Microsoft's all-in-one PC, the Surface Studio 2, is one of the most expensive all-in-one PCs. — Microsoft/dpa
The concept of the all-in-one PC is as simple as it is ingenious: all of the technology is integrated into the monitor. It's this simplicity and clarity that appeals to many users.
"Manufacturers install processors, storage, ventilation and more behind the screen. Sometimes these components are also stored in a stand," says product tester Michael Knott.
"People often opt for an all-in-one PC from an aesthetic and practical point of view," he says. They're designed to work straight out of the box. Keyboards and mice are usually included.
It's not just consumers who are choosing these compact computers, they're also in demand in the professional sector, says Rian Voss from Chip magazine. "Many graphic designers and video editors have sworn by Apple's iMacs for years, mainly because of the screen quality."
One of the big advantages of the all-in-one PC is its small footprint. "I don't need to connect anything big by cable and just have to plug the device into the power (socket)," says Christian Hirsch from c't magazine.
If you use a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, you won't have to struggle with cables anymore and will save space on and under your desk.
All-in-one PCs generally offer significantly larger screens than notebooks. "Compared to a normal notebook with a screen size of 13in or 15in, all-in-one PCs have screen diagonals of 22in to 27in," Hirsch says. The resolution is also higher.
On the downside, repair is difficult because the space behind the screen or in the stand is limited. "The components are often not so easily accessible. If a something breaks, it often affects the entire device," Knott says.
Due to the space available and the limited cooling options, often less efficient components from the notebook sector are used. In addition, all-in-one PCs can only be upgraded to a limited extent. Generally only the memory or hard drive can be changed.
Another disadvantage can be the durability of the display panel. "A screen does not get better over time and often the brightness diminishes after some use," Voss says.
In the case of a classic desktop PC you can just buy a new monitor, but with an all-in-one computer you need to change the whole device.
Before purchasing you should check that the screen, processor and graphics are all adequate for your needs. An SSD hard drive will also significantly speed things up. Anyone who buys blindly, throws a lot of money out the window because of the lack of upgrade options, Voss says.
The connection options are also important. "Otherwise, consumers have to ruin the minimalist design with cables, hubs and adapters," Voss says. It also makes sense to check how noisy the cooling fan is before you buy. – dpa
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