What it is
Considering the small dimensions of most apartments, an all-in-one computer can be an excellent option for anyone who cannot afford a separate workstation for installing a personal computer. Unlike laptops, all-in-one computers have fairly large screen sizes, making them much more convenient for home use.
Combining the powerful parameters of modern computers and at the same time fitting into a monitor case, one such universal device can easily replace many equipment:
- TV (thanks to the built-in TV tuner);
- personal computer system unit;
- widescreen monitor;
- means of communication using a webcam;
- multimedia center with multiple interfaces.
All this can be obtained in one monoblock, which will fit on any table, and, unlike a PC, will not take up much space, and will not become a dust collector with a large number of wires.
Advantages
Unlike laptops, the main advantage of an all-in-one is the screen matrix. With modern equipment, its quality can be comparable to an expensive and luxurious TV. If you are choosing a device that will be better for your home, then you should definitely think about buying an all-in-one.
The dimensions of this device are in no way comparable to mobile and portable devices. They reach from 15.5 to 27 inches, like modern monitors. In addition, unlike laptops, they are completely silent because they do not contain active cooling systems. And yet, almost no laptop is equipped with such a powerful speaker system and will not give you such sound quality.
If you are deciding which device is more suitable for your home and which is better, an all-in-one or a computer, then you should pay attention to several facts. As for the system units of personal devices, the advantages of compactness and the absence of wires are obvious. If we talk about the price of the issue, then it is almost the same for devices with identical characteristics.
As for savings, by using a “computer desk”, which, as a rule, is purchased and installed for a system unit, you can save not only space, but also extra money.
Comparison of different types of equipment
Even with some shortcomings, all-in-one PCs are gradually gaining popularity. However, both stationary personal computers and laptops are still not losing ground. To make it easier to evaluate the pros and cons of all-in-one computers in comparison with the types of computer equipment we are used to, a brief comparative analysis of the devices is offered.
Monoblock or computer?
Table. Comparison of a monoblock with a stationary PC.
| Characteristic | Monoblock | Desktop computer |
| Space required for placement | There is no need to allocate a large space, since you only need to install one monitor (it can also be hung on the wall). The camera, microphone, and speakers are usually built into the unit. The mouse and keyboard are wireless. You just need to plug the power cord into an outlet. The workplace looks tidier, and the comfort for the user in this case is much higher. | A separate space is required for both the monitor and the network unit, as well as for speakers. In this case, a large number of wires are used to connect all components. |
| Acoustic parameters | The sound of the monoblock is quite decent (of course, it is worse than that of a high-quality speaker system with a subwoofer). Acoustics are built in. | When equipped, you can select a speaker system that best meets the needs of the computer owner. However, this entails additional costs. In addition, you will have to allocate free space to install the equipment. |
| Performance | It is not always possible to install high-power components into a monoblock (due to limitations on the size of components). In addition, they need a good cooling system to work. Gaming-type monoblocks are produced that are characterized by high performance. But their price may not always satisfy the consumer. | It is much easier to place powerful components in a system unit. At the same time, the cost of the finished product will be quite affordable. For those who try to constantly keep up with technological progress, it is much easier to upgrade a desktop computer than an all-in-one computer. |
| Appearance | The candy bar design is much more attractive. Moreover, the consumer has the opportunity to choose a model that is in harmony with various style concepts of interior design. | In addition to the computer itself, when placing it, it is necessary to properly design the entire workplace. Many people try to cover system units so that they are not conspicuous. The monitors of all computers look approximately the same (they differ only in size). |
| Price | Those who want to purchase a universal and visually attractive device have to overpay somewhat (due to the fact that a large number of components of mobile systems are used). On average, you will have to pay from 40 to 100 thousand rubles for a monoblock. However, trends in the development of the computer equipment market give reason to believe that in the near future the difference in price will not be so noticeable. | If we compare equipment that is identical in functionality and characteristics, the price of a desktop computer is much more attractive than the cost of an analogue without a system unit. |
| Touch screen | There is no particular need for such a monitor (unless there is a need to use applications or games created specifically for this type of display), besides, if you use the touchscreen for a long time for work, your hand will quickly get tired. But, if you hang the monitor on the wall, for example, in the kitchen, then it will be convenient for the housewife to control the monoblock while preparing dishes. | Desktop computers, as a rule, are not equipped with this type of display. |
Still, it is impossible to unequivocally answer which is better - an all-in-one computer or a computer with a system unit. When choosing technology, you have to take into account many factors. But for a small apartment or small office, the compactness of the device often becomes an important advantage . In addition, today models are produced for various purposes: home, office, gaming, etc. A candy bar is especially suitable for those who do not want to delve into the selection of necessary components.
In addition to comparing desktop and all-in-one computers, many potential buyers need to conduct a comparative analysis of laptops and all-in-one computers (many consider them similar).
Monoblock or laptop
Table. Comparison of characteristics of laptops and all-in-one PCs.
| Characteristic | Monoblock | Laptop |
| Performance | A larger case allows you to equip the monoblock with more powerful components that can cope with high loads and organize better cooling. | “Weaker” processors are installed on this equipment. |
| Screen size | Monoblocks have monitor sizes from 19″. But if you wish, you can also purchase a computer with a much more impressive screen: 24… 27 inches. Naturally, doing work, watching movies or playing on such a device is much more comfortable. | In most cases, laptops are equipped with 15" displays, but larger models may have 17 or 18" screens, but this is the maximum. |
| Hard drive capacity, video card power | The large size of the monitor also determines the possibility of equipping the device with more powerful components. For example, a monoblock can be equipped with a 4 TB hard drive. Video cards also have more power. | The maximum hard drive capacity of a laptop is 1 TB. |
| Compactness, weight | Despite the fact that the monoblock is small in size and weight, these characteristics are somewhat inferior to those of laptops. The latter are much easier to transport if necessary. | The laptop can be easily placed in a bag and used for its intended purpose, for example, on the road (it does not have any external devices). And this computer weighs much less. |
| Autonomy | The monoblock is connected to the electrical network. Even an uninterruptible power supply device (which you cannot take with you on the subway) is not a way out. | Power surges and power outages will not be a problem for those who own a laptop. The presence of a battery not only allows you to work at a computer away from the power grid, but also protects against the loss of important data in emergency situations (for example, an accident at a substation). |
| Sound | The multimedia quality of an all-in-one PC is much higher than that of a laptop. | This computer simply cannot accommodate high-quality speakers. |
| Touch screen | The all-in-one PC can be equipped with a touch screen (but its size is larger than that of a laptop). | Laptops are also equipped with touch-type monitors (not so common). |
| Cooling system | This factor is a weakness for both types of technology. Difficulties with installing good cooling in limited space are identified. But monoblocks in this case have an advantage due to their larger body. | Laptops run hotter than all-in-one PCs due to their smaller size. |
| Price | The cost of products with identical characteristics is comparable. | Laptops can cost more (this rarely happens), but usually this difference is insignificant. |
Disadvantages of a laptop
When comparing these two types of devices, we can draw the following conclusion: in terms of performance, display size and memory capacity, laptops are not able to compete with all-in-one computers . But mobility and the ability to operate remotely from the power grid are clear advantages of the first type of computer.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any equipment, monoblocks have their advantages and disadvantages. The main advantages of purchasing such a device:
- compactness – the device can be placed anywhere;
- small size - it’s hard to believe, but all-in-one PCs take up much less space than tablets;
- no wires - using a wi-fi adapter, wireless keyboard and mouse, the only wire will be the power cable;
- widescreen screen with excellent resolution and wide viewing angle;
- good sound system included;
- touch screen that allows you to control the system with one movement;
- nice appearance of the case and design, compared to the system unit.
Despite the number of technological advantages, there are also some disadvantages:
- complete lack of possibility to upgrade individual spare parts;
- cooling problems and the risk of overheating associated with the lack of active ventilation and the closeness of equipment to each other;
- there is no possibility of connecting an additional hard drive (only through external USB ports);
- problems with self-repair or replacement of devices (troubleshooting is only possible through a service center and is almost always expensive).
If you're a tech-savvy or an avid gamer, you might not want to buy an all-in-one PC. Because replacing parts will be too expensive.
At the same time, if you are looking for an excellent compact computer that will not take up much space, will fit perfectly into any design and will allow you to solve modern problems, then this device is for you.
Advantages and disadvantages of all-in-one computers
All-in-one computers are personal computers that are all-in-one devices: a monitor, a system unit, disk drives, Wi-Fi transceivers, and Bluetooth are assembled in one case and are not connected to each other via external cables. The list of equipment connected externally is usually limited to non-built-in:
- Keyboard, wired or wireless.
- Computer mouse.
- Printer, scanner, MFP, and other peripheral devices.
Advantages of an all-in-one personal computer:
- Easy to assemble. The PC works practically out of the box: you don’t need to think about how to connect a monitor, Wi-Fi adapter, or other components to the system unit.
- Compactness. No bulky system unit - an all-in-one computer takes up minimal space on the table, it is convenient to rearrange it and move it to a new place.
- General warranty on components. If any of the components breaks down, it is enough to take the PC to one manufacturer for repair - instead of looking for the addresses of service centers separately for the monitor, motherboard, and so on.
Disadvantages of all-in-one PCs for office or home use:
- Minimal assembly variability. The device is equipped according to the same principles as a laptop: in fact, you can only replace the data drive, RAM and, possibly, the video card yourself - for the rest you will have to contact a computer technician.
- The need for repairs “in general”. If any significant component fails, you will have to take the entire all-in-one PC to the service center - therefore, you will be left without a computer for a while.
True, there are all-in-one computers in desktop format, in which you can change almost every component individually - but the price for such a computer without a system unit is much higher than for the “laptop” version.
All-in-One PC Review
Apple is considered one of the most famous creators of all-in-one PCs. Their devices have long surprised movie lovers with their compactness and speed. At a time when there were absolutely no monoblocks in the CIS countries, everyone knew them only under the name Macintosh.
Today there are quite a lot of manufacturers of such computers – all in one. But among all of them, ultra-modern models can be distinguished. Apple has many competitors, and the leader among them, as in mobile technologies, is Samsung. The prices for such devices are two times lower, and in some of their characteristics they are superior to well-promoted brands.
According to many reviews, the Samsung Series 7 AIO 27 is recognized as one of the best all-in-one PCs. The name speaks for itself. The equipment manufacturer is Samsung. The device size, one of the largest and most popular, is 27 inches.
As for aesthetics lovers, this powerful device, running Windows 8.1, containing 8 GB of DDR on board and an Intel Core i5 processor, is one of the most visually attractive.
The main differences of the model include a good screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a capacious 1 Terabyte drive. Of course, this is not the most powerful device in Samsung's range. However, it best combines good parameters that are perfect for work.
The dimensions of the device are only 638.8 x 383 x 39.6 mm. Among the additional, but important options, it is worth noting:
- two 10W stereo speakers combined with new Dolby Home Theater surround sound technology;
- built-in video adapter Radeon HD 7850;
- 2 HDMI connectors;
- presence of a DVD player;
- 2 USB 3.0 ports;
- support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections;
- built-in good Web camera.
Considering the Samsung Series 7 AIO 27, one cannot help but note the equipment:
- convenient wireless keyboard;
- remote control;
- Quite a sensitive mouse.
As for control using the touchscreen, it works perfectly. Supports up to ten simultaneous clicks and does not cause any problems. There is also support for remote gesture manipulation.
Model overview
Monoblock Asus AiO Pro V161GAT-BD031D
amd.by
1100.49 rub.
All stores (13)
Monoblock Asus AiO Pro V161GAT-BD031D
from 957.7 to 1100.49 rub.
15.6, 1366×768, Intel Celeron N4000, 1.1 GHz, RAM (GB) - 4, DDR4, hard drive (GB) - 500, Intel UHD Graphics 600, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, built-in speakers 2 speakers, DOS.
Description Where to buy (13)
Compact monoblock for home. The screen diagonal is the same as most laptops - 15.6 inches. This predetermines a fairly standard resolution for such sizes of 1366x768 pixels. With a compact size, it has a 500 GB HDD hard drive, 4 GB of RAM, which can be expanded up to 8 GB, and a laptop built-in Intel UHD Graphics 600 graphics card.
All this, together with the 1.1 GHz Intel Celeron processor, is enough to perform most office tasks. A special feature of this all-in-one is its compact dimensions - only 2.87 cm thick, 34.7 cm high, 37.5 cm wide. It will be an excellent alternative to buying a laptop or low-power office PC along with a monitor.
All-in-one Apple iMac 27 Retina 5K (MRQY2)
Introduces numerous Apple all-in-one PCs. This model of a powerful all-in-one with a good screen is perfect for professional work with graphics and video editing.
Of course: it is equipped with a powerful 6-core Intel Core i5-8500 processor, which can be overclocked to 4.1 GHz if necessary. By default, 8 GB of RAM is installed here, which can be expanded up to 32 GB if desired.
The graphics adapter is discrete and integrated, with a memory capacity of 4 GB.
A large, high-resolution screen also contributes to productive work. It is built on an IPS matrix, has a diagonal of 27 inches and a resolution of 5120x2880 pixels.
Monoblock Prestigio PIO101730AEDG
An affordable all-in-one PC (or rather a desktop tablet) for office tasks. The 17.3-inch screen is based on a budget TN matrix. Its resolution is relatively small and corresponds to the size - 1600x900 pixels. But, unlike previous models, it is touch sensitive. This makes it easier to work, for example, without a mouse.
In addition, there is only 4 GB of RAM without expandability and an economical 1.1 GB processor. The big minus is the small hard drive capacity: only 32 GB, but there is a built-in card reader.
All-in-one HP 200 G3 (3VA39EA)
notix.by
1413.5 rub.
All stores (1)
All-in-one HP 200 G3 (3VA39EA)
from 1413.5 rub.
21.5, 1920x1080, Intel Core i3-8130U, 2.2 GHz, RAM (GB) - 4, DDR4, hard drive (GB) - 1000, DVD-RW DL, Intel UHD Graphics 620, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, built-in speakers 2 speakers ,Windows 10 Pro.
Description Where to buy (1)
Introduces HP all-in-one PCs. A good mid-level monoblock. With its configuration it will be comfortable to work and play games that are not demanding on graphics. The all-in-one screen diagonal is 21.5 inches, resolution is 1920x1080 pixels. It is based on an IPS matrix, and the performance is driven by an Intel Core i3-8130U processor with a frequency of 2.2 GHz, and in Turbo mode - 3.4 GHz. The manufacturer installed 4 GB of RAM, which can be expanded up to 16 GB if desired. The advantage of this model is a capacious hard drive with a capacity of 1000 GB.
All-in-one Lenovo V410z (10QW0006RU)
The review ends with a device representing Lenovo all-in-one PCs. The computer is well suited for office tasks and some resource-intensive applications.
One of the advantages is a large 21.5-inch screen with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. High-performance Intel Core i5-7400T processor with a maximum frequency of 3 GHz. The acceptable amount of RAM is 8 GB, which can be expanded up to 16 GB. Capacious 1000 GB hard drive. The built-in Intel HD Graphics 630 is capable of handling high-definition videos and even older games at maximum settings. This monoblock is an excellent choice in terms of price-quality ratio.
You can buy a monoblock and compare prices for monoblocks at shop.by.
Criterias of choice
Since there are quite a lot of models and manufacturers of all-in-one PCs, before choosing a device for yourself, you need to decide for what purpose you are buying it: for home or office, for gaming or performing other tasks.
Screen
If you are choosing the best all-in-one PC for your home in order to watch movies in good quality, and perhaps also use it instead of a TV, pay attention to larger screens.
It is worth considering that the price of the device depends on the size of the matrix. Therefore, if funds for purchase are limited, think about what you can sacrifice: the characteristics of the device or its size.
If you are choosing an all-in-one PC for office work, you should not chase the characteristics. Far from a top-end model can handle the basic tasks of a manager’s job.
You can also save money on the screen. If you plan to work with documents, a screen size of 21.5 inches will be sufficient, while for processing graphics in design programs or making presentations, you will need a larger screen.
Touchscreen
Windows 8.1, installed on many devices, is great for touchscreen control and makes it quite comfortable. However, a large device is not very convenient to operate from an arm’s length, especially since not everyone can hold their hand suspended.
At the same time, the touchscreen is an energy-intensive technology, which means it generates heat and adds additional problems with cooling the device. In general, if it is possible to sacrifice this option, you can do it without regret.
However, the touchscreen is very convenient for visual presentations and training programs.
Performance
Whatever company you choose, whatever operating system you prefer, the main criterion for purchasing any computer is performance.
Most modern all-in-one PCs are equipped with 8GB of RAM or support its expansion up to 8.
The basis of performance, as we know, is the central and graphics processors. If you are choosing a gaming computer, pay attention to a good video card, preferably not integrated. Also, it is important to have a modern processor, for example, Intel I7.
However, with such characteristics, cooling will be a problem for you. Therefore, he will have to pay special attention to the material and type of case. It is advisable to choose a more expensive device with a metal body in order to avoid overheating.
Hardware capabilities
To save space, all-in-one PCs use mobile technologies. But not everywhere. Therefore, if you achieve maximum performance and are concerned about heat dissipation, you can try replacing a regular hard drive with an SSD device.
This solution can give a little less noise and a lower heating temperature, while increasing the speed. By lowering the internal temperature, you can install a more powerful video card.
No matter how fast your monoblock turns out to be, the hardware capabilities of a computer of the same cost will be much higher. This is explained by the use of a mobile graphics processor, which is currently being improved very quickly, reaching new speeds, but does not yet reach a full-fledged video card.
Media center or computer?
Having carefully considered all the advantages and disadvantages of multifunctional computer devices, you can choose the device according to your desire.
If you need an ergonomic, small-sized, productive device for entertainment and work, you should opt for all-in-one PCs.
Just imagine how much space all the equipment a modern person needs, such as:
- TV;
- computer and monitor;
- special table;
- media center
And all this is replaceable with one monoblock, which can be hung on the wall or placed on any shelf.
If you want to improve the characteristics of your device, like to work with raster, vector graphics and video processing, and also play new games at maximum settings, you only need a system unit with a powerful video adapter.
