Everyone who wants to buy a computer for gaming, work or study, has to face the question: shall it be a computer or a laptop? Both have certain advantages over the opposite option, so the decision depends on the user’s priorities. Let’s evaluate these potential choices based on the key criteria.
The main differences
A desktop computer is a static PC that is placed on the table or under it, connected to the network. It consists of a system unit, monitor and peripherals (keyboard and mouse at least). When you buy a desktop computer, you can choose components with the necessary characteristics for any part of it. In this sense, the possibilities of a laptop are limited.
A laptop is a portable, handheld computer equipped with ports for peripherals. It has a built-in monitor and keyboard, as well as a touchpad that can replace a mouse. Laptops can be powered by either mains or battery. Most models run on battery power for about 12 hours, after which they need to be recharged.
Performance
An important criterion for choosing a computer is its expected performance. No doubt, modern laptops are quite productive, but personal computers are still ahead of them.
The processors of portable computers differ from desktop computers – they have lower clock speeds, which allows them to heat up less and use less power. The same is true for mobile and desktop graphics cards.
If performance is your top priority, choose a desktop PC with the right specs. Top-of-the-line laptops can also be high-performance, but they almost always lag behind top-of-the-line PCs.
Size and convenience
To choose wisely, you need to figure out your priorities. If you need to move the device often – from home to work or even from room to another room – choose a laptop. If you play or work only at home and want a powerful device, you should pick a desktop computer.
As a rule, a laptop is perfect for use in various places besides the office or home – for example, on a trip, on vacation, in a cafe. Since it can run on battery, you will not be dependent on the power grid for hours. The size of the laptop mostly ranges from 14 to 17 inches, which allows each user to choose the most comfortable option. Larger ones are getting too heavy.
Upgradability
As for the possibilities of upgrading, personal computers unequivocally win over laptops. A laptop can have its RAM and MHM adjusted. However, that’s it – nothing else can be upgraded usually. In addition, laptops are difficult to disassemble and assemble, which makes repairs rather costly. Learn more about this particular issue, if you need expert help with one of your devices – some pros charge rather fairly compared to others.
So, in this matter, a desktop computer has significant advantages:
- All peripherals are replaced very easily in a matter of minutes.
- Upgrading does not cause special difficulties, just make sure that the components are compatible with each other. To get access to all the components of the computer, you only need to remove the cover of the system unit.
- You can replace anything from RAM and your cooling system all the way to the case and power wires.
- In addition, desktop computers can be easily customized.
Cost
A few years ago, the prices of computer components jumped due to the cryptocurrency boom and the pandemic, which caused a shortage of graphics cards. Also, new cryptocurrencies affected the cost of data storage. Now that the hype around mining has subsided, graphics cards have become more affordable.
At the same time, the cost of laptops has remained relatively stable, and today it can be even easier and cheaper to buy a gaming laptop than to build a PC yourself. However, if you prefer a desktop PC, the market offers a wide range of ready-made systems to suit all tastes and budgets.
Conclusion
Choosing between a laptop and a desktop computer, be sure to take into account your work tasks, gaming habits, and general activity patterns, as well as the peculiarities of the use of future equipment. Depending on the goals and tasks set for it, as well as your own lifestyle and requirements for convenience, you will be able to choose the right option – a portable computer or a stationary one.
