Desktop vs. Laptop Computers
|
Desktop vs. Laptop: The Ultimate Showdown!
|
|
|
|
|
Desktop Computers
Pros:
-
More bang for the buck.
-
Desktops offer faster processors, more memory and more drives since they have more room for fans and extra equipment, but still cost less than an equally powerful laptop.
-
Easy to customize.
-
Much easier to add components both when you order and later on, so your computer can grow with you.
-
Multimedia systems.
-
Many high-end desktops have the components to function as a TV, DVR, DVD/CD player and photo display, as well as being powerful computers.
-
Choose your display.
-
If you like the convenience of having a large display, especially for doing graphics, artwork, photo-editing and gaming, you will quickly tire of having to work off a small laptop screen.
Cons:
-
Bulky.
-
All-in-one desktops have smaller footprints but are still not meant to be carried around.
-
Especially large if you get a CRT monitor to go with it.
-
Even without a deep monitor, a large powerful tower needs space either on your desk or underneath.
-
Cluttered.
-
Even the most basic setup for a desktop requires a monitor, mouse, and keyboard.
-
All the nifty peripherals - like speakers, a printer, a memory card reader, and other things - all add to the number of cables and power strips you will need.
-
Heavy/Hard to Move.
-
If you do need to move your computer at some point, it will be difficult and require more packing than just closing a laptop and sliding it into a backpack.
|
Laptop Computers
Pros:
-
Portability, portability, portability.
-
Although not as high powered as desktops, a good laptop will do pretty much everything the average user wants in a three to ten pound package.
-
Self-contained.
-
A laptop sitting on your desk needs nothing more than a power cord and maybe an ethernet cable. This keeps your work space clean and uncluttered.
-
If you opt to use your laptop as a main computer, there are port docks that can connect and disconnect easily from your computer so that you can use all your peripherals at home and easily leave them all behind when you need to travel.
-
Self-powered.
-
Have you ever lost a document you were working on because the power went out? That won't happen on a laptop as long as the battery is charged.
Cons:
-
Difficult to upgrade.
-
Usually have about a three-year lifespan until they will need some revamping.
-
Difficult to repair.
-
If they break they usually have to go back to the manufacturer to be fixed.
-
Depending on what goes wrong with a laptop and your warranty, you may not be able to get certain things fixed, for example the screen.
-
Easily stolen.
-
You might want a laptop lock to secure your new computer.
-
Easily bumped and bruised.
-
If you are a big klutz you may want to invest in a "high endurance" model designed to withstand impacts and bumps.
|
Bottom Line
The truth of the matter is that when deciding whether to go with a laptop or a desktop, it all comes down to which system is going to fit your lifestyle best. Laptops are certainly more convenient for travelers and young persons on the go. But if you own a home and have a computer at work, a desktop will serve you better for longer.
Related Buying Guides
Related Products
