All in one PCs - Buy them or not?

You may not expect an honest answer from a System Integrator like me for the above Question. But let me try  my hand in giving you an unbiased buying guide.

All-in-one PCs.

       

Apple introduced the concept of All-in-one PCs where the computer monitor is build directly to the computer there-by making the PC a clutter-free, elegant and easy to use device. Initial designs were based on a CRT monitor making them bulky. However they looked neat and had very less cable around them. When LCD Monitors and wireless input devices like Keyboards and Mice came around, they looked Chic.

         

But All-in-ones were synonymous to Apple's Mac than the PCs. The cult fan base of Apple adopted to the All-in-one design than the PC users did. PCs were looked upon as more flexible and cheap devices than the Apple's iMac by its users. The need for flexibility was a key factor for PCs as you can build it with a set of hardware and later you can upgrade it to a different configuration there is need and money. It also generated jobs in the market as you need Engineers like me to advise and upgrade the PCs. This further helped the penetration of the PCs as the service industry preferred the flexible PCs than the sleeker all-in-ones.

Now since the hardware prices have dropped and users look to productivity than flexibility (smartphones are everywhere), PC manufacturers like HP, Dell, Sony etc., are introducing products for this segment of the market. Let us see what are the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Products in general so that you will know whether to go for it when you think of buying one.

Advantages

1. Sleek. - They don't occupy much space
2. Easy to setup. - You don't need someone to connect the Components.
3. They have everything that makes you productive, connect with people, entertain, etc., - Built-in Webcam, Wi-fi, card readers, Speakers, etc., 
4. Clutter free. - Less wires around them.

Disadvantages

1. Less flexible - A fried up Motherboard(mobo) can leave your PC unusable.
2. Proprietary design - The mobo, Optical drives, Extension cards, LCDs cannot be replaced with component from other vendors.
3. Services can be costly.
4. Up-gradations are impossible. 
5. Costlier than the Desktops.

Here are some links for Various Products available in the Market 

HP - HP's All-in-one and Touchsmart

Dell - Dell Inspiron One,   Dell Vostro

Lenovo - Lenovo IdeaCentre,   Lenovo Value line C series

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