All-in-one PCs and laptops are convenient, compact, and suitable for both games and work with the appropriate configuration. They are valued for their small size and impressive capabilities. Is it possible to compare them and what to choose in the end?
What’s the Difference Between All-in-One PCs and Laptops
All-in-one PCs are intermediate between a personal computer and a laptop. They inherited their desktop location from desktop computers, although some models have a wall mount option. They inherited their performance from laptops: to maintain the small size of the case, they have to install the components used in laptops.
An all-in-one PC often looks like an ordinary monitor: a slightly thickened or completely flat body, a large display, and a stand. On the back, there are ports for connecting devices, but in general all-in-one PCs are preferred precisely for their small size and lack of unnecessary wires – usually, a monoblock needs only a power cable. The all-in-one PC can also be mounted on the wall, saving space on your desk.
The display of an all-in-one PC is larger than that of a laptop – this is due to the fact that the laptop assumes the possibility of carrying it around, while all-in-one PCs are used stationary. Unlike a desktop computer, it’s much easier to move it to another place if necessary. Diagonal can range from 19 to 34 inches, which is convenient for watching movie buffs, play live casino, and editing videos and photos.
Connecting other devices to all-in-one PCs depends on the manufacturer and model. For example, Apple is gradually reducing the number of interfaces, making do with Thunderbolt and USB 3.0. Some manufacturers provide their products with the full set: here’s an Ethernet network jack and USB ports in several iterations, as well as HDMI and others, including even a slot for a memory card. All-in-one PCs are usually equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, so you can use wireless devices and enjoy minimalism in the workplace.
Graphics are most often represented by the built-in video chip processor, but sometimes there are models with discrete graphics cards used in laptops.
What Is Better to Choose: All-in-One PCs or Computers
Is there an advantage of an all-in-one PC over a computer? If you are not looking for maximum performance and prefer minimalism, including on your desk, an all-in-one PC is the right choice for you. A monitor and a computer take up a lot of space, while a standard-sized all-in-one combines the two in a single unit and is perfect for a small desk. If necessary, it’s easy to move it to another desk or even take it with you to the office.
In terms of technical characteristics, even the most advanced all-in-one PCs cannot catch up with a powerful desktop computer of a real gamer or enthusiast. You can play games on it with good equipment – even on ultra-low, but video rendering and other resource-intensive tasks will be better handled by the computer. With almost the same characteristics on paper, the PC’s performance will be noticeably higher.
A desktop computer can be upgraded by replacing components with more powerful ones: you can increase the amount of RAM and storage, change the video card or add another one, or even completely replace the motherboard to install the processor for a new socket.
In a cassette, usually, you can only replace the drive and RAM. Everything else is unsoldered on the motherboard. Some manufacturers, however, allow the installation of a video card, but in today’s models, this possibility is rare.
So if you need a stylish and compact device with a big display – an all-in-one PC will solve this problem, even if you have to sacrifice a little bit of performance. If performance and upgradability are paramount, then a desktop is your choice.
What’s Best for You
The main advantage of an all-in-one PC is the large display, which is convenient for work, entertainment, or watching movies. Also, an all-in-one PC with a keyboard, especially wireless, takes up less space than a laptop.
A laptop doesn’t boast a large diagonal screen but benefits from its mobility. At home, on the road, at work, at school, or in a cafe – the laptop will be your faithful companion. The built-in battery allows you to work even in a plane, train, or park. Over time, its charge drops, but usually, it happens 2-3 years after purchase.
In terms of performance, all-in-one PCs and laptops are about equal. The only exception is the top gamer models, which can compete even with desktop computers. Their disadvantage is a fairly high cost. Separately, it’s worth noting all-in-one PCs and Apple laptops – iMac and MacBook, respectively. They are distinguished by their recognizable stylish design and high performance.
Another advantage of laptops – is models-transformers with a touchscreen, which can easily turn into a large tablet or console. All-in-one PCs also come with a touchscreen, making it easy for the user to work.
You can’t upgrade a notebook as well as an all-in-one PC – you can only increase the amount of RAM, replace the hard drive with an SSD, or add another drive.
If you need a large display, it’s worth choosing an all-in-one PC. For those who value mobility and often work on the road, a laptop is perfect.
Summary
All in all, an all-in-one PC is an option for undemanding users who appreciate aesthetics and order. And not only on the desktop but also behind it. This solution is also chosen by those who do not want to study the market of components and the basics of assembling a PC. For example, a monoblock in the director’s office or on the desk of a schoolchild is a great option. And if, in terms of performance, an all-in-one PC cannot compete with a gaming PC, then in terms of comfort and screen size, it can easily beat a desktop laptop.
Of course, an all-in-one PC isn’t devoid of disadvantages like any other device. Users would like to see more models which can be seriously upgraded. It would help get rid of some of the disadvantages of an all-in-one PC. But nowadays, when we don’t have the possibility to make major upgrades, we should choose an all-in-one PC with a serious reserve of performance for the future.
