The advantages and disadvantages of an all-in-one PC
In short
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
| All parts are in tune | Upgrading is more difficult | |
| It looks stylish and organized | Did something break? Replace everything | |
| You need less space |
All parts are in tune
Like the name suggests, an all-in-one is a combination of a desktop and a monitor, often featuring a webcam and speakers. Because all those parts form one whole, they're in tune. This also makes installation a lot easier than when you choose a PC with a separate monitor.
It looks stylish and organized
An all-in-one has a sleek design, especially compared to the often bulkier and more boring computer cases. If you're looking for a computer to put in a central spot in your living room, an all-in-one PC is an interesting option because of its good looks. On top of that, you need fewer cables to connect an all-in-one PC. 1 or 2 cables are often enough, especially if you work with a wireless mouse and keyboard.
You need less space
Because you don't have to find a spot for a separate computer case, the all-in-one PC takes up a lot less space. That's handy if you're looking for a computer for a spot with little space, or if your desk isn't too big. You can also often find all-in-one PCs on kitchen tables. There's usually less room here, and the chance that you spill something is larger. Because the parts of an all-in-one PC are in the monitor, you won't quickly spill a glass of water over delicate parts.
Upgrading is more difficult
If you notice that you need a little more RAM or storage space a year after purchase, a 'normal' desktop is usually very easy to upgrade. Most computer cases even have empty drawers that you can install a hard drive in, for example. Upgrading an all-in-one PC is a lot more difficult. The parts are a lot harder to reach, and you sometimes have to remove the glass plate from the screen to do so.
Did something break? Replace everything
If a part of an all-in-one PC breaks, chances are that you can't replace the separate part, especially in case of the screen. You'll have to replace everything. With a separate PC and monitor, replacing a part is a lot easier. If your monitor breaks, you don't have to buy a new desktop right away.
