MSI Wind Top AE2020-031UK review

Although the branding says it’s a Wind Top, this PC doesn’t use that line’s usual Atom processor. Instead, you get a 2.1GHz Pentium Dual-Core T4300 chip. Combined with the 3GB of built-in memory, this PC did better than an Atom-based nettop would have, with an overall score of 58 in our 2D benchmarks. While hard-core video editing might be a bit of a struggle, this score shows that the AE2020 is more than capable of every other task.

Nvidia’s ION chipset is used, which means that you get a dedicated graphics chip: a 256MB GeForce 9300. It refused to run our Crysis test, while the 6.5fps it achieved in Call of Duty 4 means that games are out. However, it’s capable of decoding HD video, although you’ll need to upgrade the built-in notebook-sized DVD writer to be able to watch Blu-ray movies.

Surprisingly, for an all-in-one PC, upgrading isn’t out of the question. Although you’ll have to remove the entire back to get at the components, MSI’s manual shows you where all of the components are. You can upgrade the 3.5in hard disk, replace the 3GB of memory with up to 8GB (you’ll need to upgrade to 64-bit Windows to use more than 4GB) and replace the optical drive.

Upgrading the hard disk is one thing that you may need to think about, as the 320GB model, while adequate for most people’s storage needs, is a little stingy at this price. If you’re not happy delving around the inside of computers, the six USB ports means that external upgrades are simple.

One of the most important parts of an all-in-one PC is the quality of its monitor, as it can be replaced. Fortunately, MSI has provided a decent model. It’s bright, has excellent viewing angles and natural-looking colours, while the glossy coating helps improve contrast. Its high resolution of 1,600×900 provides plenty of desktop space. With HDMI and VGA inputs, you can use the screen for other devices, too, such as a laptop and Blu-ray player.

It’s a multi-touch screen, which means that you can use Windows 7 support for gestures, such as pinching your fingers together to zoom in. It’s easy enough to use, but the screen’s coating creates plenty of friction, preventing us from moving our fingers smoothly across its surface. This shouldn’t be a problem, as on a daily basis it’s more comfortable to use the keyboard and mouse.

Built-in stereo speakers mean you don’t need to resort to an external pair. They’re not bad, either. Bass is a little lacking, but they sound clear and are reasonably loud. While finer details in songs can get lost, for basic use they’re perfect. If you do want an external set, there’s a stereo line out; the only way to get surround sound is to use the optical S/PDIF output.

MSI provides a basic wired keyboard and mouse. The keyboard’s fairly comfortable to use. Although its keys are a little spongy, there’s enough feedback and travel for touch typists. The mouse is small, but not uncomfortably so.

Overall, the Wind Top AE2020-031UK is a decent budget all-in-one, but if your budget can stretch a bit further you’ll find more powerful alternatives.