Should I go for a Desktop PC or an All-In-One?

In ye olden days a computer was the size of a large room. Not ideal, but we suppose you knew where you were with it – if you knew your way around it! Of course, the technology advanced rapidly over the following decades and here in the twenty-first century you don’t need to own a second home or even a shed to house your PC.

These days a simple desk or table will do – though we’re at a point on the computing curve where there is so much choice it can be quite confusing to know which is ‘the right thing’ to go for when you’re looking for a new device to put onto that desk or table (whether that’s in the office or at home).

Don’t panic, though! It’s not that difficult to come to a conclusion. You just need to work out what you need – as in, what will the computer be used for?

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Once you’ve worked out what the main uses for the computer will be (as in: a bit of light household admin, or working from home, or entertainment or gaming), then your choice will focus down and become clearer. You could go for a laptop, of course, but if you are looking for something a little more ‘permanent’ then you should really be thinking about a desktop PC or even an all-in-one.

Let’s check out what both of these are.

What is a desktop PC?

The chances are that you will already know! So it’d be easy to give in to the temptation to glibly answer: “It’s a PC that goes on your desktop” – but in truth that’s about the size of it, in the most basic way of putting it. A desktop PC is a box which contains a series of components powerful enough, in combination, to tackle all of your tasks with ease. If you are word processing, or looking at photographs, or streaming music then a desktop computer can do it.

Obviously if you choose to go for a desktop PC then you would need to make sure that the components contained within your computer are appropriate for your likely use (ie. powerful enough to handle what you put them through).

The more powerful models are brilliant for creative work such as video editing – and, of course, for gaming. A top-notch gaming desktop PC can house a state-of-the-art processor and graphics hardware so that you can enjoy some serious gaming sessions – particularly if you also upgrade all of your peripherals so that you have a set-up with maximum win potential!

There are always variants in the general shape and ‘vibe’ of a desktop PC (for instance RGB lighting and so on) but a desktop feels like you would immediately expect a computer to feel.

Big plus points of desktop PCs

One of the biggest advantages of desktop PCs over all other types of computer is that you can easily upgrade by replacing internal components. You are only, really, limited by the number of bays available within your PC case.

If you have a laptop and are thinking about upgrading, you’d find it a really intricate process which, to be honest, is best-handled by a computer expert. The components within a laptop are much more tightly packed in a particularly confined space. A desktop PC offers much easier access to its components, many of which can be easily replaced or upgraded.

One of the most brilliant things about desktop PCs is the potential for case modification (or ‘modding’ as it is known amongst those who do it! In simple terms, modding is when you change the appearance of your PC’s outer case by repainting, redesigning, reforming by adding or taking away bits… If you do this, you will end up with a totally ‘one off’ look for your desktop PC, which will make a genuine individual statement.

Okay, PCs sound great – but what’s an all-in-one?

Essentially it is still a desktop PC, so don’t panic. It’s not a completely different device. It will do more-or-less the same things. But an all-in-one doesn’t have a large case packed with components. The internals of an all-in-one are actually built into the back of your monitor. So, other than needing to plug in a keyboard and a mouse (or use Wi-Fi versions), your computing needs are all contained within one box – and it has a screen on the front!

What are the advantages of an all-in-one?

If you put them side by side it’s easy to see the main advantage of an all-in-one over a traditional desktop PC. You will need much less space on your desk to position your all-in-one. Regular desktop PCs have a much bigger form factor and some bulk, and so they give off an aura of being solid and reliable due to that – but they can feel a little ungainly. They’re not exactly portable and, of course, there is also the need to have various cables connecting things. With a large screen and a compact, neat and tidy design an all-in-one can be a much more enticing proposition for the home or office.

In many homes or offices it’s possible that you’d struggle to find the most convenient position for a computer and monitor and all of the peripherals. You end up with everything spilling out over a larger area than you would like – or, in fact, you try and cram everything into an area much smaller than you need.

Your desktop PC tower may end up not on the desktop but on the floor or in a hard-to-reach position on the desk. Switching things over to an all-in-one situation means you can save a lot of space or maximise what little you have.

AIOs are very convenient devices and, in a way, it’s worth thinking about them as the desktop version of a laptop. Although that might seem a little convoluted, it’s actually about right – not just because everything you need is contained within one unit, but because of the components used. Thinking about all-in-ones in this way is both an advantage and a disadvantage.

Any disadvantages to an all-in-one PC?

If you decide to go for an all-in-one then there is a bit of a compromise you’ll have to make. Due to the smaller form factor of an all-in-one then it will contain less powerful components.

All-in-ones are often powered by the laptop versions of the PU and graphics card contained within. Though they are capable components, these do pump out considerably less power than the equivalents you’d find in a standard desktop PC. As a consequence of this, we don’t really recommend all-in-ones for anyone who is looking to do some serious gaming.

Another unfortunate trade-off for anyone going for an all-in-one over a desktop PC is that the components within are, usually, not able to be upgraded. Because of the restrictions on space there is only, really, the RAM or Hard Drive which could be accessed for upgrade. Even then it is worth noting that not all models are built to allow even this.

Anything else that’s a disadvantage?

Well, yes. Because the components are not as powerful as those in a desktop PC, all-in-ones tend to be slower in terms of performance straight out of the box. So you might find that you need to upgrade more quickly than you would if you went down the traditional route. Modern desktop PCs can last a decent while – but nothing is ever entirely ‘futureproof’ and so after fi you will ve years or so you will probably benefit from an upgrade. In the case of all-in-ones that five years could be truncated to ‘a few years’.

Also, if you decided that you would like to upgrade the display monitor and the speakers (say, something future-similar to the leap from Full HD to 4K) then you are at a potential disadvantage. These parts of a computer system do ‘age better’ than internal components, but in an all-in-one you don’t have the option to upgrade.

Ultimately, with an all-in-one a valuable rule to imprint on your thinking is “If one thing goes wrong the whole thing goes wrong”. So if you’re really set on an AIO rather than a desktop PC then you should definitely think about buying as far beyond what you need as you can afford. More power and more memory should protect you from pocket-pain for a while.

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My concern is money. So which is cheaper – a desktop or an AIO?

Cash is always a valid concern when it comes to computing. But it’s also always worth remembering that the more you pay the more you get. The more protected you are against, frankly, obsolescence.

In terms of value for money, a desktop PC sits at the top of the tree. You simply cannot buy a laptop or an all-in-one with equivalent power without paying way over. If portability and space saving is not so much of an issue for you, we would always recommend going down that route and investing in a desktop PC as a more efficient splash of your cash.

What about peripherals?

Some high-end all-in-ones come with a wireless keyboard and mouse, so you’re on the go straight out of the box and there’s no cable spaghetti on your desk. You can get set up in a couple of minutes, and everything will be way tidier than a ‘regular’ desktop PC hooked up to a monitor, keyboard and mouse using wires.

However, if your new all-in-one doesn’t come supplied with keyboard and mouse, don’t get in a panic about your peripherals. You won’t really need to splash out on special versions of a keyboard and mouse. Don’t forget your new all-in-one is only a computer, not some prima donna device which demands something specific.

If, though, you opt for a traditional larger form factor PC and go for an all-singing all-dancing gaming desktop then you ought to think about how you can maximise your win potential by investing in some great gaming peripherals. You ought to think about the three key peripherals to give yourself the advantage over your opponents and take your gaming to a new level:

• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Headset

So, in the end a desktop is best?

Well, as a route to get to the answer to that question, let’s run through the pros and cons of all-in-ones.

Pros

• Compact and space-efficient
• Reasonable specs

Cons

• Cost in comparison to PC
• Less powerful components
• Repair inconvenience
• Not customisable

When we put it down ‘on paper’ as baldly as that, it seems desktop PCs are the smart way to go. But, as we adivse with every bit of tech we ever talk about, what you go for does really depend on what you will be using the device for. Desktops are the Daddy of the whole darn family, but (like laptops) all-in-ones do definitely have their strengths and their appeal. But, as we said right at the start, if you possibly can you should give your needs a little more consideration than your budget. Working out exactly what you will be using the device for should have the biggest bearing on what you get.

Desktops and all-in-ones at Ebuyer

Here at Ebuyer we have lots of quality desktop PCs and AIOs available to suit all budgets and needs. Whether you are a casual home user, a business looking to tech up the staff, or a serious gamer, there will definitely be something suitable for you. Browse at our website for a wider view of what’s available…

To begin with, it is essential to understand that all-in-one (AIO) computers are typically considered desktop computers. However, they differ from the rest of the desktop PCs, such as tower, mini or stick PCs, in terms of several factors; portability, affordability, design, and performance to name a few. 

An AIO computer sports everything that is necessary as a desktop component. So, you’re getting a processor, memory, video card, monitor, and speakers – all in the same device. It even comes with an excellent webcam. On the other hand, all other types of desktop computers mentioned above are machines that host just the processing unit of a computer. They consist of a processor, memory, and a graphics card among other internal parts. Hence, they need to be paired with a monitor, speakers, keyboard, and mouse. 

Both AIO and non-AIO desktop PCs have their fair share of pros and cons. In this guide, we attempt to draw a comparison between regular AIO computers and all other kinds of desktop PCs. We have categorized the discussion below into sections on price, design, and performance. 

All-in-one computer vs desktop PC: price

• Desktop PCs offer more flexibility in terms of purchasing additional components
• AIO computers are far more expensive to repair

The flexibility that comes with purchasing a desktop PC makes it more affordable than an AiO computer. This means that you can easily upgrade your desktop PC with a recently released CPU or GPU instead of investing in a new machine. However, in the case of an AIO computer, you don’t have much of a choice. Since AIOs come as a complete package that a brand has already put together, there is little flexibility offered in terms of customization and upgrades. Therefore, you’d have to replace the machine as a whole when the components inside get obsolete. 

Desktop PCs are also more affordable to repair. Overall, it would cost far less to open up a desktop and fix the component that’s causing the issue. In the case of AIO computers, repairs can end up being fairly pricey as they’re harder to tinker with if they even allow for the issue to be fixed.

• Winner: Desktop PC

(Image credit: Future)

All-in-one computer vs desktop PC: design

• AIO computers feature better form factor and take up less space
• You don’t need any additional shopping with an AIO
• Desktop PCs are extremely hard to move but easily configurable and repairable

An AIO packs everything in a small body and doesn’t take as much real estate on your desk as a desktop PC does. Not only is the latter considerably bigger in itself, but all its various components take additional space too. You may end up finding a relatively slim and low-profile desktop, but you would still need ample space for all other accessories. 

Closely related to the point mentioned above is the form factor of an AIO computer. An AIO computer beats a desktop PC by a mile. Its body is slimmer and much more appealing than that of a desktop. This isn’t to say that desktop PCs are unpleasant in terms of looks. In fact, the modern ones come equipped with attractive RGB lighting that enhances their overall aesthetic. But if form factor means a lot to you, definitely go for an AIO. 

An AIO computer also takes away the burden of additional shopping. Since you’re getting everything in a single package, you’re not required to spend your time and energy looking up and buying accompanying accessories. This can be particularly helpful if you’re someone who has limited knowledge in this area and wishes to upgrade without delving too deep into research. Whether or not that’s true for you, feel free to check out our guides on the best computer speakers, mice, keyboards, and monitors for some additional help. 

(Image credit: Shutterstock / EKKAPHAN CHIMPALEE)

Even though AIO computers aren’t exactly what many would call portable, especially compared to laptops, they’re still capable of being moved far more easily than other desktop PCs. Moving a desktop PC, if you ever need to, would be a hassle. Collecting its various peripherals, gathering all of its wires and cables, and managing the weight of it all isn’t easy. Hence, they heavily limit you to your workspace, way more than an AiO computer does. 

There are areas where other desktop PCs shine too. First of all, they offer an easily configurable design. As previously mentioned, it’s very simple to open a desktop and tweak the components inside. This can come in handy when you’re in the mood to upgrade. You can simply replace a specific part with the newest, most recent version of it. 

Whereas, with most AIOs, you’re pretty much stuck with the same body and configuration. You likely won’t have the flexibility to upgrade to newer components that are best suited to your needs. This could also result in problems when any of the features on your AIO gets outdated. 

The fact that an AIO computer is also much more difficult to repair is closely linked to the point above. In a desktop PC, there are several quick fixes that even a layman with little technical knowledge can manage. These include replacing a specific component, cleaning the fan, etc. An AIO, on the other hand, is quite difficult to open. In some cases, it doesn’t even allow the user to tinker with its inside parts. And when it does, its hardware is often extremely unreachable. 

The hardware inside an AIO is often soldered so well that it doesn’t allow tweaking. Moreover, opening up AIO computers is considered to go against the warranty in some cases. Repairs end up being a huge hassle, and the user has no option but to send the entire device to a technician. This doesn’t only cost the user significant money but also deprives them of a PC for a considerable amount of time, causing inconvenience. This also means that if there’s an issue with your display or the speakers inside, you’ll also have to send the whole thing out for repair.

• Winner: Tie

(Image credit: Acer)

All in one computer vs desktop PC: performance

• Processing power depends on your device’s model
• AIOs are easier to set up and often offer brilliant displays with touch control

Performance-wise, both AIOs and other kinds of desktop PCs can be powerful or not depending on their model. For instance, most Windows-powered AIOs are not quite powerful in terms of graphics. This is due to the fact that they feature integrated graphics cards, instead of dedicated ones. These include Intel or AMD graphics, which tend to perform not as well as Nvidia’s RTX cards that you’ll find in more robust desktop computers and gaming PCs.

On the other hand, some Apple AIOs feature an extremely powerful processor chip, the M1, which is excellent for graphics-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D graphic design, and photo editing. Hence, ultimately, the performance of a machine depends on the processing power and graphics of the model that you’re opting for. 

If your work requires using memory-intensive software or if you’re into hardcore gaming, an AIO computer with integrated graphics may be underwhelming for you. Even if you manage to run intense software on it, it may result in thermal throttling because of the lack of ventilation.

• Winner: Tie, depending on what you need

All in one computer vs desktop PC: upgradability

• Desktops are easier to upgrade
• Most AIO do not give you the option to upgrade their internals

AIO computers are also harder to upgrade as compared to desktop PCs. As mentioned already, desktop PCs are simple to open up, hence resulting in easier upgrades. Technology is constantly advancing and with newer versions being released every few months, you would likely want to get rid of obsolete components. This could include a speedier processor or an improved graphics card, among other things. 

In the case of an AIO, even if you invest in a system that offers the latest features and specs, they will, too, eventually start slowing down in a few years. Desktop PCs are incredibly simple to open up and tweak. You can simply take a graphics card out and install another. AIOs are more difficult to open up, and in most cases, they don’t allow the user to open them up at all. 

AIO computers are preferred over other desktop PCs in terms of how easy they are to set up, however. Offering a plug-and-play option, an AIO computer is practically ready to be used out of the box. In the case of a desktop PC, you’re supposed to pair a number of peripherals and manage several cables before you can use it.

AIO computers now offer quite advanced screen technology. Modern AIOs come equipped with premium displays offering rich colors and sharp picture quality. Often, they also sport touch control and pen support. This makes the device an excellent option for all your art and design-related needs.

• Winner: Tie

All-in-one computer vs desktop PC: Which one should you go for?

It’s a close competition between the two with desktop PCs winning by a slight margin. While there’s a tie in terms of design and performance, desktop PC aces in the price category. 

All in all, it ultimately depends on your workflow. If you have a very light workflow that involves MS Office and light browsing, then an AIO computer with integrated graphics may be sufficient for you. It would be able to manage your workload without heating up, and you wouldn’t feel the need to upgrade to the latest processor every few months. 

However, if your lifestyle involves playing intense games or your work requires you to use, for instance, professional video-editing software, then investing in either an Apple AIO or a desktop PC with dedicated graphics makes much more sense. It’s also easily configurable and simple to repair.