Which is better, the all-in-one or the “mini host + monitor”? Without considering desktop and laptop options, which is better? Experts, please give your opinion, thank you.

If it were me, I would prioritize recommending the all-in-one because it has been developed earlier than the mini host, making it relatively more mature. Additionally, as long as you purchase a branded product, there is guarantee regarding after-sales service and maintenance. As for comments from netizens saying that the all-in-one has limitations, such as if it breaks down, the whole unit fails, whereas the mini host can be disassembled and repaired more easily, which is also a valid point and very good!

I think whether it is a mini host and monitor combination or an all-in-one, the advantage compared to a normal host and monitor combination is that it is more portable and easier to carry! However, over the years, I have seen many people using all-in-ones, whether from Lenovo or Apple, and none have broken down. In fact, it is very similar to a laptop, which is also a highly integrated product. Indeed, if it breaks, it can be a total loss. But product quality has greatly improved over the years! I don’t think there are major issues!

Recommendation: Lenovo Lecoo All-in-One Desktop Computer 27 inches (Core i5-12450H 16G 512G Windows11 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse) White

The all-in-one can provide a large screen experience while not taking up too much space for a host. It integrates the host, display, and speakers. Many people may worry that the motherboard and display are together, and the motherboard’s heat may easily affect the display, but I believe they will have a good separation in between.

Recommendation: Huawei All-in-One Computer MateStation X 28.2 inches 4K + Touch Full Screen i9-12900H / 32G / 2TB SSD / WIFI6 Win11 Moonlight Silver

However, I see that Huawei’s solution places the host on a support rod, with the upper part being the display, effectively solving this awkward problem! So for friends concerned about this issue with all-in-ones, you can pay attention to which model of Huawei all-in-one!

Recommendation: Apple iMac 24 inches Silver 4.5K Screen 8-Core M3 Chip (10-Core Graphics Processor) 8G 512G SSD All-in-One Computer Host MQRK3CH/A

Of course, mini hosts also have their advantages. If you enjoy DIY and like to personalize your office decor without wanting a normal host, then a mini host is an excellent choice. It is very convenient to upgrade memory, add hard drives, and replace some components. Additionally, external devices like keyboards, mice, and speakers can be personalized for home environments and regular office scenarios, giving mini hosts an advantage. Some mini hosts can also achieve gaming performance, even though the mini host body is small.

Recommendation: ThundeRobot MIX 13th Generation High-Performance Mini Office NUC Small Case Mini Pocket Host (13th i5-13500H 32G 1TP4SSD WIFI6 0.53L)

However, it can still achieve high performance, which is something that all-in-ones do not have an advantage over mini hosts! All-in-ones are highly integrated, and replacing parts requires professional handling. If issues arise, it can be very awkward compared to mini hosts, which are easier to play with and disassemble. But if you buy a branded computer, try not to operate like this during the warranty period, because once you unscrew the sealed screws, it might mean they may not provide after-sales service anymore, which would be a loss!

Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi 27 inches Monitor 4K Ultra Clear 100%sRGB HDR400 Type-C Reverse Charging Adjustable Rotating Stand Computer Office Monitor Screen

Finally, regarding purchasing options, I think it depends on your starting point. If you prefer a minimalist style and do not have heavy work operations, and daily experience is enough, then an all-in-one is suitable. It looks like you can work with just a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. If you prefer something more personalized and want some room for future upgrades, then a mini host + monitor is a very good combination, especially since monitors are very cheap now. What do you all think? I welcome everyone to follow me, entrepreneur Li Meng, and discuss together!

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