 and pricing will vary depending on custom component selections.
11Let’s Look at Pricing and Availability
The Omen X is available now to customers ready to pay extra for a high-end desktop. The cheapest option is available now for $1,800. However, those who want some of the sophisticated features mentioned in the earlier slides should expect to pay substantially more. In fact, buyers who select top-of-the-line CPUs, graphics chips and other components can expect to pay several thousand dollars.