Folks are increasingly drawn to the sleek, compact all-in-one systems sold by Apple, HP and others, according to DisplaySearch. Recent data from the firm shows that all-in-one computers grew by 57% from 2008 to 2009 – a figure that is still on the rise. DisplaySearch forecasts that AIO PCs will jump from around 6.95 million units this year, to 12.79 million in 2015.

Apart from their physical appeal, it's believed that the systems are simply becoming a more viable solution for standard desktop users. AIO computers typically use components designed for mobile computers and are commonly underpowered compared to full-fledged desktops.


However, mobile processors are increasingly powerful and prove sufficient for basic family or corporate usage. DisplaySearch notes that while AIOs have historically been benchmarked against traditional desktops, they are gradually becoming a market of their own.

Apple holds a majority of the market, which isn't a surprise considering the iMac's popularity. HP trails in a distant second, while Acer, MSI, Sony, Lenovo, Dell, Fujitsu, NEC, Asus and others are all on the map with shares from largest to smallest in order of mention.