An all-in-one is essentially a portable desktop. They vary in size from 24-32 inches and are equipped with either an Intel or AMD Ryzen processor, 16gb of memory, 1-tb of storage and wireless mouse and keyboard. This is an excellent option for anyone interested in a larger computer without having to buy a monitor since the computer and monitor are integrated like a laptop. All the USB ports are in back of the monitor. The wireless feature reduces the cluster of cables. Premium all-in-ones can be raised or lowered on the base.
A practical stand alone desktop is still available with the same processors and memory.
If someone already has a monitor or prefers to choose one they like, a desktop may be the right choice. Also, a desktop has 6 USB slots along with other outlets such as an ethernet port and can be fairly easy to connect.
The most popular desktops are the sleek-looking units with video cards in transparent cases exhibiting the internal components and flashing lights when the unit is activated. They appeal mainly to gamers, animators, designers and others engaged in advanced graphic design work. Since graphic cards generate considerable warmth, the cooling fans installed in these systems are state of the art and effective in keeping the computer from overheating.
Monitors differ based on the following criteria:
1)-Bits number which indicates the brightness level, typically from 300-600
2)-The hz or “refresh rate” which highlights the ability of the monitor to smoothly keep up with the action being viewed without hesitation or interruption; most screens are designed to perform at 60 hz but some can run up to 240hz
3)-The MS (MilliSeconds) number, usually 1.0 or lower is the ability of the screen to project clear, accurate, true to form colors without pixel distortion from stationary content to high action videos
Some monitors have 4K-OLED features making them as vivid as a high definition television. In terms of size, there is a 16 inch portable model up to a 49 inch curved unit. A 60 hz monitor is the most practical for daily computer activities.
A television has many of the same metrics. When you look at the specifications of a high end 4K-OLED TV, you will usually find a 600 bits rating with at a least 120 hz rate. They are called “smart tv’s” because they are equipped with voice activation systems such as Alexa, can access the Internet or be used as a computer monitor with an HDMI(preferably 8k) cable.
To project an image from a computer to a TV, you would use a Google Chrome-Cast or Amazon Fire Stick. An OLED TV typically ranges from 48-85 inches. Today, even the larger sizes produce a sharp, crisp and detailed image. As TV technology continues to evolve and dimensions grow, some brands are offering models between 100-136 inches. If you are considering turning a part of the home into a movie room and have the space(or maybe move to a larger home), these new creations are worth a look. But because of their weight and size, they need to be securely attached to a wall that can support such a heavy device.
At Best Buy you will see picture frame samples in the home theater department.
This is not a mistake. You can now frame your flat screen the way you would a Picasso!
When you have a moment to explore appliances, there is plenty of innovation in this category as well. You will come across a refrigerator with a computer/TV embedded in the door, the ability to check the contents of your refrigerator from your phone while at the supermarket, voice activated ovens and a clothes washer which converts to a dryer with just a click.
Should you decide to treat yourself to one of these conversation provoking pieces and make your home the envy of friends and family (especially family) please consider purchasing the extended repair warranty. The era of the old fashion Maytag repairman has vanished. Today’s appliance specialist must be well versed in electronics and computer programming.
The Consumer Electronics Show is held each January in Las Vegas. It will be fun to see what wizardry is introduced for us to gawk at in 2026.
Be well, have a blast shopping and happy holidays!!
Henry,
Another great post!
Since we’ve downsized we’re looking to replace our desktop and monitor with a
‘laptop’ to get us more room on our
“office” desk.
Plus, we can fold it up and put it on the shelf when we want to use the desk for something else.
For less than $100, it is easy to buy a docking station which allows with one cord, the use of a monitor, big keyboard, and wired mouse, speakers, and wired network printers. After loading the software for the station, it only requires using one Fn key to mirror the laptop screen on the monitor. You can then unplug that one cord and carry to laptop off to use remotely. So, you can easily transform a laptop into a desktop.
In the monitors section, 1) “Bits” should be “nits,” the standard unit for measuring brightness.
To “nit”-pick, also Hertz is Hz and millisecond is ms. (M is for mega, meaning million.)