Over the decade most people have moved away from desktops. Yet, they are still useful for many consumers. If you are looking for a computer to use in the office or at home, then you can either choose a desktop PC or an all-in-one PC. The main difference between a desktop PC and an all-in-one PC is that desktops consist of a separate tower, monitor and keyboard while all-in-ones combine the inner workings of the PC in the screen itself- there is no separate tower to wire up.

 Desktops offer more performance than laptops and are less expensive to repair. With that in mind, let’s embark on some important things to note before taking the road to buy a desktop PC. 

 Key Features to Consider

There are many things you should consider when buying either a desktop PC or an all-in-one PC. Some include:

Type of Processor

 This is the most important factor to consider when choosing a computer. The higher the speed of the processor, the faster the computer will be able to handle many programs. According to my opinion, Intel is the best chip to go for. 

Hard Drive

 The hard drive stores your computer files and software files. Computers today usually come with 250GB, 300GB, 500GB, 750GB, OR 1TB of space in a hard drive. But today other forms of storing data have emerged such as cloud storage. The space of your hard drive will depend on your needs and the amount of information you need to store. 

Graphics

 All computers with some form of graphics built-in. But my recommendation is to go with something a little better, from AMD or NVIDIA. They make your computer resolution better. Desktops have come with a graphics card slot that allows you to add a graphics card to your desktop.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

The higher the RAM, the more efficient and faster your computer will run. Make sure you check the amount of RAM when choosing a desktop computer. This will enable you to invest in something that can multitask without interruptions.

Display Type

 When choosing the display type, keep in mind that large screen sizes with high resolutions will make it easier to manage graphics, video, and other multimedia when performing your intended work. Some common questions that should cross your mind include; does the computer display have a large display to manage multiple screens or does it have limitations? Does the screen have touchscreen capabilities or is it a standard screen?

Wireless Connectivity

 This will depend on whether you are planning to use wireless printers, scanners, and other devices designed with Bluetooth capabilities and Wi-Fi connectivity. If yes, make sure you choose a desktop equipped with the latest Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi functions. This can be very beneficial if you want to limit wires and cables around your workspace.

Operating System

 Are you a Mac or PC person? Are you planning to use Apple products or Windows products? PCs are equipped with Windows OS while Apple computers are equipped with OS X operating systems. Consider choosing the type which you have experience in. This will help you avoid spending a lot of time and resources training yourself.

 Now that you have a deep understanding of key features to look for, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of desktop computers.

 Advantages of Desktop PCs

•  More Customizable- The big benefit of a desktop PC is that it can be adapted to suit your needs. Not only can you choose the monitor you want to use with it, but you can make more significant changes, such as adding more RAM or a graphics card.
•  You can choose the power of the processor you want, with the option of coughing more for a faster model.
•  Cheap -the biggest advantage of a desktop computer is that they generally cost less, particularly if you already have a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and only need to buy the computer itself.
•  No Stress about Charging and Overheating -desktops can be used for long periods of time without any need for charging them. Therefore no worrying about the overheating problem and hence you use the desktop at a static place for long hours.

 Disadvantages of Desktop PCs

•  Portability Problems -the biggest limitation of a desktop is that it cannot be carried from one place to another easily as it is bulky and requires a power outlet.
•  Noisy and Require Space -CPU produces a lot of noise and if you are one of those who like to work in a silent environment then a desktop is out of the list. Desktop computers have a lot of cables attached to it, have extra accessories such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor which requires extra space. 

 Advantages of All-In-One PC

•  All-in-one PCs are gaining popularity in recent years. Here are some of the benefits of all-in-one PCs:
•  Easy set up – There is very little fuss involved while setting up an all-in-one PC, with most requiring you to take it out of the box, place it on your workspace, and power it on. It is a good option if you do not want to bother connecting cables and want to get running quickly.
•  Touchscreen feature – Many all-in-ones are available with a touchscreen, which adds an extra option for how to interact with your computer.
•  Save Space All-in-one pc has a slimmer design that takes up less overall space than the bulker tower and monitor configuration.
• Save on Energy -Most all-in-one pcs are energy-efficient, allowing them to keep things quiet and not give off heat that comes from their larger counterparts, desktop pc.

 Disadvantages of All-In-One PCs

•  More expensive -Most all-in-one pcs are more costly than their regular desktop counterparts.
•  Upgrading and customizing options – all-in-one PCs are usually limited and restricted to RAM upgrade only. Also, it is not easy to tweak such computers and hence they are not a good choice if you like to tweak and overclock computers.
•  Self-repairing an all-in-one PC is close to impossible compared to desktop PCs. The spare parts and services cost may be on the higher side for all-in-one desktops.
•  With all that in mind, you are now fully equipped with the basic knowledge necessary when choosing a desktop computer.