I am considering replacing my desktop PC. My Pentium IV 2.4Ghz system is getting slow and I think I deserve an upgrade. I know, P4 is so old now :), but it has done the job so far. I have also been waiting for Windows 7 to come out, because there was no way I was going to use a system with Windows Vista. This is a great opportunity to upgrade both my PC and the operating system.

I was thinking about getting an all-in-one PC, mainly because they look nice and save space, but at the same time I was not very familiar with these models. I had to do some research. This is what I found out:

Advantages of all-in-one PCs:

• Saves space – All components are in one box, with the monitor. Fewer components to look after.
• Portable – If you don’t have a laptop and you want to take it somewhere else, it’s easy.
• Fewer cables – Since the monitor is integrated into the system, you don’t need the power cable and VGA cable for the screen.
• Some models include touch screen technology. You don’t need to use the mouse all the time.
• Good alternative to expensive Apple iMacs

Disadvantages:

• Weaker performance – All-in-one PCs include components that are designed to save space, such as hard drive, memory and processor, similar to those used in Laptops. They are not as good as desktop components which are not limited by space. Therefore desktop components have much better performance
• Not possible to upgrade – while desktops are easily upgradable (you can basically change and upgrade every part inside), all-in-one PCs are limited in this area. Therefore, you must choose well when you select one and make sure it has everything you need.

In conclusion, if you want a PC that doesn’t take too much space and lets you do all your basic tasks without hassles, then go for it. If you are looking to upgrade later or need something more powerful, stick with the traditional desktops.

The best all-in-one models I would recommend are:

HP Touchsmart 300 and 600 models: See them at the HP Web site and read the review here.

Or the inexpensive HP Pavilion MS200.

Sony Vaio JS250J – read the review at Cnet.com.

Dell XPS 20 and 24 – See the full range here  and read a great review here.

One of the best deals may be the Dell Studio 19 with touch screen. It is an average desktop that is much better than the basic PC but still costs under $1000. Check out some reviews at the Testfreaks Web site.

I just need a decent Intel system with enough RAM and a good video card, so I can play a few games, surf the Internet and burn DVDs. I’ll definitely test a few of these PCs in the shops.