Desktop computers are a good solution if you want a computer with power, with great upgradeability and a long lifespan, whether they are those that are assembled or those that you order by parts. Laptops stand out for their high portability, although they have fewer features and generally last less. But what are all in one computers?
We find out what they are, how they differ from other types of computers, what makes them stand out and what makes them weak, and whether it’s worth buying one, as well as the ideal type of user who prefers them.
What are they and how are they different from other computers?
All in One computers are those in which all its components, including the screen, are in the same space. They are desktop computers that take up less space because all the hardware components have been integrated into the same case as the screen. A clear example of this is its first model, the Apple Macintosh.
With respect to laptops, they differ mainly in that they do not have a built-in keyboard and mouse. In addition, they must be permanently plugged into the electrical current, so they do not stand out for their portability. Its screen is thicker, but also larger and with better quality on many occasions.
If we can say anything about conventional desktop computers, it is that they gain in space and attractiveness, which is why it becomes a good option for those who have little space on their desk and do not want to go around with so much wiring. One of its charms is its physical appearance, although this is not exactly going to be a determining factor when buying a new computer, at least not in most cases.
Advantages and disadvantages of all in one computers
In order to make an informed decision regarding these computers, we are going to tell you how they stand out compared to laptops and desktop computers and what their main drawbacks are. Thus, you will be able to see if it is the option that best suits your preferences or criteria or if it is better for you to make another decision.
Although in many cases you will find that the panorama does not seem to be especially favorable with respect to this type of computer, however, there are users who see them as the best option because they fit what they are looking for.
What are its advantages
There are many advantages that this type of computer has, so we will tell you which are the main ones and what put the balance in your favor if you are having doubts before making the final decision.
Screen
The screen is generally good, with larger dimensions and quality. In many cases they are touch screens, which is a clear advantage over other types of computers due to the convenience that this entails. In addition, this makes them a good choice for design and editing, especially if the quality of the components accompanies this strong point.
It is true that the screen stands out for being thicker than in other computers, and being an all-in-one, the components have to be found somewhere, however, it does not take up too much and makes up for it with its quality and space savings. it provides.
Design
Its aesthetic is usually more careful than in conventional desktop computers and creates a great attraction in a work or study space. In addition, the use of cables is considerably reduced with its unsightly effect and with which you might end up having to deal at some point. All this can contribute to better work performance because this is the effect that creates order and cleanliness in the office.
In addition, they are more customizable on an aesthetic level, so you can find the model that suits your tastes. One of the advantages of this for companies is that they give a better impression to their customers who see that they have modern and attractive equipment.
Retrench of space
One of its main attractions is that it takes up much less space than other computers, which means that you can place it practically anywhere. If your desk, work room, study or office has little space to place a computer, this will fit perfectly.
Its format is much more content, so even where space is not scarce, it can be used for other things. They also have the additional advantage that they can be installed on the wall, saving even more space.
Plus, they’re easier to transport than desktops, so you can relocate them when you need to, even if they don’t have the portability and mobility of laptops.
consume less energy
One of its main attractions is that it is all in one and you just have to plug it in to start working. It only has one power cable. Everything is in the same space and that means less consumption. For this reason, it consumes less electricity than a desktop computer. In times when electricity is much more expensive, it is not an advantage that we should neglect.
Perhaps this is one of the strong points that could make this investment worthwhile in the long term, although it is something that should be valued since the consumption of a computer does not usually stand out as being excessive.
built-in speakers
These computers stand out because they include all the components in one, and this also usually refers to the speakers. You will not have to buy them separately, with the doubt about which are the best, if they will go well with the equipment or provide good performance. But above all, this entails cost savings, since it is included in the price, and it also means space. The speakers usually take up more than it seems and require placement in strategic areas. You can avoid these headaches.
In addition, if these stand out for something, it is that they are usually of quality and offer a good sound. You can enjoy movies, series and audiovisual content with better sound, enjoying them from the first moment.
And its disadvantages?
Although they have many strengths, and that we must consider, they also have their disadvantages that can make you choose another option. One of its main drawbacks is its price, since it is usually higher than desktop computers that have the same or greater features.
There may also be more models with more limited resources, and also without the possibility of increasing their performance. This creates the need that if you decide to buy it, you have to spend a lot of time choosing one that suits you now and in the future.
Less power and component capacity
One of its main drawbacks is that by having to save space, you end up limiting power options, since you can’t opt for desktop components, which means that we have to buy equipment with less CPU or graphics card. Manufacturers end up using components with fewer features.
Of course, there may be exceptions that have very powerful components, but there are not many and they are more expensive. Restrictions in cooling are also noted, which can cause it to overheat more easily.
highest price
One of its disadvantages is its high price, since they are usually more expensive than desktop ones, offering fewer features. You will find different models of computers of all kinds on the market, but if you look at their features you will see that these are the same with the same or even less. If you are willing to pay a little more for the comforts of these models, it will not matter to you, but it is something that you have to take into account.
In addition, expanding it is going to be much more complicated and expensive, so from the beginning you have to think very well about which model to select taking into account your future needs. Installing new components, if possible, becomes more expensive and there aren’t as many high-performance options, so if you don’t choose well you’ll run out in a short time.
They hardly allow extensions
Its expansion possibilities are limited, so if you are lucky enough to find a model with very powerful components that does not go beyond your budget, you can take advantage of it, since it is not usual. Keep in mind that, as we have already said, expanding can be more expensive than we imagine, and more compared to desktop computers, and in many cases it is not worth it.
You can’t change the plate. Only the hard drive, RAM and graphics, and sometimes not even these components. This also means that if something fails you may have to consider changing equipment.
Temperature
Since there is so little space for many components, good thermal solutions cannot be included, so you may find that temperature becomes an issue in your model when performing tasks that require high performance.
This also makes them noisier. It is true that there are exceptions and other noisier computers, but if the noise bothers you or you are afraid that it will end up being damaged, this is something that you have to take into account, especially if you use the computer a lot.
Are these computers worth it?
All-in-one computers are a middle ground between a desktop and a laptop, since they have the advantages of each of them, but they also have significant disadvantages. They usually have a performance similar to that of a laptop in the presence of a desktop computer, although with more attractiveness and without its portability to take them wherever we want. If we add to this that they are much more expensive than a desktop computer, it is necessary to assess very well what you really need to make the best decision, since as a general rule they are not usually the best option.
If you are looking for a very attractive solution with the touch screen function to have on your desk or office, and you do not usually carry out high-performance tasks, it may be a good idea for the elegance and presence it brings. In addition, you can value the acquisition of a model with high-end components. Currently, there are models that can offer you the features you need at a price that can fit your pocket. It’s up to you.
