Image credit: Pixabay
Apple released its first iMac in 1998. Since then, it’s been a great power system for iMac users with little or no rivals in the game. The problem is iMacs are expensive, and this has made users to seek cheaper alternatives that can deliver same level of performance.
There are some good options like the Microsoft’s Surface Studio 2 and Dell Inspiron 27 7000 Series.
However, the standout option for me is the HP Envy 32 for many reasons. From lovely all-in-one design, to its power packed hardware options, and amazing connectivity.
With this HP Envy 32 all-in-one, HP has certainly found a way to give the iMac a run. Here are some of the reasons why we think so.
Summary
Why it’s great
- It’s got a grand design
- Comes with a Desktop-class processor
- RTX graphics is powerful
- Capable of loads of mobile synergies
The bad part
- Can sometimes get loud and hot
- Core i9 option is not available
Screen and Display
Apple has delivered on the all-in-one display consistently overtime. When it comes to pixel density, no one has ever beaten the new iMac.
However, HP has responded will the Envy 32.
The Envy’s 31.5-inch 4K display is sharper, has better contrast and is brighter than the iMac. Content creators will absolutely think twice before making a choice between both.
The 5K iMac has a resolution of 5,120 × 2,800 which is better than the Envy’s 3,840 × 2,160. However, the Envy beats the iMac in several other areas.
The first one is the display size. The Envy’s 31.5 inches display size beats Apple’s at 27 inches maximum display. Also, the iMac maxed out at 507 nits of brightness. While the Envy’s IPS LCD panel beats that at a staggering 600 nits of brightness.
Lastly, the iMac has a 900:1 contrast ratio while the HP Envy surpasses that with a crazily high 6,000:1 contrast ratio.
Comparing these details, the Envy has a display area that is 32% larger than that of the iMac. It has a brightness that is 20% better, and its contrast is 5 times better than that of the iMac.
I can’t resist talking about the beauty of the bezels. The iMac has a bulky frame and it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing. The HP Envy on the other hand comes with thin bezels and a 94% screen to body ratio. The Envy screen has a specially made anti-reflective coating that helps to stop glare coming from sunlight. When in a bright room, it also prevents reflections, giving you the best viewing experience.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the iMac has always been a success. It uses processors that are desktop class and ranging up to the 8-core Core i9. If you are looking for an all-in-one with a high speed in content creation, the iMac is still the best at it. However, the HP Envy is no pushover.
It comes with a ninth generation 8-core Intel Core i7-9700 processor. This is combined with a 32 GB memory, and a 1TB storage capacity.
The Envy has an option of up to RTX 2080 graphics card. This is the first time an all-in-one has this feature and it ranks the Envy highly as a gaming PC. It also ranks above all of the AMD cards you will find in the iMac.
Ports and Speakers
Most of the Envy’s ports are located at the back. Due to the location of the large sound bar at the back, the ports are usually high. And this makes it hard to reach them.
You will find a USB-C port, a port that is Thunderbolt 3 port, two ports that are USB-A ports, the HDMI in and HDMI out, and the Ethernet jack. All at the back.
There is a USB-A port at the bottom side of the right bezel, and on the bottom of the left side bezel is a SD card reader (Full-sized).
The HP Envy 32 all-in-one comes with a huge speaker grille. According to HP, it is the loudest you can find in an all-in-one. This beats out the iMac in all ways. At 12% volume, the bass is so thick. It is highly accurate for playback and editing.
Final Verdict
The HP Envy 32 is a great response to the iMac. Although, core fans may not be moved. However, the display, design and speaker performance of the HP makes it a great competition for the Apple. It is the best all-in-one you will find in the market. And it delivers greatly for gamers and content creators. If you feel convinced you can trade your iMac for the HP with our help.