Desktop vs Laptop
Having a new computer is always something wonderful because it won’t give you any issues or malfunctions, which means you will be able to work quickly and efficiently. But when it comes to getting a new computer, we ask ourselves – which will be better, a desktop or a laptop?
In a previous post, we already discussed about the different types of computers out there. Now let’s focus on the Desktop and the Laptop. We will focus on the advantages and disadvantages each one of these brings us.
Desktop Computers
Advantages
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Larger in size, therefore can carry more hardware which leads to better performance.
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Updates, repairs and personal setups are much simpler.
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Usually tend to be cheaper than laptops
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It is possible to upgrade your Desktop a few times since the day you bought it, which extends their life time.
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Affordable part replacements
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Compatible parts available
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Easier to install part replacements
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Longer lifetime
Disadvantages
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Desktops are obviously larger in size than a laptop and the CPU units, monitor and peripherals make it difficult to move around. Therefore, once they are configured, they must remain where they were setup.
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They take up space. They are generally placed under or on top of a desk which can reduce your work area.
Laptop Computers
Advantages
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It’s portable. Ideal for students and professionals who need to get work done on the go.
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Laptops are designed to be moved around; therefore, all of its components are tested to make sure they are stable and synced with each other to guarantee proper function.
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They are equipped with their own battery. Today’s laptops can function for many hours with just one charge. This means that a student or business person can work during conferences or meetings with their laptop and not have to worry about having them connected to a power source at all times.
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Laptops have network adapters which means you can connect to the internet with either a LAN or Wi-Fi connection. Access to the internet is extremely important nowadays, even if it’s for home use or professional use.
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Given their compact size, they can easily be put away in a drawer for safety. Laptops also come with integrated fingerprint or facial recognition for added security. These features make laptops secured in terms of unauthorized access.
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No installation required
Disadvantages
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They tend to be a bit much pricier. The same characteristics of your laptop might be more expensive compared to a desktop computer. Not to mention, if you need any hardware repairs, this can also be more expensive.
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Laptops can be more vulnerable to physical damage. Given their portability, they are more prone to being dropped, having liquid spilled on it, or just being hit.
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They must always function connected to a power source. In case of a blackout, you are out of luck!
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Customizing your laptop’s hardware is not possible. When you purchase a laptop, it is important to look at the characteristic of this, because at most you will only be able to upgrade RAM or HDD capacity.
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Parts replacement compatibility. In most cases, only certain the RAM and Disk Drive Storage can be replaced by another from a different brand. However, if you need to replace the speakers, screen, frames, etc. you cannot choose an alternative brand. Even when they are advertised as ‘compatible’, the risk of losing main features or not working properly is high. For example, if you replace your screen with a compatible one, the webcam, in most cases, will not work.
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Limmited ports. Since the tendency is to make everything smaller, lighter and thinner, the latest laptops come with only one or 2 Type-C ports. Therefore, in case you need to plug in more non-wireless devices, you will need to buy a "Docking station" or a USB hub to connect other wired devices. Some of the latest models on Windows and all of the MacBook Air and Pro models don’t even have the traditional USB port.
After going through the advantages and disadvantages of both a laptop and a desktop, it’s important to evaluate your needs beforehand. If you are planning on working on your computer in just one place, then a desktop could be a good idea. They are cheaper and they also give you the chance to upgrade according to your needs. On the other hand, if you need to take your computer with you where you go, then a laptop can be a better investment.
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See you next time!
