The Bottom Line
Pros
- Stronger Desktop Processor
- Well Priced
- Excellent Screen
Cons
- Integrated Graphics Limits 3D Performance
- Limited Monitor Positioning With Poor Stand
- Could Really Use Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
Description
- Intel Pentium Dual-Core E5200 Dual Core Desktop Processor
- 4GB PC2-6400 DDR2 Memory
- 500GB 7200rpm SATA Hard Drive
- 8x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- 20.1" WSXGA+ (1680x1050) Wide Display With 1.3 Megapixel Webcam
- Intel GMA X4500HD Integrated Graphics
- Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11b/g/n Wireless
- Five USB 2.0, FireWire, 3-in-1 Card Reader
- 19.2" x 16.1" x 6.2"
- Vista Home Premium 64-bit, Works, VAIO Suite, Windows Live OneCare
Guide Review - Sony VAIO VGC-JS130J/B 20.1-inch All-In-One Desktop PC
1/26/2009 - Sony's VAIO JS130 is the companies least expensive all-in-one desktop computer system that is focused more as a general purpose system than a home media center. This means that it isn't as feature packed as other all-in-one's but it does still have some performance.
Most companies have relied on using laptop processors for their all-in-one systems to reduce size and power consumption. Sony has elected to use an Intel Pentium Dual-Core E5200 processor desktop processor. This gives it a bit of a performance edge over the slower clocked mobile processors and allows it to use faster 800MHz DDR2 memory compared to the 667MHz memory used in many other all-in-ones. It still does fall short of most desktop systems though as the Pentium Dual-Core is generally used in budget oriented systems.
The screen is probably one of the best aspects of the VAIO JS130. The 20.1-inch screen has a 1680x1050 resolution and is one of the best displays in this screen size. The screen does have a few drawbacks as it also houses the entire system. Sony elected to use a simple fold out stand on the back of the unit that limits the angle and height of the screen on the desktop. This really could be improved but was likely done to keep costs down.
Those hoping to use the VAIO JS130 for gaming will be disappointed. To keep costs down, Sony has used the Intel GMA X4500HD integrated graphics. While one of the better Intel graphics processors as it can handle HD video streams, it still doesn't have the performance for 3D PC games.
Sony has made a very well laid out and functional keyboard for use with the VAIO JS130. The drawback is that they still use a wired USB design. It would be nice to see Sony switch this to a wireless design to key wires from the desktop entirely.
