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The HP TouchSmart 520-1070 all-in-one desktop PC isn't for the budget set, but a quad-core Intel processor, 2TB hard drive, and a slew of entertainment features make it a worthwhile purchase.

This is a great deal: an excellent performer with premium specs for less than $1400

The TouchSmart 520-1050y is not a bad computer, and it's even mostly competitive next to similar all-in-ones in its price range. But simple math dictates that I can't recommend this retail-only model when you can find the exact same configuration on HP.com for $50 less.

HP was offering a $300 instant rebate on this machine at press time, taking its online price down to just $1,200. That’s an exceptional price for a computer this powerful.

Overall, the HP TouchSmart 520 is a really nice all-in-one and probably one of the best I’ve spent time with thus far, with a classy design and a powerful processor that ensures it will remain relevant for several years.

We’re yet to be convinced that touchscreens are the way to go with Windows 7, especially with touch-focused Windows 8 just around the corner. But the TouchSmart still succeeds thanks to a bright, highly-detailed screen and a great audio performance.

Not the most exciting all-in-one, but it’s a well-made and reasonably priced living room PC

In this economy, the TouchSmart 520 is a bit steep at $1,400 direct from HP, though it's often marked down several hundred Benjamins via other retailers and HP itself, bringing the price down closer to $1,200. Either way, this is a solid machine for the money and a great example of how to build an...

The HP TouchSmart nails it! Its not only a fine all-in-one PC. It’s also a ridiculously entertaining touch based PC, with just about everything you will need to complete tasks, get work done and play your favorite media.

No matter how you configure the TouchSmart 520, you’ll get a well-designed entertainment PC with a crisp 23-inch display, booming audio, and the best touch software going.