Lifestyle Computers, the Next Big Thing?

Anonymous Howard asks: "Lifestyle computers, otherwise known as 'computers with everything contained in a single unit', are extremely popular in Japan, where living spaces are much smaller then in the North America. Probably the most popular that I know of that was released are the Apple iMacs. Many of the major manufactures like Sony and HP have released Lifestyle computers, like the Sony PCV-W20. What I like to see are the unique stylings from companies I've never heard of over in Japan, like the Sotec Afina AS7180AV, I think it looks somewhat like a high heel shoe from the side. How many of you would find these types of computers useful? In particular, if you are living in a space where you are not cramped for space, would you ever buy one? Are there any other interesting machines like the Sonys/Afina/new iMacs that not only have function, but act as a stylish addition to the room?"

Comments

Have a PCV-W20

[moosesocks]

I've got a PCV-120. Actually, I've had it for well over a year and a half (they're not exactly new)

My impressions of it are as follows: It's not a performance-thrilling machine, but makes up for it where it counts. It's small, has DVD/CDRW, and a flash reader, so you shouldn't need any external devices

I really like the fold-up keyboard, though I do wish it were detachable if you ever desired to use a real keyboard, as the built-in one is little more than a laptop keyboard (though it's a pretty damn nice laptop keyboard at that). My favorite part, though, is quite simple... The screen is protected by a 1/4 inch piece of plexiglass! Making it imprevious to liquids and other stuff (though I don't believe the keyboard has any sort of protection which is probably an oversight)

My only practical complaints are that it has intergrated video and the built-in speakers are somewhat tinny. Apart from that, it's a pretty sweet PC.