Due to our technological advancement in today's era, people are faced with an endless list of possible options when it comes to purchasing a personal computer. If you're choosing between a laptop and a desktop, you could definitely use this article.
Desktop
Advantages:
* Less likely to get stolen or to get lost. Desktop computers are quite inconvenient to carry. Thieves are more likely to steal gadgets that are portable, such as a tablet or a laptop.
* Easier to upgrade or repair. It is always easier to add or remove components to a desktop which makes it very flexible. Components can be replaced when they are broken.
* More durable... In general, desktops last longer than laptops.
* Less expensive. These days, there are many affordable laptops out there but if you would look at the specifications, it's usually no match to a full desktop's speed and memory size. There are some really good laptops that are already dual core and the memory is about 320GB or more but they're far from being cheap.
* The screen resolution of available monitors for desktops is higher and far better than most portable devices. A high resolution screen can consume a large amount of power. It's not ideal for most portable computers to have high resolution screens because it can easily drain the battery.
* Come in various shapes and sizes with some of the latest models being very sleek.
* Excellent for those who are very serious about their gaming - can add lots of customizations including increased power, excellent graphic cards and sound cards.
Disadvantages:
* Not portable. You can't carry it around with you.
* Totally dependent on electricity. If there's a power outage, you won't be able to use it unless you have an alternative source of power like a UPS or a power generator...
* Not as stylish and trendy as laptops and tablets.
Laptop
Though laptops still don't challenge all the benefits of a desktop computer, the gap will continue to narrow, and for mobile workers a laptop is the way to go. Whether a laptop can replace a desktop depends on the kind of work you do.
Advantages:
* It's number one advantage is its portability. It can easily be carried around which makes it perfect for those who are on the go. Also excellent for working with on the couch, kitchen bench, coffee shop etc.
* Powered by rechargeable batteries. You can still use it even when there is a power outage.
* Stylish and trendy. They look more attractive compared to desktops. They come in different styles and colors.
* Comes in all shapes and sizes... and now colours so your laptop can be a reflection of your personality.
* Compact design. A laptop is a space saver. It doesn't occupy a big amount of space unlike a full desktop.
* Can attach external screens, mouse, keyboard, speakers etc., whatever you like.
Disadvantages:
* Higher risk of being stolen. Compared to a full desktop, laptops are more vulnerable to theft. Countless laptops are stolen everyday so you need to be cautious.
* While it's unlikely that a desktop computer will fall off the desk, the same can't be said for a laptop, which runs the risk of being accidentally dropped.
* Limited battery life plus the battery's life deteriorates after prolonged use.
* Not easy to upgrade or repair. Laptops have components that are specifically customized for a particular unit. If one of the components is damaged, you might have to replace the whole laptop.
* Screen resolution may be not high quality. For high-end graphics work, a laptop's LCD screen and graphics technology is not a viable alternative to the better colour representation of a large CRT monitor and a dedicated graphics card.
* Some people find that the keyboard is not as comfortable and functional as a full keyboard that comes with a desktop PC.
As you could see, desktops and laptops both have their own advantages and disadvantages and in reality also are in many ways very similar in their capabilities to the average user. Choosing between them would depend on what points are more important to you and what purpose the computer will serve you.
