An all-in-one computer (also called an AIO or all-in-one PC) is a type of
personal computer that integrates the computer components, such as the
CPU,
monitor, and
speakers, into a single unit. It occupies a smaller footprint than a
desktop computer with a
tower form factor, and also uses fewer cables.[1][2][3]
Advantages and disadvantages
Some advantages of the all-in-one computer compared to other form factors include being easier to set up, a reduced physical footprint, ease of transportation, and the option to interface with the computer via
touchscreen (a now-common fixture on all-in-ones).[4][5] Some disadvantages include generally being more expensive than desktop computers, a lack of customizability—most of the internal hardware such as the
RAM and the
SSD, especially in post-late-2010s machines, is
soldered onto the system board—a lack of upgrade paths for the
CPU, RAM, and
technology of the display, and the difficulty of repair.[6][7][8] The design causes it to overheat, it forces all of the components to be close together and causes minimal airflow.[9] Having more powerful processors and graphic cards causes overheating which leads to inefficiencies.[10]
Since the early 2000s, some all-in-one desktops, such as the
iMac G4, have used
laptop components in order to reduce the size of the system case.[15] Like most laptops, some all-in-one desktop computers are characterized by an inability to customize or upgrade internal components, as the systems' cases do not provide convenient access to upgradable components, and faults in certain aspects of the hardware may require the entire computer to be replaced, regardless of the health of its remaining components.[16] There have been exceptions to this; the monitor portion of
HP's Z1 workstation can be angled flat, and opened like a
vehicle hood for access to internal hardware.[17]