If you’re looking for a stylish, space-saving desktop computer, an all-in-one is a great option. All-in-one PCs integrate the internal components, including the processor, memory, storage, and graphics, behind the monitor for a unified, clutter-free design. With sleek styling that saves room on your desk, all-in-one desktops are ideal for home, office, and educational settings.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll recommend the top 5 all-in-one desktops for a variety of needs and budgets. We’ll also cover everything you need to know about how to pick the right all-in-one PC for your requirements. Read on for reviews of the best all-in-one computers along with a detailed buying guide and FAQ to answer common questions about these space-saving yet powerful PCs.
Introduction
All-in-one desktop computers provide everything you need in one elegant package: a high-definition display, full computer internals, speakers, webcam, and more. With a unified design that eliminates boxy towers and wires, all-in-ones are popular choices for minimizing clutter and maximizing desk space.
These stylish computers integrate all the key components behind the monitor. This delivers a streamlined look without sacrificing performance. All-in-ones offer a range of screen sizes to fit different needs, from compact 21-inch models up to expansive 34-inch screens. Touchscreen options are also widely available.
While laptops are more portable, all-in-one desktops deliver bigger, brighter displays along with the horsepower for work, creative projects, entertainment, and more. Models span from affordable choices for general use to high-end powerhouses built for gaming and graphic design.
In this guide, we focus on standout all-in-one desktop PCs suitable for home and office. We highlight five top options across a spectrum of price points and specifications. Keep reading for reviews of the best all-in-one computers!
Top 5 All-In-One Desktop Computers
1. Dell Inspiron 24 3000 – Best Budget All-In-One Desktop

Dell’s Inspiron 24 3000 is an affordable all-in-one that covers the basics for general home and student use. It boasts a 24-inch 1920 x 1080 Full HD screen, making an excellent compromise between size and price.
Key specs of the Inspiron 24 3000 include:
- Intel Celeron processor (dual-core, up to 2.8 GHz)
- 4GB memory
- 128GB SSD storage
- Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
- 1080p webcam, stereo speakers
This budget-friendly system handles web browsing, video streaming, office work, school assignments, social media, and light photo editing smoothly. The clean, modern design looks great in compact spaces. While not a powerhouse, the Inspiron 24 3000 gets the job done for basic everyday computing.
2. HP Envy 34-inch All-In-One – Best For Creative Work

Creative professionals will thrive with the stellar 34-inch HP Envy All-In-One desktop computer. This high-end system boasts specifications to handle graphic design, video editing, animation, photography, and more.
Standout features of the Envy 34-inch AIO include:
- 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor (8-core, up to 4.7 GHz)
- 16GB DDR4 RAM (upgradable to 32GB)
- 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD + 2TB HDD
- Discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics (10GB GDDR6)
- Massive 34-inch 5K (5120 x 2160) display
- Pop-up webcam, quad speakers, wireless keyboard and mouse
With its 11th Gen Core i7 CPU, dedicated RTX 3080 graphics, huge ultra HD screen, and ample memory, this is a productivity powerhouse for creative work, video editing, programming, and beyond. The sleek design saves space without sacrificing performance.
3. Apple iMac 24-inch – Best All-In-One For Apple Users

Apple’s impeccably designed 24-inch iMac is a top choice for MacOS fans. This elegant all-in-one desktop comes loaded with Apple’s speedy M1 chip, delivering excellent performance for the price.
Highlights of the 24-inch iMac include:
- Apple M1 chip (8-core CPU, up to 3.5 GHz)
- 8GB or 16GB unified memory
- 256GB to 2TB SSD storage options
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display (4480 x 2520 resolution)
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera, studio-quality mics, six-speaker sound system
- Extensive port selection: USB-C, USB 3, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, HDMI
Available in fun colors, the thin 11.5 mm profile minimizes desk space requirements. MacOS fans will love the Apple-designed hardware and software integration. With speedy performance and a stunning display, the 24-inch iMac handles daily tasks and creative projects with ease.
4. Microsoft Surface Studio 2 – Best for Creative Touch Input

Microsoft’s Surface Studio 2 packs inventive style and touchscreen versatility. The 28-inch adjustable display lets you sketch, draw, edit photos, and more with natural fingertip input.
Key features include:
- Intel Core i7-7820HQ processor (quad-core, up to 4.1 GHz)
- 32GB DDR4 RAM (upgradeable to 64GB)
- 1TB SSD storage (2TB option available)
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 graphics (8GB GDDR5)
- 28-inch adjustable touch display (4,500 x 3,000 resolution)
- Integrated 5MP/1080p camera with Windows Hello face-authentication
This high-end touch-friendly AIO brings creativity to life with pen and touch capabilities. Tilt the screen from upright to a drafting table-like 20 degree angle. Specs provide power for intensive design apps, video editing, 3D modeling, and high-res gaming.
5. ASUS Zen AiO A5400 – Best Mid-Range Option

For a balance of affordability and performance, consider the ASUS Zen AiO A5400. This mid-range all-in-one desktop offers great bang for the buck.
Key specifications include:
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700U (8-core/16-thread, up to 4.3 GHz)
- 16GB DDR4 3200 MHz RAM
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 (4GB GDDR6)
- 23.8-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS touch display
- Built-in 5MP camera with IR for facial recognition
Equipped with AMD’s speedy Ryzen 7 processor, RTX 3050 discrete graphics, and a fast SSD alongside ample HDD storage, the Zen AiO handles everyday tasks and gaming smoothly. The 23.8-inch touchscreen enables intuitive operation. Altogether, this ASUS all-in-one desktop hits a sweet spot for family use.
How to Choose the Right All-In-One Desktop Computer

With an array of all-in-one desktops available, it takes some consideration to select the right one for your needs and budget. Follow this buying guide when picking an AIO PC:
Consider Performance Needs
First, think about how you plan to use your all-in-one. This determines what level of performance you need in areas like:
- Processor: Core count (dual vs quad vs hexa core), base clocks and turbo boost speeds. AMD Ryzen and Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9 are top options.
- RAM: 8GB sufficient for basic use, but 16GB or more ideal for complex workloads.
- Storage: Balancing speed and capacity. SSD offers faster boot and load times, while HDD provides more storage space.
- Graphics: Integrated or dedicated graphics. Discrete GPUs like NVIDIA RTX/GTX and AMD Radeon RX boost multimedia performance.
If using your AIO for everyday web browsing, office work, and media, integrated graphics and 8GB RAM work fine. Demanding creative projects require higher specs.
Determine Required Specifications
Once you’ve identified performance needs, pin down technical specs. Consider:
- Screen size: Smaller 21-27 inch displays save desk space, while larger models beyond 30 inches are immersive for creative work.
- Display resolution: 1080p sufficient for most, but higher 4K/5K resolutions boost clarity. Touchscreens add interactivity.
- Storage: Faster SSDs for system/apps, while HDDs offer abundant multimedia storage.
- Memory: 8GB baseline, expanding to 16GB or 32GB for advanced users.
- Ports/connectivity: USB, USB-C, Thunderbolt, HDMI, Ethernet, SD card slots. Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- Webcam resolution if video-conferencing. Microphone quality for calls/recordings.
- Audio: Integrated stereo speakers or higher-end sound system. Headphone jack.
Document your must-have specifications so you can compare all-in-one models accordingly. Prioritize needs that are dealbreakers versus nice-to-haves.
Decide on Key Features
Beyond core specs, determine which extra features matter most for your use:
- Touchscreen for finger-based interaction
- Adjustable stand to tilt the display
- Stylus support for precise touch input
- Software suite with useful apps for work and creativity
- Gaming-centric features like high refresh displays and robust cooling
Also make note of desirable ports like HDMI-in forconnecting external devices. The right features help tailor the all-in-one to your workflow.
Pick Preferred Display Size and Resolution
One of the biggest considerations is display size and resolution. Common AIO options include:
- 21.5 to 24 inches with 1080p Full HD resolution—compact footprint
- 27 inches with QHD (2560 x 1440 resolution)—expanded screen real estate
- 4K and 5K ultra HD resolutions on larger displays beyond 30 inches—enhanced clarity
In general, opt for the largest display that fits your desk space. Higher resolutions provide more on-screen workspace and crisper visuals.
Consider Expandability Options
Some all-in-one PCs allow users to access internal components for upgrades like:
- Adding more RAM
- Installing a larger/faster SSD
- Swapping the hard drive
Upgradability extends the lifespan of your investment. But many AIO designs have limited expandability, so research options before purchase.
Determine Connectivity Needs
Carefully evaluate connectivity:
- Wired Ethernet for fast, reliable networks
- WiFi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless connectivity
- USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C for peripherals and external storage
- HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt for displays and TVs
- SD card reader for transferring photos/video
Having the right ports, wireless specs, and card readers ensures your peripherals integrate seamlessly.
Decide on an Operating System
Popular options include:
- Windows 10 Home or Pro—most common choice with extensive software compatibility
- macOS for Apple users who prefer MacOS ecosystem integration
- Chrome OS for cloud-based use with Android app support
- Linux distributions like Ubuntu for advanced users
Consider software ecosystem preferences along with OS familiarity. Dual-boot setups are also an option.
Consider Extra Software and Programs Needed
Many all-in-ones come with productivity suites like:
- Microsoft 365 Apps
- Apple iWork
- Corel Office Suite
However, you may need additional programs for specialized work like:
- Adobe Creative Cloud for design and media
- Video editing software such as DaVinci Resolve
- 3D modeling/CAD software e.g. AutoCAD, Blender
- Coding tools such as Visual Studio
Installing extra software helps get your all-in-one ready for diverse workloads beyond the out-of-box experience.
Set a Budget and Compare Options in that Price Range
All-in-one desktops span a wide range from around $300 on the low end to $4,000+ for top-tier creative workstations. Set a realistic budget, then thoroughly compare models in your target price bracket.
Aim for the best specs and features you can afford. Compromise on size or secondary aspects if needed to get the right processing power, graphics, display quality, and memory within budget.
Read Reviews from Trusted Tech Sites
Experienced reviewers provide in-depth insight on factors like real-world performance, design and build quality, noise levels, and overall value.
Consult reviews from sites like PCWorld, CNET, PCMag, Wired, TechRadar, Digital Trends, and Tom’s Hardware when researching models. Videos also give you a detailed look.
Weigh Pros and Cons of Top Choices
Once you’ve narrowed down a few stellar options, make a list of pros and cons for each based on your needs.
Compare critical factors like processing performance, display resolution, graphics capabilities, available ports, and special features. This helps finalize the best choice for your requirements.
Select the All-In-One Desktop That Best Fits Needs and Budget
With research complete, pick the all-in-one desktop that checks off the most boxes for performance, design, features, and price.
Allow some room in your budget for accessories like an extended warranty, external storage, a printer, and peripherals. Then get ready to enjoy your streamlined new AIO!
Frequently Asked Questions About All-In-One Desktop Computers

What are the benefits of an all-in-one desktop computer?
Compared to a traditional desktop tower setup, all-in-one computers provide:
- A unified, space-saving design with a slim, stylish profile that minimizes clutter
- A built-in high-resolution display without needing a separate monitor
- Simplified cable management since critical components reside behind the screen
- Easy portability around the home since everything is integrated
- Powerful performance for work, school, entertainment, and more
- A multitasking hub for the home or office environment
What kinds of tasks are all-in-one desktops best suited for?
All-in-one PCs work extremely well for:
- Browsing the web
- Streaming movies, TV shows, and online videos
- Video-conferencing over Zoom, Skype, etc.
- Running office productivity suites like Microsoft 365
- Social media, email, and general home computing
- Photo management and light image/video editing
- Casual gaming and multimedia
- Education and student work
Higher-end models also provide ample power for intensive creative work, AAA gaming, programming, graphic design, engineering software, video production, 3D modeling, and more.
How does the performance compare to traditional desktop towers?
In general, standalone desktop towers allow for greater expandability with more room for beefier components like high-end graphics cards and elaborate cooling systems. This gives traditional towers an edge for extreme performance.
However, all-in-one desktops still integrate powerful processors and graphics that suit the vast majority of home users. Compact form factors utilize carefully engineered cooling solutions. With mid-range to high specs, AIOs easily match traditional desktops for everyday tasks while saving space.
What size display is optimal for an all-in-one?
Display preferences vary, but consider a few factors:
- Desktop space—smaller 21.5-24 inch sizes work well for compact desks, while 27 inches or more are better for expansive work areas
- Viewing distance—sitting further away benefits from larger screens like 34 inches
- Workloads—designers, photographers, and engineers often prefer massive 30+ inch 4K/5K displays
- Entertainment—Larger screens immerse you in movies, videos, and games
Ideally, pick the largest display that ergonomically fits your setup in terms of desktop area and typical viewing distance.
Can you upgrade the internal components?
Some all-in-one models allow users to access the internals for adding/swapping RAM, storage drives, and sometimes even the graphics card. However, compact AIO designs impose limits on upgradability. Before buying, research whether the specific model can be upgraded.
Overall, aim for an AIO with your ideal specs from the start where possible, since expandability is limited. External upgrades like added USB ports or external drives are often easier.
Are all-in-one desktops good for gaming or video editing?
Entry-level all-in-one desktops rely on integrated graphics, making them unsuitable for serious gaming or video production work with 4K/8K footage. However, AIO designs with dedicated GPUs like NVIDIA RTX/GTX or AMD Radeon RX graphics cards provide ample power for AAA gaming at good settings and editing/rendering high-resolution footage quickly.
Look for all-in-ones with at least 6GB of VRAM, fast processors, sufficient RAM (16GB+), and high-speed SSDs for intensive creative workloads.
Is it easy to repair/replace parts if something breaks?
Due to tight internal configurations, repairing individual components inside AIOs is difficult. Simple fixes like replacing RAM or storage may be possible with removeable panels, but issues with the display, motherboard, or graphics require sending the entire unit in for service.
Unless under warranty, repair costs can approach the price of a new all-in-one computer. Extended warranties help avoid out-of-pocket expenses and downtime. Overall, AIOs emphasize convenience rather than DIY repairs.
What peripherals can you attach to all-in-one desktop PCs?
One benefit of AIO designs is that the integrated monitor frees up desk space for peripheral devices. Most all-in-one desktops support attaching accessories like:
- External hard drives, SSDs, and NAS for additional storage
- Printers, scanners, cameras, and other USB devices
- Gaming controllers, drawing tablets, and specialty input devices
- External displays like a second monitor or TV
- Speakers, headsets, microphones for enhanced audio
- Wireless/wired keyboards and mice to suit user preferences
- Webcams, security cameras, and other accessories
With a range of connectivity through USB 2.0/3.0/C, USB-A/B, HDMI, Thunderbolt, and more, AIOs accommodate diverse peripherals for work and play.
What is the best brand for all-in-one desktops?
Top all-in-one desktop brands include:
- Apple: Premium devices like the iMac showcase elegant design and macOS integration.
- Dell: Reliable PCs covering affordable Inspiron to high-end XPS AiO models.
- HP: Leading manufacturer with excellent Envy and Pavilion all-in-one options.
- Lenovo: Affordable IdeaCentre AIOs along with ThinkCentre business models.
- ASUS: Zen AiO and ProArt series provide good value across budget to high-performance configurations.
- Microsoft: Inventive Surface Studio 2 features adjustable touch display.
- Acer: Aspire series offers family-friendly PCs with touchscreens.
Ultimately, choose based on your budget, preferred specs, and OS needs. Top manufacturers all provide quality all-in-one desktop choices.
Conclusion
From compact budget models to expansive powerhouse machines, all-in-one desktop computers provide appealing form factors to save space without sacrificing performance. Models from Dell, HP, Apple, Microsoft and other leading brands deliver solid bang for the buck.
For home and office use, the desktops covered in this guide represent excellent choices across a range of prices. Carefully compare display size, resolution, processor specs, memory, graphics, storage, and special features as you choose the right AIO for your needs. Reading reviews helps provide deeper insight before purchase.
Narrow down your selection to two or three top contenders. Weigh the pros and cons of each. Finally, select the all-in-one that best fits your budget while meeting your performance, connectivity, and workspace needs. An AIO desktop simplifies your setup with convenience and style.