Portable All in One PCs That Keep Up With You
The best portable all in one computer for most people is the Microsoft Surface Studio 2+, which combines a stunning PixelSense display with a versatile zero gravity hinge that lets you work flat or angled. Its main limitation is the high price, making it a premium choice for creative professionals rather than budget shoppers.
Portable all in one computers merge the convenience of a desktop with the mobility of a laptop. They are ideal for professionals who need a large screen in different locations, educators moving between classrooms, or anyone with a small workspace who wants to declutter.
This roundup highlights seven models that excel in portability, performance, and display quality. We considered real user feedback and technical specifications to help you choose the right one for your workflow.
The best picks, ranked
Microsoft Surface Studio 2+
The Surface Studio 2+ is a powerhouse with a 28 inch PixelSense display that can be lowered to a 20 degree angle for drawing or drafting. It runs on an Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics, making it capable of demanding design work. Owners love the crisp display and the smooth hinge mechanism, though they note it is heavy at over 21 pounds.
Pros
- Exceptional display with true to life colors
- Versatile hinge for drawing or presenting
- Strong performance for creative tasks
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heavy and not truly portable for frequent travel
HP Envy Move All in One 24
The HP Envy Move features a 23.8 inch touchscreen and a built in handle for easy carrying from room to room. It runs on an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and includes a battery, so you can use it without plugging in for a while. Owners appreciate the full HD display and the included wireless keyboard and mouse, but some wish the battery life were longer.
Pros
- Built in handle makes moving easy
- Battery allows cord free use
- Good performance for everyday tasks
Cons
- Battery life is modest
- Only Full HD resolution
Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i
The Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i is a 22 inch all in one that is lightweight enough to move around the house. It features an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, which is fine for web browsing, document editing, and streaming. Owners report that the display is decent for the price, and the stand is adjustable for comfortable viewing.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compact and light
- Sufficient for everyday tasks
Cons
- Performance is limited for heavy multitasking
- Speakers are weak
ASUS Zen AiO 27
The ASUS Zen AiO 27 offers a 27 inch 4K UHD touchscreen with excellent color accuracy. It is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor and includes a pop up webcam for privacy. The aluminum chassis looks premium, and the included wireless keyboard and mouse are comfortable. Owners love the sharp display, but note that the stand offers limited tilt adjustment.
Pros
- Stunning 4K display
- Strong performance
- Privacy webcam
Cons
- Limited ergonomic adjustments
- No battery means it must be plugged in
Dell Inspiron 27 7720 All in One
The Dell Inspiron 27 7720 is a 27 inch all in one with a QHD display and a built in pop up webcam with AI auto framing. It features an Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM, making it capable for multitasking. Owners report that the microphone array and speakers are good for conference calls, and the design is modern.
Pros
- High quality webcam for video conferencing
- Plenty of RAM for productivity
- Sleek design
Cons
- No battery, must stay plugged in
- Integrated graphics only
Apple iMac 24 inch with M3 chip
The Apple iMac 24 inch is incredibly thin and light, making it easy to move around the home. It features the M3 chip, which delivers fast performance and efficient power use. The 24 inch 4.5K Retina display is vivid, and the six speaker system provides great sound. Owners praise the design and performance, but note that the port selection is limited.
Pros
- Exceptional performance and efficiency
- Stunning display and speakers
- Very light and portable for its size
Cons
- Limited ports, only two Thunderbolt and two USB C
- Higher price than similar Windows models
LG 24CN650N 24 inch All in One
The LG 24CN650N is a 24 inch all in one with a built in handle and a retractable camera. It is powered by an Intel Core i5 processor and includes a battery for short term use. The touchscreen is responsive, and the stand allows for height and tilt adjustments. Owners find it convenient for moving between meeting rooms, though the battery life is short.
Pros
- Convenient handle for carrying
- Adjustable stand
- Battery backup
Cons
- Limited battery life
- Average speakers
What to look for
How they stack up
| # | Model | Display | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Microsoft Surface Studio 2+ | 28 inch PixelSense, 4500 x 3000 resolution | Creative professionals who need a large, color accurate touchscreen | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | HP Envy Move All in One 24 | 23.8 inch FHD touchscreen | Families and students who want a portable touchscreen for shared use | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i | 21.5 inch FHD | Budget shoppers who need a basic portable desktop | 8.6 | Check price |
| 4 | ASUS Zen AiO 27 | 27 inch 4K UHD touchscreen | Users who want a 4K display and a sleek design | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Dell Inspiron 27 7720 All in One | 27 inch QHD | Remote workers who need a reliable machine for video calls and productivity | 8.9 | Check price |
| 6 | Apple iMac 24 inch with M3 chip | 24 inch 4.5K Retina | Apple enthusiasts who want a compact, colorful desktop | 9.3 | Check price |
| 7 | LG 24CN650N 24 inch All in One | 24 inch FHD touchscreen | Business users who need a portable touchscreen with a handle | 8.4 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
Can I use a portable all in one computer without a power outlet?
Some models come with a built in battery, allowing temporary use without a power source. The HP Envy Move and LG 24CN650N have batteries, but they typically last only a few hours. Others, like the Surface Studio 2+, must be plugged in at all times.
What is the difference between a portable all in one and a laptop?
A portable all in one has a larger screen, usually 20 inches or more, and a separate keyboard and mouse. Laptops have a built in keyboard and are more compact. Portable all in ones are easier to use for extended periods because of the larger display and ergonomic setup.
Are portable all in one computers good for gaming?
Most portable all in ones are not designed for serious gaming. They often use integrated graphics or low power discrete GPUs. Some models, like the Surface Studio 2+, have a dedicated graphics card, but they are still not as powerful as gaming desktops. For casual games, they are fine.
How much RAM do I need in a portable all in one?
For basic tasks like web browsing and document editing, 8GB of RAM is enough. For multitasking and more demanding applications, 16GB is recommended. Creative professionals may want 32GB or more, but that is rare in portable models.
Can I upgrade the components in a portable all in one?
Upgradability is limited in most portable all in ones. RAM and storage are often soldered to the motherboard or difficult to access. If you think you will need more memory or storage in the future, consider purchasing a model with higher specs from the start.
Do portable all in one computers come with a keyboard and mouse?
Yes, most models include a wireless keyboard and mouse. Some offer them with the purchase, while others may include them in the box. Always check the product description to confirm what is included.
What is the best size for a portable all in one?
It depends on your space and needs. A 24 inch screen is a good balance between display size and portability. Larger 27 inch screens provide more room for work but are heavier. Smaller 22 inch models are lighter but may feel cramped for some tasks.
How do I clean and maintain a portable all in one?
Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the screen and exterior. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Keep the vents clear of dust to prevent overheating. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care and cleaning.
Final word
For most people, the HP Envy Move All in One 24 offers the best combination of portability, performance, and value. Its handle and battery make it truly easy to move, and it handles everyday tasks with ease. If you need top notch performance for creative work and have the budget, the Microsoft Surface Studio 2+ is worth the investment. For budget minded users, the Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i is a solid choice, but be prepared for modest performance.
Marcus Chen
Marcus covered consumer electronics for enthusiast tech publications for six years before joining ChoiceCrest. He specializes in translating manufacturer spec sheets into plain-language buying advice, with a focus on audio, computing accessories and smart-home gear.
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