Expensive repairs, scarce parts among reasons to avoid all-in-one PCs

Ken Colburn | Special for The Republic

Question: I’ve been thinking about buying an all-in-one Windows computer; what should I know?

Answer: The success of Apple’s iMac computers that incorporate all of the computer processing components inside the display led to a large number of Windows-based copycats.

While this form factor is attractive, saves space on your desk and reduces the number of wires necessary to make things work, there are several downsides that you must consider.

The very thing that makes these devices attractive is also what makes them a bad idea. In order to get everything to fit inside these sleek displays, the manufacturers typically have to use less powerful processors and graphics chips because of the heat they generate.

Heat dissipation is a major issue with any computer, but more so when there is little room for airflow.

All-in-ones tend to use the lower-powered chips used in laptops, which are slower than their desktop equivalents. You’ll end up with what’s essentially an oversize laptop that isn’t nearly as portable and often not as powerful.

Anyone into gaming should absolutely steer clear of any type of all-in-one computer, as the graphics chipsets tend to be very low-end.

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Expensive repairs

The single biggest reason to avoid this type of computer is the much higher expense should you have to replace any of the major components.

In order to get everything to fit inside the small enclosures, the manufacturers have to create proprietary components. This means that when it comes time to repair the computer, there’s only one source for the replacement parts, which means much higher prices versus standard components.

As an example, if something happens to your display, you’re most likely looking at a replacement cost that is so close to a new computer, it won’t be cost-effective. With a standard computer that has a separate display, there are endless options for less than $100 if you need to replace the display.

Limited upgrades

Very little in all-in-one PCs can be upgraded — typically only the RAM and sometimes the hard drive — which means as soon as any component isn’t powerful enough for your needs, you’ll have to buy a whole new computer.

More expensive

With all of the listed limitations and downsides, the icing on the cake is that this type of computer is also more expensive than the alternatives.

Not only will you pay a substantial premium for the space savings, but you’ll have less capacity, speed and storage.

Small alternatives to all-in-one computers

As stated earlier, an obvious alternative is a laptop computer, but for those who desire a much larger display, there’s a less obvious option.

The folks at Intel created a really popular computer that fits in your hand called the NUC (Next Unit of Computing). It was originally designed as a processing package for digital signage, but it quickly grew popular with hobbyists and eventually the average user.

At roughly 4.5 inches square and 1.5 inches tall, it may not look like much, but it’s a fully functional computer with fewer limitations and easily fits under your monitor. The cost of upgrading or repairing every part of the system is much more cost-effective than any all-in-one computer.

Ken Colburn is founder and CEO of Data Doctors Computer Services, datadoctors.com. Ask any tech question at facebook.com/DataDoctors or on Twitter @TheDataDoc.