Maingear Debuts Powerful All-in-One Alpha 24 Super Stock Gaming PC

The hardest thing about successfully creating an all-in-one gaming PC is that there is a lot of powerful hardware that you have to try to fit into a small space. That is why most all-in-ones have typically been unsuccessful in their attempts to bring semi-portable, space-saving PC gaming to customers. However, that hasn't stopped Maingear from designing the Alpha 24 Super Stock, the first true boutique all-in-one gaming PC.

The highlights for the Alpha are pretty good. The device comes with an Intel Core i3 3240 3.4GHz, upgradeable to an Intel Core i7 3770K, as well as up to 256GB Crucial M4 mSATA SSD and up to 3TB mechanical HDD. In addition to that, the Alpha comes with a full-size Nvidia GeForce GTX 650Graphics, which can be enhanced to a GeForce GTX 680. Expansion slots also include two mini PCIe slots and one PCIe x 16 slot.

Of significance here is definitely the graphics card. You don't usually find full-sized graphics cards and PCIe expansion slots in an all-in-one PC. The display itself is a 24", 1,920 x 1,080 full HD touchscreen LCD monitor.Other features include an HDMI input, Nvidia's Synergy technology, power-saving Optimus tech and an optional CableCard tuner.

Despite all that, it is still hard to look past the graphics card. Some all-in-one vendors might throw in a laptop-quality graphics card, but Maingear is the only provider offering a full-fledged desktop 3D card in an all-in-one PC that is aimed right at the hearts of PC gamers. Adding that to the fact that you can upgrade that card further drastically increases the Alpha's race from extinction.

The Alpha 24 Super Stock from Maingear is currently available for purchase with Maingear estimating a two-week shipping time for special built-to-order units. Base price for the device before any customization options rounds out to $1,399, which isn't too bad for a gaming PC, especially one with 3D capabilities.

Source: CNET - Maingear introduces first boutique gaming all-in-one PC