HP DreamScreen (Linux; Rs 19,990)
The HP DreamScreen could be the most interesting idea from HP in the 10 years. That is because, this touch screen computer is a clever amalgamation of ideas from the world of desktop computers and tablet computers, yet it is not a convertible. Primarily being marketed for the older people, the DreamScreen does away with the familiar Microsoft Windows. Instead, it runs on Linux, the free operating system which goes to explain the sub-`20,000 price point. Everything is organised into easily touchable icons, so the user need not bother himself with the pitfalls of traditional operating systems. The 18.5-inch touchscreen is supported by a 2GB RAM, 1.8GHz processor and 250GB of storage. Also perfect for geeks who like hacking computers.
Apple Mac Mini (OSX Mountain Lion; from Rs 39,900)
When we think of a desktop computer from Apple, we usually think of an iMac. But the recently revamped Mac Mini can be a cheaper alternative. Mac Mini is a small cube that is 3.6 cm in height, and 19.7 cm in width and depth which weighs a meagre 1.22 kg. Since this ultraportable cube has many different ports like HDMI, FireWire 800, Thunderbolt and USB, almost any monitor, including your HDTV, any keyboard and any mouse can be plugged in. With a choice of 2.5GHz dual-core Intel Core i5, or 2.6GHz quad-core i7, and a fusion drive that combines up to 1TB of hard drive, with up to 256GB of flash storage, you can have one of the most powerful computers that can be set up anywhere in a second. Goes well with the lovely Apple monitors though they will cost you a fortune.
HCL Beanstalk AD1V0028 (Windows 7; Rs 35,389)
The HCL Beanstalk collection of desktop computers combine some elements of the old-styled desktop computers and our idea of how a modern desktop should look. This particular Beanstalk does not come cheap at `35,000. To do justice to that money, it has a 18.5-inch HD Anti-Glare LED display, with a 3.3GHz, Intel Core i3 processor and 2GB of DDR3 memory. Though you will get a 500GB hard drive and a 1.3 megapixel web camera, the party piece is the 3W Hi-Fi stereo speakers that are integrated into the monitor. Runs on Windows 7 Home Premium which can upgrade to Windows 8, if you are a masochist.
Lenovo C340 (Windows 8; Rs 36,490)
Talking of Windows 8, the Lenovo C340 is a good starting point to jump into the tile world. It has a 3.0 GHz, Intel Core i3 processor, 2GB DDR3 memory, and 500GB of hard drive, all supporting a beautiful 20” HD screen. Throw in the 720p HD webcam, and Dolby Audio V2, and you got a good super slim Windows 8 PC.