Buying your Computer: Desktop vs. Laptop

Laptops are almost always sleeker in design than desktop computers. It is no small wonder why people are attracted to laptops. But watch your step. These small beauties have a catch. You could end up with a stylish and eye-catching laptop that cannot perform at par with your expectations. Here are some things that you may want to consider before deciding between a desktop and a laptop.

* Cost

Desktops are generally inexpensive investments when compared to a laptop of the same performance level. When buying laptops, you pay a hefty premium for portability — the ability to carry your computer with you all day, anywhere, at any time. If mobility is not an issue with you, a desktop computer is an economical and practical purchase.

* Use

Why are you buying a computer? Do you need a machine so you can immediately record your thoughts and bursts of inspiration while on business trips? Are you buying a computer so you can connect wirelessly on the Internet while traveling about? A laptop will fit the lifestyle of a busy and active person who needs computing power at all times.

If you are looking for a gaming PC, stay away from laptops. Because of their small sizes, laptops are only endowed with so many components and are usually less powerful than desktops of the same capacity and speed. While there are high performance laptops on the market, their upgrade options are limited. You will end up with a low-performing machine in the long run that will no longer be able to play the latest games.

* Power and Upgradeability

The best thing about desktops is the room for change and modifications. Space is not a big concern for desktop computer casings so you can fit in a lot of components inside. In contrast, laptops have rigid space limits. Most laptop components, such as the LCD screen, have been integrated into the casing and cannot be easily replaced or upgraded. With few upgrade options, a powerful laptop now will not be that powerful months or years later. With an old desktop, you can always replace old parts with newer and better versions and have a powerful PC in keeping with the times.

* Size and Portability

This is the area where laptops rule over desktops. Portability is what accounts for a laptop’s hefty price tag. Laptops are way lighter and smaller than desktop computers and, thus, very easy to transport. Their portability makes laptop computers an ideal companion for busy business professionals who are always on the go. It also makes laptops an ideal choice for people who have little room to spare on their cluttered study tables.

Desktops are great if permanently stored at a stationary location in your house. If you are bent on purchasing a notebook computer that you can carry with you to the office, school, or on trips, expect to pay more than its desktop counterpart.