All-in-one computers resemble conventional desktop computer systems in terms of features and functionality. The only difference between an all-in-one and a desktop PC is the number of components. While desktops consist of the computer case plus a separate monitor, all-in-ones combine the display and computer into a single package. This consolidation gives the all-in-one computer system a smaller profile than a desktop computer system.
Why All-in-One PCs Are Better Than Conventional Desktops
The earliest form of computer screens used large cathode ray tubes. Because of the size of the screens, computer systems consisted of three major components: the monitor, the computer case, and the input devices.
As monitor sizes decreased and the computer market consolidated into IBM-compatible and Apple-compatible product lines, computer companies began to integrate the computer case into the monitor to create all-in-one designs. These early all-in-one computer systems were still large and cost more than a standard desktop setup.
The most successful of the all-in-one personal computers was the Apple iMac. The original design used the cathode-ray monitor with the computer boards and components integrated under the tube.
