The convenience of a single computer-and-display unit cannot be understated. That is why people now buy laptops more than desktops. But if laptop monitors are too small, you would have to buy an external monitor, and then you will have two components. That’s why it makes sense to buy an all-in-one desktop PC where the computer is built inside the monitor. With improved technology, the display panel can take up less space than before while the computer components are also not much bigger.
Still, the HP OmniStudio X is one hefty all-in-one desktop PC. The 31.5-inch display weighs almost 10kg. The package comes with the HP 710 USB wireless keyboard and mouse combo, where the keyboard feels unusually heavy. At the back of the computer are the numerous connectors. To the left of the monitor stand pole are:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2.0×2 Type-C port; 20 Gbps signaling rate (DisplayPort 1.4 In/Out)
- USB 3.2 Gen 2.0 Type-A ports; 10 Gbps signaling rate
- HDMI Input port
- HDMI v1.4 Output port
To the right are:
- Power Adapter
- RJ-45 Ethernet port
- Headphone/microphone combo jack
On the pole of the monitor stand, there are additional connectors:
- Two USB 3.2 Gen 2.0 Type-A ports; 10 Gbps signaling rate
- USB 3.2 Gen 2.0 Type-C port; 10 Gbps signaling rate
These connectors have an internal USB extension within the stand attaching to the computer. This also means that the OmniStudio does not support VESA mount. The stand has limited movements, only able to move up and down within 130mm, tilt upwards and downwards within -5 and 20 degrees. It cannot swivel the monitor or rotate to portrait modes.
There is a hidden USB port facing below the computer. This is used to insert the USB dongle for the keyboard and mouse. So if you you want to use your own KBM, then you have to access this port that is covered by a silicone rubber cap.
The webcam located on top of the computer pops up by pressing the unit down. The webcam is provided by Poly, previously known as Plantronics. If you want to use the Windows Hello for face sign-in or for proximity sensor, then you should keep the camera exposed.
The power and On-Screen Display (OSD) navigation joystick is to the right. When the OSD is clicked, the directional guide appears approximately near the joystick, which makes it a bit easier for the user to orientate.
Display and Resolution
The 31.5-inch model has a maximum UHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 in 4K IMAX enhanced with TUV+ Eyesafe Certification. The display quality. resolution and dynamics allow me to see the granular details and shades. Sitting at about 50cm away from the screen, the view fits within my peripheral vision. 32-inch is a rather productive size for a monitor instead of two smaller monitors because when I adjust the windows in portrait mode, it is roughly the size of an A4 size paper after considering most apps contain top and bottom menu bars that reduce the content size slightly. But if you want to, it is possible to connect the OmniStudio X to another monitor and extend the display via the HDMI Out port.
Poly Studio Webcam
The OmniStudio X comes preinstalled with Poly Camera Pro software which you can use to personalise your camera feed. With the app, you can apply permanent watermarks, adjust image, framing, apply background effects. When running the video conference apps, you can choose either the standard “HP Camera” without the filters or the “Poly Camera Pro” with watermark and customised image settings.
The computer also comes with an app called “HP Enhanced Lighting” which uses the monitor screen to light up the face when using the camera. You can adjust the light colour, shape and size.
myHP – Control Your PC
In recent years, most brand computers have come up with their own Windows app that helps the consumers get the most out of their computers and make setting changes without having to navigate all over the Windows Settings. It is also often the software that allows consumers to diagnose their PCs for any issues and connect to the service centre conveniently.
For HP, the software is “myHP”. With it, you can adjust audio, camera, display, PC performance, screen time, monitors screen distance. The bottom of the section offers some shortcuts to online resources and to the specific Windows settings. myHP does not do diagnostics, which is handled by a separate HP app called HP PC Hardware Diagnostics.
Audio Quality
From the myHP app, you can adjust the sound quality and mic quality. The two 2-watt stereo speakers deliver good amount of warmth and weight. Its treble is not very forthcoming, and if you do not EQ the upper frequencies, the audio might sound held-back. The overall sound does not project towards you.
Works As External Monitor
One great feature with the HP OmniStudio X is that you can use the display as an external monitor by connecting either the HDMI In port or the USB-C in DisplayPort mode which also doubles as a PD charger. So, if the OmniStudio desktop stops working or becomes obsolete, at least you can still put the monitor to good use. When connecting via USB-C, you can use the HP keyboard and mouse to control the computer. But all other USB ports would not work with the external computer, so they do not function like a USB Hub to the external computer.
Verdict
The HP OmniStudio X 32-inch Desktop PC starts at S$3099 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 (6GB GDDR6). It is a convenient all-in-one computer that keeps your desk clean and wire-free. I like that I can also use the monitor as a second screen for external computers. Order your preferred configuration from HP Singapore website here: HP OmniStudio X 31.5 inch All-in-One 32-c0000d Desktop PC – 31.5-inch (80.01 cm) (AW4A4PA) – Shop HP.com Singapore
