When considering which computer to purchase – whether it’s for gaming, work or just general use – there are plenty of options available. For starters, most people would assume that a desktop PC is the automatic choice.
However, there are other options at your disposal, including All-in-One computers (AIO). An All-in-One computer is a popular choice for many users as it offers plenty of benefits and the same functions as a standard desktop PC.
But what is an All-in-One PC, and how does it differ from a desktop PC? Continue reading to find out everything.
What are All-in-One Computers?
An All-in-One computer is a piece of technology that combines the monitor and separate tower that makes a desktop PC, becoming a single unit that features all the same functionality as a standard computer.
An All-in-One PC is just a monitor with all of the components of a computer built internally. All you need to use one is a keyboard and mouse.
What are Desktop PCs?
A desktop PC houses all of its internal components inside a tower that is separate from the monitor.
This includes the motherboard, GPU, CPU, SSD, cooling system and more. Many people tend to build their own desktop PC for gaming purposes so they have the most powerful components inside that suit their budget, rather than purchasing a ready-made PC.
However, most people wanting a PC will simply buy a ready-made traditional desktop PC to complete all of their work and browse the web.
Benefits of an All-in-One PC
There are many advantages to using an All-in-One computer. From portability to convenience, these are the reasons why so many people choose All-in-One PCs as their main computer.
- Compact – If you’re short on space then an All-in-One computer is ideal. Due to the lack of a separate tower, all you have to make space for is a display, a keyboard and mouse.
- Portable – Another key benefit of All-in-One PCs is that they can be easily transported. Again, due to the lack of a separate tower, you can simply pick up and move the monitor to a position that suits you. The vast majority of All-in-Ones are lightweight and easy to carry.
- Convenience – The convenience that an All-in-One offers is unrivalled. Everything you need is right there, straight out of the box. There’s no need to connect HDMI wires from the tower to the monitor; simply plug it in and get started.
- Touch screen – A lot of All-in-One computers come fitted with a touchscreen, which is a popular choice for a wide range of individuals. As we are so used to having touchscreen smartphones, tablets and even laptops now, the feature in All-in-Ones is a popular option compared to a traditional desktop PC.
- Aesthetics – Finally, the aesthetics an All-in-One computer offers makes it hugely popular. Like the space limitations point, having a single monitor without a tower taking up lots of space makes an AIO computer a popular choice, especially if it’s in a main room in the house, not hidden away in a bedroom or office.
Benefits of Desktop PCs
Equally, there are a wide variety of benefits for desktop computers. They’ve been around for decades and, while laptops and tablets are now hugely popular, there’s still nothing quite like the power a desktop computer can offer.
- Customisation – The first benefit that comes to mind about desktop PCs is how customisable they are. Not only can you build a desktop PC from scratch with internal hardware you source yourself, but you can always swap out components for more powerful ones in your standard setup.
- Affordable – If you need a desktop PC for standard internet usage and something to complete your work on while at home, you can easily find an affordable option. A standard desktop PC costs less than All-in-Ones because the latter uses smaller computer components, which requires additional development.
- Repairable – Desktop PCs are easy to repair because the internal components are so easy to replace. If there’s an issue with the CPU, installing a new one should fix the issue. The same applies to the graphics card, storage and the motherboard.
- More powerful -The final benefit of a desktop PC is how powerful it can be. Of course, like most technology, the better the components, the more powerful the computer is. Desktop PCs can produce excellent performance, whether it’s for gaming with the highest quality graphics and refresh rates, or video editing.
Desktop PC vs All-in-One Computers – which is better?
When comparing a desktop PC and an AIO computer, there are a wide range of factors to consider. To make it as clear as possible, we’ll compare each of their benefits and see which one comes out on top.
Compactness and portability
AIO computers comfortably beat out desktop PCs when it comes to compactness and ease of manoeuvrability. Due to having a large tower comprising all the components, it’s quite difficult to move a desktop computer to another location.
Plus, you need to ensure you have enough space to house a desktop computer, but an AIO computer can be used in most places.
Convenience and aesthetics
Again, the All-in-One PC is a lot more convenient than a desktop computer thanks to being ready straight out of the box. As previously mentioned, there are no HDMI wires to connect to the tower; simply plug it in and start up the machine.
In terms of aesthetics, the AIO computer can often trump the desktop PC because of how seamlessly it blends into your surroundings and decor. However, many gaming PC users would argue the RGB lighting on their custom computer creates a beautiful display of colour.
Customisation and repairability
If you’re in the market for customising your PC by upgrading its components then desktop PCs are your ideal choice. You’re unable to truly upgrade the internals of an AIO computer like you can with a desktop PC. It’s for this reason that gamers tend to choose a desktop as their go-to for playing their favourite high-definition games.
The same can be applied to the repair of a computer, too. Due to All-in-One PCs using smaller, complex components, it’s a lot more difficult – and expensive – to repair AIOs than desktop PCs.
Affordability
Again, the desktop PC is the better option when it comes to price. There is a wide range of desktop computers on the market today that are suitable for a variety of different budgets and intentions. If you need something for standard computing needs, there is a desktop PC for it. An All-in-One computer, on the other hand, may come at a costly fee considering the complex components, touch screen functionality and portability.
Power
When comparing a desktop PC vs an All-in-One computer, there is no competition when it comes to power. Because you can customise a desktop computer the way you want, you can pack it full of high-powered components to make it run even the most demanding games and editing software.
All-in-One vs Desktop PCs Summary
So, which do you prefer – an AIO computer or a desktop? If you have less space and like the functionality of a touch screen, All-in-One PCs are perfect.
However, if you prefer the power and convenience of the ability to customise your machine, a desktop is your best bet.
Whatever you prefer, you can buy it from Inside Tech. If you have any more questions about our range of desktop PCs, don’t hesitate to contact us today and we’ll be happy to help.
