A desktop computer is designed to be easily moved from one desktop to another.

If you’re in the market for a new desktop computer but aren’t sure which option is right for you, you should include an all-in-one desktop computer in your search. The HP all-in-one desktop computer is designed to provide a balance between functionality and form, with several models on the market with various user needs in mind.

If these computers are new to you, or you’re just not convinced, remember that they are a breeze to set up. In fact, even users with limited computer knowledge can go from unpackaging to use within minutes.

Not convinced that an all-in-one desktop computer is for you? Here are some of the top reasons why this desktop PC choice is gaining in popularity and may be the best fit for your business, home office, or family's computing needs.

Most people may not hear the term used often, but an all-in-one (often referred to as AiO) computer is commonplace in modern workspaces. In the simplest terms, it’s a computer that combines all desktop components in one enclosed unit, instead of having a separate computer tower from the display monitor. It functions in the same way as a traditional desktop arrangement, but typically has a smaller profile and takes up much less space.

Another major difference between the all-in-one desktop and a typical desktop is that you generally buy an AiO computer with the upgrades you already want in place.

The all-in-one PC case is within the monitor, so it’s unlikely you’ll be opening it to change out parts or upgrade storage space without the help of a professional.

Traditional desktop computers are larger, partly because their storage cases contain empty space. While that space makes it easier to access parts or upgrade components, it’s also wasted when you don’t add on extras.

An all-in-one desktop PC doesn’t have this wasted space because it makes the most of every square inch for a more compact experience.

The HP AiO brand has several distinct advantages over the traditional desktop computer. As noted, it has a slimmer design that takes up less overall space than the bulkier tower and monitor configuration.

Many offices struggle to find places to put the computers, so they may end up on the floor, in a dusty cabinet, or in-hard-to-reach places within the work cubicle. When you consider that some businesses have hundreds - if not thousands - of desktops to store, and ultimately must turn to computer disposal, switching to an all-in-one PC can save significant space in already cramped offices.

The all-in-one is often purchased with size in mind, so its design is a bit more aesthetically pleasing in color and finish than many traditional desktop computers.

Take the HP Pavilion 24-inch All-in-One desktop, for example. It has a very minimalist look with a sophisticated Blizzard White finish that blends in seamlessly with any office design theme. Its sleek chassis takes up almost no room, and the built-in camera can be stored when not in use.

While many users will be happy to leave their computer in one place, the beauty of an all-in-one is that you can take it with you. These smaller, lighter all-in-one desktops can be picked up and taken to another room or office without calling the IT department.

They weigh as little as 12 lbs, and those with built-in touch screen displays won’t even require you to take along a mouse or keyboard. For offices or families that share, or for when you need to make a presentation, the all-in-one desktop is ready to go at a moment’s notice.

The HP Pavilion All-in-One features a 23.8-inch Full HD (FHD) touch screen display, making it perfect for creative work. It’s also ideal for when you want to ditch your wireless keyboard and mouse setup to actually gets hands-on with your projects.

Many all-in-one users have made this their choice over a desktop because of this innovative perk, which is surprisingly affordable. You also no longer have to choose between a touch screen and computing power with the these upgraded models from HP®.

All-in-ones are truly doing amazing things with the newest technology, including 3D printing.

If you choose the HP Sprout, you’ll get an all-in-one computer with the potential to create opportunities in even the smallest spaces.

Many of the headaches that traditional desktops cause can be resolved by switching to an all-in-one computer. Dusty, loud, and power-hungry desktop towers can get noisy and create unwanted heat in an already-cramped cubicle. HP all-in-one desktops combat these issues by being energy-efficient, allowing them to keep things quiet and not give off the type of heat that comes from their larger, often clunkier counterparts.

Keeping your all-in-one dust-free is also easier since the unit sits right on your desk where it's easily within cleaning reach. With fewer ports and openings to tend to, these sleeker and smaller computers can be wiped down and cared for with minimal effort.

Many offices are putting design first to provide a decluttered workspace that can ease tension and improve productivity. We know that there is some truth to how such streamlined design can influence happier, healthier workers. That is why HP® offers today's workers a creative computing alternative to modernize workspaces that embraces style and substance - HP All-in-One.

Replacing older, space-consuming desktop towers with HP All-in-One desktop computers is just one way to reclaim lost space and help beautify the office, whether at work or home. Of course, it helps that the HP All-in-One comes with fantastic features like a crisp HD touch screen display, easy portability, and the exquisite design you’ve come to expect from HP®.

Check out the new look and enjoy easier access to your favorite features

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What is a laptop computer?

A laptop is a personal computer that can be easily moved and used in a variety of locations. Most laptops are designed to have all of the functionality of a desktop computer, which means they can generally run the same software and open the same types of files. However, laptops also tend to be more expensive than comparable desktop computers.

Watch the video below to learn about laptop computers.

How is a laptop different from a desktop?

Because laptops are designed for portability, there are some important differences between them and desktop computers. A laptop has an all-in-one design, with a built-in monitor, keyboard, touchpad (which replaces the mouse), and speakers. This means it is fully functional, even when no peripherals are connected. A laptop is also quicker to set up, and there are fewer cables to get in the way.

You'll also have to the option to connect a regular mouse, larger monitor, and other peripherals. This basically turns your laptop into a desktop computer, with one main difference: You can easily disconnect the peripherals and take the laptop with you wherever you go.

Here are the main differences you can expect with a laptop.

Touchpad: A touchpad—also called a trackpad—is a touch-sensitive pad that lets you control the pointer by making a drawing motion with your finger.

Battery: Every laptop has a battery, which allows you to use the laptop when it's not plugged in. Whenever you plug in the laptop, the battery recharges. Another benefit of having a battery is that it can provide backup power to the laptop if the power goes out.
AC adapter: A laptop usually has a specialized power cable called an AC adapter, which is designed to be used with that specific type of laptop.

Ports: Most laptops have the same types of ports found on desktop computers (such as USB), although they usually have fewer ports to save space. However, some ports may be different, and you may need an adapter in order to use them.
Price: Generally speaking, laptops tend to be more expensive than a desktop computer with the same internal components. While you may find that some basic laptops cost less than desktop computers, these are usually much less powerful machines.

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