A few years ago Apple introduced a really unique computer – the iMac. This machine was one of the first all-in-one machines you could buy. Today, those machines have gone through quite a few changes and now there are many computer manufactures in the game of making this sleek and stylish machines that save space.
When you are shopping for a new desktop, you must decide if you want to go traditional or all-in-one with your design. This adds yet another piece to the puzzle that you must deal with when shopping for a new computer. Determining if one of these systems is right for you can be tough, but if you look at our list below you should be able to easily sort through them and determine if they are right for you.
Look At Your Space Requirements
First, take a look at the space where your new computer will be. Do you have a small computer desk without a lot of room? If so, an all-in-one may be a better solution. If you have more than enough room for a desktop, then you could stick with a more traditional setup. Examine your workspace closely before you buy so you can determine what you need to shop for in a new desktop.
How Much Power Do You Need
While many all-in-one PCs today are very powerful and will more than handle anything you throw at them today, there still comes a point where they just can’t quite stack up to a regular desktop. Regular desktops have all the latest hardware and have plenty of room for extra hardware to expand your capabilities. If you want the most powerful machine you could possibly build, then a desktop is the way to go. If you can make some sacrifices, however, then a stylish all-in-one may be just what you need.
To Game or Not to Game
This one does go with the power option above, but I decided to separate it because of the specific requirements for gaming. Yes, you need powerful hardware such as your processor, but what you really need is a powerful graphics card. Most all-in-one machines make use of onboard graphics or include a laptop-grade graphics card in them. This means they aren’t quite as powerful. If you are a gamer and want the best video experience you can get, you are going to want to get a high-end gaming PC instead of an all-in-one.
What Do You Like?
I know this one may not sound quite as important as some of the other things to consider on this list, but let’s face it, it is! Remember, you are the one that has to use this computer every day and you have to look at it on your desk. If you don’t like the one you choose, you will not be happy with your computer, no matter how great it runs. So take into account your style and what you want in your home office.
Conclusion
In the end it is pretty easy to determine if an all-in-one will work for you or if you should go with a traditional desktop. If you are unsure, simply follow this list. When you are done, you should have a pretty idea what you should do and what will work best for you.
