An all-in-one computer puts the processor, memory, storage, and speakers behind the screen, so one cable runs to the wall, and the desk stays clear. It fits homes, shared spaces, and offices where tidiness matters more than raw power or upgrades.
This guide covers the pros and cons, the specs worth checking, and who should buy one.
Pros of an All-in-One
The biggest advantage is simplicity. You get a screen, speakers, a webcam, and often a keyboard and mouse in one box, with minimal cable clutter and quick setup.
Many all-in-ones also have large screens, often 24 or 27 inches, and some offer touchscreens that are handy for families and shared use. They also look better in a living area or reception desk than a tower and monitor.
Cons of an All-in-One
The trade-offs are less power for the price, limited upgrades, and difficult repairs. Components are packed into a thin case, so cooling is limited, and performance often lags a desktop tower at the same cost.
If the screen fails, you may have to replace or repair the whole computer. Memory and storage are sometimes replaceable and sometimes not, so check the model before you buy.
Our guide to why the desktop PC is not dead covers the tower alternative.
Processor and Memory
For browsing, email, documents, and streaming, an entry-level processor such as an Intel N100-class chip or an AMD Ryzen 3 or 5 handles everyday work.
Choose a stronger Ryzen 5 or 7, or an Intel Core i5 or i7-class chip, if you run many apps, edit photos, or work with spreadsheets all day.
Aim for 16 GB of RAM if you can afford it, since 8 GB gets tight on Windows 11. Our guide on how much RAM you actually need explains why.
Products Worth Considering
【Curved Display for Immersion】 Step into the world of our All-in-One Desktop PC's 23.8" curved display. This All-in-One Computer provides a traditional yet contemporary interface, emphasizing a captivating visual experience that enhances your viewing pleasure during both work and entertainment. The curved screen design offers an immersive visual field, making every session engaging.
Powerful Intel N100 Processor & Integrated Graphics: Experience smooth performance for everyday computing with the Intel N100 processor (4 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz turbo) and integrated Intel UHD Graphics. Perfect for multitasking, web browsing, document editing, video streaming, and light productivity tasks. The efficient processor delivers reliable performance while maintaining low power consumption, making it ideal for home offices, students, and small businesses.
i5 CPU + 16GB RAM: High-Performance Multitasking - Featuring i5 CPU processor (3.3GHz) and 16GB dual-channel RAM, this all in one desktop handles heavy multitasking, complex document processing, and light creative work effortlessly. Ideal for professionals, content creators, and power users seeking robust performance
Storage
Choose a real solid-state drive, preferably NVMe, of at least 256 GB, and 512 GB if you keep files locally.
Some budget models use slower eMMC or UFS storage, which is much slower than a proper SSD and hard to expand later. See SSD vs HDD for why this matters.
Products Worth Considering
HIGH SPEED TRANSMISSION - Fikwot FN501 Pro 512GB M.2 SSD adopts M.2 PCIe Gen3 x4 technology and is compatible with NVMe1.3 protocol. By configuring dynamic SLC cache technology to accelerate SSD read and write performance, the maximum read speed is up to 3,500MB/s, and the maximum write speed is up to 2,800MB/s, effectively maintaining the high-speed operation and stability of SSD.
SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE: Fanxiang S500 Pro M.2 SSD adds graphite heat dissipation stickers to provide effective heat dissipation control for internal ssd, improve its performance and service life, up to 320TBW (TeraBytes Written)
Screen, Camera and Sound
Look for at least Full HD resolution on an IPS panel, with an anti-glare finish if the room is bright. A touchscreen is useful for families but not necessary.
A 720p or better webcam with a privacy shutter and decent microphones helps with video calls. Built-in speakers work fine for casual use, but they can’t replace good external speakers.
Products Worth Considering
15 6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) portable anti-glare IPS display with an ultra-slim and thin design for on-the-go client meetings
High-Performance Display: Immerse yourself in a 27" IPS Full HD Resolution (1920 x 1080) at 100 Hz LED-backlit LCD monitor. Featuring three-sided slim bezels, this monitor not only provides an improved viewable screen-to-body ratio but also adds a sleek touch to your workspace, freeing up valuable desk space.
An improved viewing experience: Experience a high 100Hz refresh rate across your work with a TÜV Rheinland 3-star* certified viewing experience coupled with ComfortView Plus.
Ports and Connectivity
Look for both USB-C and USB-A ports, wired Ethernet for a stable connection, and Wi-Fi 6 or newer. Some all-in-ones can also work as a monitor through an HDMI input, but this is uncommon, so confirm it if you need it.
Many models either mount to a VESA bracket or come on a fixed stand, so check how the stand adjusts for height and tilt.
Products Worth Considering
The Anker Advantage: Join the 65 million+ powered by our leading technology.
The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by our leading technology.
12-in-1 USB-C Docking Station – Transform your laptop’s single USB-C port into a full workstation with Dual 4K HDMI, 100W PD charging, Gigabit Ethernet, 4 USB-A (2×3.0, 2×2.0), 2 USB-C 3.0, and SD/TF card reader – all the essential ports you need for home office, gaming, and creative workflows
Gaming and Creative Work
Most all-in-ones use integrated graphics and are not meant for demanding games or video editing. They can run light games and everyday creative work.
If you need graphics power, a gaming desktop is a better value; see our guide to choosing a gaming desktop.
Products Worth Considering
13-in-1 Dual Monitor Stand Riser: Vaydeer multifunctional stand featuring a dual monitor riser, wireless charging pad, 8 USB ports (4 fast charging, 4 data transfer), LED light strip, and storage drawers. Made from durable metal, it supports up to 50kg, helping you stay organized while reducing eye and neck strain for a more efficient workspace，1000mm (L) x 283mm (W) x 140mm (H)
13-in-1 Dual Monitor Stand Riser: Vaydeer multifunctional stand featuring a dual monitor riser, wireless charging pad, 8 USB ports (4 fast charging, 4 data transfer), LED light strip, and storage drawers. Made from durable metal, it supports up to 50kg, helping you stay organized while reducing eye and neck strain for a more efficient workspace，1000mm (L) x 283mm (W) x 140mm (H).
Who Should Buy an All-in-One
An all-in-one suits families, home offices, reception desks, and anyone who wants a clean, simple setup and uses the computer mainly for everyday tasks.
If you want to upgrade over time, want the most performance for your money, or need a specific monitor, choose a tower or mini PC instead.
For a smaller alternative that still lets you pick your own screen, read our guide to mini PCs. If you are comparing desktops and laptops overall, see desktop vs laptop computers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all-in-one computers good for home use?
Yes. They are simple to set up, save space, and handle browsing, streaming, schoolwork, and office tasks well.
Can you upgrade an all-in-one computer?
Sometimes. Some models let you replace the RAM or storage, but many make upgrades difficult or impossible. You can’t change the processor or the screen on any of them. Check your model first.
Are all-in-ones good for gaming?
Only for light games. Most use integrated graphics, so demanding games need a desktop with a dedicated graphics card.
How much RAM and storage should an all-in-one have?
16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD is a comfortable target. 8 GB of RAM and a 256 GB SSD can work for light use.
Can an all-in-one be used as a monitor?
Only some models have an HDMI input that lets them act as a display. Most don’t, so check the specifications if you want this.
