The Big Picture
Windows-based all-in-one PCs once got
little respect. Today’s AlOs still lack the graphics horsepower for hard core
gaming, but the best models are far removed from the 98 pound weaklings of
yore.
Many models use laptop parts, which
minimize heat, power consumption, and the need for noisy cooling fans. If you
crave more performance, pick a model that uses desktop components (the ones
we've tested are still relatively quiet). Either way, everything the CPU, memory,
storage, and optical drive is housed in the same unit as the display, so the
computer's footprint equals that of a monitor. And since most all-in-ones ship
with a Wi-Fi adapter as well as a wireless mouse and keyboard, the only cable
they require is a power cord.
All-in-one specifications are a blend of
what you’ll find in conventional desktop systems and laptop PCs. The thinnest
and most compact systems are almost completely built around the same
power-efficient technology as laptops. Below is our checklist of what to look
for.
Lenovo’s
IdeaCentre A720 can tilt down to become fully horizontal for board games or
shared presentations
The Specs Explained
Display:
Unlike with traditional desktop PCs, what you see is what you get with an
all-in-one for the life of the PC. You'll never be able to upgrade without
chucking the entire machine, so choose accordingly. In addition to multi-touch
capabilities (to support Windows 8), you should consider three other key
factors: display technology, display resolution, and display size. LCD panels
that employ IPS (in-plane switching) or PLS (plane line switching) technology
are vastly superior to those based on TN (twisted nematic) technology. IPS and
PLS displays are more expensive, and you might find them only in larger
all-in-ones, but they are worth every cent.
The all-in-one you buy should deliver
graphics resolution of at least 1920 by 1080 pixels. Movies, digital photos,
websites, and productivity apps will look great at this resolution on a 23- or
24-inch display. Move up to a 27-inch model, however, and you’ll be able to
make out the individual pixels because they’ll be spaced farther apart to fill
the larger area. A few high-end AIO models, such as Dell's XPS One, provide
higher resolution 2560 by 1440 pixels on their 27-inch displays.
Dell's
XPS One, provide higher resolution 2560 by 1440 pixels on their 27-inch
displays.
CPU: Desktop
or mobile? Choose an AIO with a desktop processor if you intend to perform
in-depth photo editing, manipulate complex spreadsheets, or engage in other
computing intensive tasks. If your work is less demanding, an AIO built on a
mobile CPU will be thinner and quieter, and will consume less power. Faster CPU
clock speeds buy incremental performance within a particular class, but your
desktop-versus-mobile decision affects performance the most.
Memory: Look
for systems with at least 6GB to 8GB of memory. Most AlOs offer relatively
straightforward memory expansion, so you can add more if you need it; but you
might discover that a limited number of memory slots will force you to replace
existing memory modules with higher-capacity ones, rather than add to existing
DRAM.
Graphics:
Buy an AIO with discrete graphics if you plan on any serious gaming; models
with integrated graphics hardware won't be up to the task. Note, however, that
the limited airflow in an AIO design typically restricts the manufacturer to
using a mobile graphics processing unit. Such GPUs can run 3D games, but you
will need to dial down the resolution and detail levels to achieve acceptable
frame rates.
Storage:
Most AlOs use mobile hard drives, which trade capacity and performance for a
smaller size and cooler operating temperatures compared to desktop models.
You’ll want at least 1TB of storage. We've seen only a few AIO PCs outfitted
with solid-state drives, but some higher-end models use small SSDs as a
persistent cache for higher-capacity mechanical drives.
Optical drives: Entry-level AlOs come with DVD burners/players. Upscale models
should come with at least a Blu-ray player (if not a Blu-ray burner).
Connectivity: Only the most basic AIO won't have an integrated Wi-Fi adapter. If
the machine you choose lacks one, you can add it by plugging in an aftermarket
USB adapter. Bluetooth support is convenient for connecting Bluetooth printers,
tablets, and smartphones.
I/O ports:
The AIO you select should have at least two USB 3.0 ports, but the more the
better (either USB 2.0 or USB 3.0). A card reader (SD, Memory Stick, and the
like) is another welcome feature.
HDMI: An
HDMI input lets you connect a gaming console, a cable or satellite set top box,
a camcorder, or another digital source to your AIO to take advantage of the
computer’s display. Models that allow you to use the display without turning on
the computer will consume less power. HDMI-out is a less common feature on
AlOs, but you could use it to drive a second display.
TV tuner: An
on-board TV tuner lets you watch over-the-air broadcasts on the AlO’s display.
If you subscribe to cable or satellite TV, however, you’ll be much happier
plugging a set-top box into the machine's HDMI input.
Vizio’s
CA27-A1 is a great entry to the affordable AIO market.
Buying Tips
Avoid last year's models: Although you can
score a big discount on an older model, buying an outdated AIO is problematic.
It probably won't have Windows 8 or a multi-touch display (should you decide to
upgrade to Windows 8 later).
Remember that you can’t upgrade: Upgrading a desktop PC is easy, particularly if you want to improve
its graphics, storage, display, or optical drive. Upgrading an all-in-one is at
least as difficult as upgrading a laptop is. The key is to buy as much computer
as you can afford, so that you won’t outgrow it too quickly.
Go big:
You’ll never regret buying a display that's too big unless you lack the room to
accommodate it. If you plan to put the AIO in a computer hutch, measure the
space before you bring it home.
Trust, but verify: As with any PC purchase, unpack and set up your AIO immediately.
Make sure you have all its accessories, and that the entire system is working
as it should.
