Buying Advice
All-in-One vs Desktop PC: Which Should You Buy?
An all-in-one computer is a practical choice when you want an integrated screen and computer in one tidy unit. A separate desktop PC makes sense when you want more freedom to choose your monitor, replace individual parts or change your setup later.
Both can suit home computing, study and office work. The right choice depends on how you use your computer, the equipment you already own and how much flexibility you want.
For this comparison, “desktop PC” means a separate computer connected to an external monitor. An all-in-one is also a type of desktop computer, but its main components are built into the display housing.
The Short Version
- Choose an all-in-one: You want a tidy setup, like the included screen and do not need extensive internal expansion.
- Choose a separate desktop: You want to select your own monitor, reuse an existing screen or replace the computer and display independently.
- Consider a mini PC: You want a compact setup while keeping the computer separate from the monitor.
Neither format is automatically faster. Compare the actual processor, RAM, storage and graphics hardware.
What Is an All-in-One Computer?
An all-in-one, often shortened to AIO, combines the computer and display in one unit. Instead of having a separate computer case beside or beneath the desk, the main hardware sits inside the screen housing.
You still need a keyboard and mouse or other suitable input devices. These may be included or sold separately, so check the listing.
An all-in-one also needs power. Depending on the model, it may use an external power adapter or a mains cable connected directly to the unit.
Why Choose an All-in-One?
A Tidy Desk Setup
With the computer built into the display, there is no separate case to find space for. You also avoid the external video cable normally needed between a desktop and its monitor.
This can make an all-in-one appealing for home offices, reception counters, study areas and shared household spaces.
There will still be cables for power and any wired accessories, but the overall setup can be straightforward.
The Screen Is Already Part of the Package
If you are starting from scratch, an all-in-one lets you choose the computer and its main display together.
Check the screen size, resolution, condition and adjustment options before buying. You will use that screen every day, so it deserves as much attention as the processor or storage.
Practical for Everyday Computing
A suitably specified all-in-one can handle email, documents, browsing, online learning, video calls and many office applications.
Some models include a webcam, microphone and speakers, which can simplify your setup further. Features vary, so confirm what is fitted rather than assuming every all-in-one includes them.
What Are the Trade-Offs with an All-in-One?
You Are Choosing the Computer and Screen Together
If you later want a larger display or a different screen format, you cannot simply swap the built-in panel as you would replace a separate monitor.
You may be able to add an external screen, but that depends on the computer’s video outputs and display support.
Likewise, replacing the computer means replacing the integrated unit, even if its screen still suits you.
Repairs Can Be More Involved
Accessing components inside an all-in-one can require more disassembly than opening a conventional business desktop.
If the built-in screen develops a fault, the computer may need servicing as a complete unit. With separate equipment, you can often connect another monitor while the original screen is repaired or replaced.
Repair options and costs depend on the model, fault and availability of parts.
Upgrades Are Model-Dependent
Some all-in-ones allow RAM and storage upgrades. Others have limited access, fewer slots or components that cannot easily be changed.
Do not buy one assuming you can add a conventional desktop graphics card later. If you have an upgrade in mind, check the exact model first.
Why Choose a Separate Desktop PC?
Choose the Monitor That Suits You
A separate desktop lets you choose your screen independently. You might prefer a compact display, a larger screen for spreadsheets or two monitors for multitasking.
You can also change the monitor later without replacing the computer, provided the connections and display support are suitable.
Explore our Monitor Buying Guides & Advice for help choosing a screen.
Reuse Equipment You Already Own
If your existing monitor, keyboard and mouse still work well, you may only need to replace the computer.
That can make a separate desktop a practical purchase. Check the monitor connections and any adapters you need before ordering.
Replace Components Independently
Keeping the screen and computer separate gives you more flexibility when either needs replacing.
You can keep a good monitor through several computer changes, or improve your screen while continuing to use a computer that still meets your needs.
Choose from Different Case Sizes
Separate desktops range from tiny PCs to small form factor models and larger towers.
A mini PC can provide a compact alternative to an all-in-one. With suitable mounting hardware, some can fit behind a compatible monitor while remaining a separate device.
Read our Mini PC vs Small Form Factor vs Tower guide to compare the options.
What Are the Trade-Offs with a Separate Desktop?
More Equipment to Position
You need space for the computer as well as the screen. A mini PC may take up very little room, while a tower needs more careful placement.
Allow space for ventilation, cables and access to the ports you use regularly.
Check the Complete Setup Cost
A standalone desktop price may not include a monitor, keyboard, mouse, webcam, speakers or display cable.
If you need everything, compare the total cost of the complete setup against an all-in-one with similar specifications and screen quality.
If you already own suitable accessories, those separate purchases may not be necessary.
Is an All-in-One Slower Than a Desktop?
Not automatically. The format does not tell you enough to judge performance.
A newer all-in-one can be faster than an older separate desktop. Equally, a tower with more powerful hardware may be better suited to demanding work than an everyday all-in-one.
Compare the exact processor model and generation, RAM, SSD and graphics capability. For sustained demanding workloads, cooling and power limits also matter.
For everyday use, a computer with suitable specifications is more important than whether its components sit behind the screen or inside a separate case.
Can You Add a Second Monitor to an All-in-One?
Many all-in-ones support an external monitor, but not every model does. Check for a suitable video output and confirm the supported resolution.
Pay attention to whether a port is an input or an output. An HDMI input receives a picture from another device; an HDMI output sends a picture to another screen.
A port’s appearance alone may not tell you its purpose. Check the model specifications or ask before buying.
Can You Use an All-in-One as a Monitor?
Only if the model specifically supports receiving video from another computer through a suitable input or supported display mode.
Many all-in-ones cannot be used as ordinary standalone monitors. Do not assume you can keep using the screen with another computer once the built-in computer is no longer suitable.
Are All-in-One Computers Touchscreen?
Some are, but many are not. An all-in-one describes how the computer is built, rather than whether the screen responds to touch.
If touch is important to you, make sure it is explicitly listed. For most keyboard-and-mouse office work, a non-touch display can be perfectly suitable.
Which Setup Suits Your Situation?
For a Tidy Home Computer
An all-in-one is worth considering if you like its screen and want an integrated setup for everyday use. Check whether the webcam, speakers, keyboard and mouse you need are included.
For Replacing an Old Computer
A separate desktop may be the simplest choice if you already have a good monitor and accessories. Confirm compatibility so you can keep using the equipment that still suits you.
For Business and Multiple Screens
Either format can work. A separate desktop often provides more freedom to choose and position screens, while an all-in-one can suit reception areas or individual workstations.
Check the exact display support, network connectivity and application requirements.
For Future Upgrades
A suitable separate desktop generally gives you more options, particularly if you choose a model with the internal space and compatible components you need.
However, do not pay extra for expansion potential you are unlikely to use. Buying a computer that already meets your requirements is often the more practical approach.
Before You Buy, Check These Details
- Screen: Is the size, resolution and condition suitable?
- Specifications: Will the processor, RAM and storage handle your applications?
- Operating system: Does the computer officially support the operating system you intend to use?
- Connectivity: Are the required Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB and network connections included?
- Extra displays: Does it have the correct video outputs and display support?
- Comfort: Does the stand provide the adjustment you need?
- Accessories: What comes with it, and what needs to be purchased separately?
- Support: Are the warranty and condition information clearly explained?
Choose the Setup That Works for You
An all-in-one can make an attractive, practical everyday computer. A separate desktop offers flexibility over your display, placement and future changes.
At NZ Laptop Wholesale, we stock professionally refurbished desktops and all-in-one computers, depending on availability. Our computers are tested, cleaned and backed by our warranty, with local support and NZ-wide courier delivery.
Tell us what you use your computer for, what equipment you already have and how you would like your desk to work. We can help you narrow down the options.
Need more buying advice? Explore our Desktop Buying Guides & Advice for help comparing desktop sizes, choosing specifications and checking your setup.
