The Asus GR8, on the other hand, packs the guts of a gaming PC into a shell that looks more like a gaming console.
Powering this rig is an Intel Core i7-4510U processor, 8GB of DDR3 memory and Nvidia’s GeForce GTX750 TI graphics card that’s capable of supporting 4K displays. It also comes with a 1TB hard drive and Asus’ ROG SupremeFX 5.1-channel audio.
Its compact size also means the GR8 can be lugged around if you’re in the mood for a LAN gaming party.
Unlike console games written for the Sony PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Xbox One, the latest and most demanding PC games may require you to upgrade your graphics cards, which the GR8 does not allow. But in terms of hardware longevity, gaming consoles definitely offer more bang for the buck.
Still, having a powerful gaming machine that also runs Windows is useful for the family. For example, you can hook up the GR8 to the living room’s 4K screen without taking up too much space compared with a full-sized PC. Its surround sound capability is perfect for the living room, too.
However at S$1,599 the GR8 doesn’t come cheap, more so when most components cannot be upgraded as parts get older or damaged. It is also less portable than, say, gaming laptops. That said, it definitely scores as a convenient all-in-one PC gaming option for folks looking for a simple home entertainment system.
There are two people making a case like Valve’s prototype machines under the Hardforum: Small Form Factor section. One is by dondan called the B4 and the other is called “The Next Ncase Project” (can place both horizontally and vertically).
Next Ncase (Necere): http://hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1831382
B3 (Dondan): http://hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1830894
I thought that was the price range for the G20. I highly doubt anyone would want to pay $1500+ even for a console form factor.
I’m interested in the GR8 myself but at that price I would opt to do a Mini ITX build.
Donny, you do have a point there. There are people who can get their hands dirty and upgrade the machine as and when it is viable to do so. For a all in one the entry price for GR8 can be higher or on par with a DIY built. the Mini ITX however will be bigger.
They way I see it, it is the cheapest 4K machine you could get to match with the new 4K TV at home and be a home entertainment system as more 4K youtube contents come in. It might last a while though may not play the latest games as it gets older.
I like it but I’m pretty sure (hoping) it will be in the ~$900-1000 range just like the Alienware Alpha. For $1500 you can get the Syber Vapor Xtreme with a GTX 980 installed and is pretty user servicable. I just don’t like the look of the case, but that’s personal preference.
Maybe someone will create a case just like Valve’s prototype machines. I really liked the design.