I want to replace an old eMachines PC from 2002. I would prefer a desktop with a flatscreen like the one I used to have at work, but have seen some all-in-one machines that seem very tidy. Are there any downsides for a golden oldie who really only uses his computer for email and internet browsing?
Bill Howat
All-in-one PCs have been around for a long time but only the Apple iMac versions have ever sold in any volume, possibly because Apple doesn't offer the sort of cheap mini-tower systems that are popular with Windows PC buyers. An all-in-one design will do what you need, and certainly looks tidier, especially if used with a wireless keyboard and mouse. The drawbacks are that all-in-one PCs are harder to expand, and USB ports and CD/DVD drives tend not to be as accessible as they are on the front of a mini-tower. All-in-one designs are also more expensive, especially if you want a big screen, and you can't replace the computer separately from replacing the screen: it all goes to recycling - or landfill - together.
In general, then, I think you are better off buying a mini-tower and spending any extra funds on a bigger, sharper LCD screen. Even if you'll never upgrade the system's sound or graphics card or add a bigger hard drive yourself, you can get someone else to do it for you. And when your mini-tower system finally needs replacing, you'll have the option to re-use your old screen, or use your new PC with two screens.
