Dell 24 AIO (EC24250): Does beautiful design compensate for poor performance?
Dell's all-in-one computer scores points with its vibrant IPS display and sharp webcam, however, the Core 5-120U processor is a major drawback.
Modern aesthetics and the limitations in design
The Dell 24 All-in-One (EC24250) makes a strong first impression with its all-white design, giving it a clean and modern look. It's complemented by thin bezels, an integrated speaker bar, and a pop-up webcam for enhanced privacy. The isosceles triangle stand, which Dell calls "isosceles," provides solid stability, but its large size may take up a lot of desk space.
One point to note is that the included stand only supports tilt adjustment, lacking height adjustment and not being compatible with VESA mounts. This means users will have no other installation options besides the default stand.
Full HD display and multimedia experience
The 23.8-inch IPS screen of the Dell 24 AIO offers good display quality with vibrant colors, high brightness, and wide viewing angles. The anti-glare coating effectively minimizes reflections. However, the resolution is only Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels), sufficient for a 24-inch screen but potentially lacking sharpness for users requiring high detail.
The highlight of the multimedia experience is the pop-up webcam, which provides sharp, well-lit images and integrates an infrared sensor for Windows Hello facial recognition. Conversely, the 5-watt speaker system is disappointing. While producing clear stereo sound, bass performance is very poor, and significant distortion is present even at medium volume. This is a missed opportunity for a machine geared towards home entertainment.
Processing power: The performance challenge of the Core 5-120U
In terms of configuration, the Dell 24 AIO (EC24250) is essentially a rebranded version of the Inspiron 24 AIO (5430) and still uses older generation hardware. The reviewed version is equipped with an Intel Core 5-120U processor, a rather unique chip with only two Performance cores and eight Efficiency cores, more suitable for ultra-portable laptops.
In real-world tests, this configuration is sufficient for everyday office tasks and web browsing. However, when faced with CPU-intensive tasks such as video editing or graphics rendering, the Core 5-120U reveals its limitations and delivers significantly lower performance compared to competitors in the same price range, and falls far short of the Apple iMac. The integrated Intel Graphics is also only adequate for basic needs and streaming, not for gaming.
Wireless ports and peripherals
Dell has equipped this AIO model with a diverse and useful range of connectivity ports. On the back, users will find four USB 3.2 Type-A ports, a Gigabit Ethernet jack, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The machine also has separate HDMI 1.4b input and output ports, allowing the AIO to be used as an external monitor. A single USB Type-C port is located on the right edge for convenient access. In terms of wireless connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Included with the laptop is a wireless keyboard and mouse, connecting via a single USB receiver. The keyboard offers a soft typing feel but lacks some tactile feedback. The mouse has a comfortable, symmetrical design, but the sensor placement might be inconvenient for some users in controlling the cursor. Both devices are white, matching the laptop, but they may show dirt and grime over time.
Specifications for Dell 24 All-in-One (EC24250)
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type of computer | All-in-One |
| Processor | Intel Core 5-120U |
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Hard drive | 512 GB SSD |
| Screen size | 23.8 inches |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 pixels |
| Screen type | IPS (Touchscreen optional) |
| Graphics card | Intel Graphics |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home |
Overall assessment: Who is this choice for?
The Dell 24 All-in-One (EC24250) is a reliable choice for everyday tasks in a home or small office space, especially for those who prioritize a sleek and modern design. Its strengths include a vibrant display, a high-quality webcam, and a comprehensive range of connectivity ports.
However, limited CPU performance and disappointing speaker quality are factors to consider carefully. At its listed price, this product is difficult to compete with, especially when compared to the basic Apple iMac. Nevertheless, the Dell 24 AIO remains a reasonable option for users with a moderate budget and basic needs, especially when purchased during sales.
