All-In-One Systems Buying Guide

Find the perfect all-in-one POS system for your business with our comprehensive guide covering form factors, touch technologies, operating systems, and performance specifications for every industry.

Professional Recommendation: Connectivity Planning

When selecting an all-in-one POS system, prioritize models with adequate built-in peripheral connectivity. While USB hubs and port splitters provide functional workarounds, we strongly recommend systems with sufficient native ports to accommodate your complete peripheral ecosystem. This approach ensures optimal signal integrity, reduces latency, and minimizes potential hardware failure points in your mission-critical point-of-sale environment.

Key Decision Factors

Form Factor & Size

Choose the right size and form factor based on your space and usage requirements

Touch Technology

Select the appropriate touch technology for your environment and usage

Operating System

Choose between Windows, Android, or Linux based on your software needs

Connectivity Options

Evaluate connectivity needs for peripherals and network integration

Performance & Specs

Consider processing power and specifications for your applications

Compact (10-12")

Pros:
  • Space saving
  • Lower cost
  • Portable options
Cons:
  • Smaller screen
  • Limited expansion
  • Reduced performance

Standard (14-15")

Pros:
  • Balanced size
  • Good performance
  • Adequate screen space
Cons:
  • Moderate footprint
  • Mid-range pricing

Large (17-22")

Pros:
  • Maximum screen space
  • High performance
  • Full functionality
Cons:
  • Larger footprint
  • Higher cost
  • Less portable

Resistive Touch

Pros:
  • Works with any object
  • Cost effective
  • Durable
Cons:
  • Lower clarity
  • Single touch only
  • Pressure required

Capacitive Touch

Pros:
  • Multi-touch support
  • High clarity
  • Light touch
Cons:
  • Higher cost
  • Glove incompatible
  • Moisture sensitive

Non-Touch Display

Pros:
  • Lowest cost
  • High durability
  • No accidental touches
Cons:
  • Requires keyboard/mouse
  • Less intuitive
  • Slower operation

Windows 10/11

Pros:
  • Full PC functionality
  • Software compatibility
  • Familiar interface
Cons:
  • Higher cost
  • More complex
  • Regular updates needed

Android

Pros:
  • Lower cost
  • App ecosystem
  • Easy to use
Cons:
  • Limited desktop apps
  • Different interface
  • App compatibility

Basic Connectivity

Pros:
  • Essential ports only
  • Lower cost
  • Simple setup
Cons:
  • Limited expansion
  • Fewer peripherals
  • Basic networking

Standard Connectivity

Pros:
  • Multiple USB ports
  • Ethernet & Wi-Fi
  • Serial ports
Cons:
  • Moderate complexity
  • Standard pricing
  • Good for most uses

Advanced Connectivity

Pros:
  • Maximum ports
  • Multiple displays
  • All peripherals
Cons:
  • Higher cost
  • More complex
  • May be excessive

Basic (ARM/Atom)

Pros:
  • Low power consumption
  • Cost effective
  • Fanless operation
Cons:
  • Limited performance
  • Basic applications only
  • Slower response

Standard (Celeron/i3)

Pros:
  • Good performance
  • Multi-tasking capable
  • Balanced power
Cons:
  • Moderate cost
  • May need cooling
  • Standard features

High Performance (i5/i7)

Pros:
  • Maximum performance
  • Future-proof
  • Heavy applications
Cons:
  • Higher cost
  • More power usage
  • May be overkill

Professional Recommendations

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Recommended All-In-One Systems

Looking for a recommendation?

Custom America, Ascent, Windows 15.6"

he Ascent is equipped with long-life 11th-generation Intel® processors that deliver reliable performance for demanding POS applications and smooth day-to-day operations.

key Features

  • Windows 11
  • Multiple Operating Systems
  • 3 Year Warranty

$1,049.00

Custom America, Trek, Windows 21.5"

TREK Android by Custom Group is your versatile, all-in-one solution for true functionality.

key Features

  • Windows 11
  • High Resolution
  • Multiple Ports

$899.00

Microtouch, M1-215IC-W5-A2, 21.5" All-in-One Series, Windows (Stand Sold Separately)

The M1-215IC-W5-A2 is a 21.5″ Windows all-in-one touch screen computer ideal for POS, self-service, kiosk, and commercial applications.

key Features

  • Core™ i5-1245UE
  • 3 Year Warranty
  • Commercial Grade

$2,004.00

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between resistive and capacitive touch screens?

Resistive touch screens work with any object and are more durable but require pressure and only support single touch. Capacitive screens offer multi-touch, higher clarity, and lighter touch but cost more and don't work with gloves.

Should I choose Windows or Android for my POS System?

Windows offers full PC functionality and software compatibility but costs more. Android provides lower cost, easy-to-use interface, and good app ecosystem but may have limited desktop software compatibility.

What screen size is best for my business?

10-12" screens are great for limited space and mobile use, 14-15" offers balanced performance for most businesses, while 17-22" provides maximum functionality for complex operations but requires more counter space.

How important is processor performance in a POS system?

Basic ARM/Atom processors work for simple POS applications, Celeron/i3 handles most business needs with good multitasking, while i5/i7 processors are ideal for complex applications and future-proofing.

What connectivity options do I need?

Most businesses need Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and multiple USB ports. Consider serial ports for legacy peripherals, Bluetooth for wireless devices, and additional display outputs for customer displays.