Asus offers Android and Windows in the one box

If you’re having trouble deciding whether you want a tablet or a desktop computer – an unorthodox choice, surely – there is now a compromise, with Asus showing its solution to both in the form of a new 18.4 inch all-in-one machine.

Fresh from its preview back in June last year, the Asus Transformer All-in-One PC takes what we remember about the Asus Android-based Transformer series and connects it with a much heavier base, blending a Windows machine and an Android tablet.

It’s a little different form your regular Windows machine, and it’s very different from your typical Android tablet, as Transformer All-in-One (AiO) packs in hardware specs closer to that of a proper desktop PC, but features a screen with its own separate hardware and operating system.

When connected, the 18.4 inch display functions as a monitor to the all-in-one machine, with the specs set to one of three third-generation Intel Core processors (either an i3 3220, i5 3350P, or an i7 3770), with 4GB RAM, 1TB hard drive, Nvidia GeForce GT 730M graphics, USB 3.0, dual-band WiFi, and a DVD burner.

That 18 inch screen also features 10 point multitouch and Full HD 1920×1080 resolution, making it ideal for working with Windows 8, which comes pre-installed.

Detach the screen from the all-in-one base and the tablet or “Transformer” section of the system activates with one of two functions.

A button on the side controls this, with the tablet able to wireless connect with the desktop and control Windows 8, or to use the Transformer technology inside – Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, 2GB RAM, and Android 4.1 “Jelly Bean” operating system – as its own device.

It’s an intriguing proposition, especially since the Transformer All-in-One offers up one of the largest tablet sizes out there, effectively producing one of the biggest touchscreen slate experiences.

The tablet-based all-in-one isn’t cheap, however, and if the idea of connecting both the world of desktop and tablet intrigues you, it will be landing at Harvey Norman stores across the country from $1999 RRP this month.