Performance: Overall this desktop's performance was very good. Compared to other tested desktops, it was among the fastest with common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up almost instantly. Speed was adequate when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and other productivity tasks, and it was fast for manipulating filters on multiple images, converting and editing videos, and rendering 3D models and calculating simulations. Graphical tasks run faster among other models with only integrated graphics.
Ergonomics: The desktop is bundled with a keyboard and mouse. It had well-designed features that made it comfortable or convenient to use. The keyboard and mouse are both wireless, adding to convenience when placing them. Keyboard letters were high contrast and easy to read, and its keys were comfortably sized. Keyboard features such as media playback and volume control keys add convenience. There's no dedicated number pad on the keyboard. The wireless mouse has a low-profile design, and has a touch-activated scroll. You can't easily replace the storage drive. The power button is not in a convenient location, and is either hard to access, or easy to press accidentally. The case has no LED indicator for storage drive activity. The ethernet port is on the power brick. This model comes bundled with TouchID on the keyboard.
Display: The display quality was excellent overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. The desktop's display was brighter than most and it's anti-reflective, a plus for viewing in a brightly lit room. The display has a wide viewing angle, especially important if more than one person needs to see the screen at a time, say, for a video or presentation.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: You can connect common external devices such as backup drives and Blu-ray burners using USB4 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps). It also has Thunderbolt 3 (40 Gbps) supported over USB. Video outputs include: supporting Thunderbolt 3 (40 Gbps) and DisplayPort over USB-C; these are useful for connecting to an TV or separate monitor.
Downsides: There is no memory-card reader, so you'll need to buy an external reader or connect your digital camera directly to this desktop to transfer photos. There's no optical drive like a CD or DVD reader, so you'll have to buy an external drive if you need one. It has a shorter-than-typical 3 months of free tech support by telephone.
