Choosing Between a Laptop or Desktop Computer

Choosing Between a Laptop or Desktop Computer

If you’re in the market for a new computer, you may be trying to choose between buying a laptop or desktop.

Before you decide to purchase either, have a look at this list of factors to consider.

Portability

If you need a computer that can easily be transported from one location to the next, there is no contest between a laptop or desktop; you obviously need a laptop.

This is especially true when you consider weight.

Cost

For the same money you would spend on a laptop, you could get much a more powerful desktop computer.

Or, if you are working within the constraints of a limited budget, you could get a functional desktop for far less money than a laptop.

Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, choosing a laptop or desktop is close to a draw.

Sure, a desktop is virtually always in a location that gets internet access. But thanks to wireless cards, you can get internet connectivity from a number of different locations.

Space

A desktop computer will take up more space than a laptop. If you do not have a desk, or a proper place to set up a desktop computer, you would be best to choose a laptop.

Ports & Drives

Few laptops are made with CD-ROM drives anymore, although this may not be an issue for you. A laptop is also likely to have less ports. If functionality and flexibility is an issue, a desktop computer is best for you.

Screen Size

What will you be using your new computer for?

If it is simply intended for word processing and web browsing, a laptop may do the trick. A 15″ or 17″ screen would be adequate. In fact, you could even choose a smaller netbook option and still perform those operations.

If, however, you intend to work with larger video files, do any kind of design work, or play games, it is easier to connect one, two, or even three different high resolution monitors to a desktop.

Granted, you could connect a monitor to a laptop, but that would eliminate the key benefit of portability.

Comfort

If ergonomics are a factor, it will be much more comfortable to work on a desktop than a laptop.

You can easily position its keyboard, monitor, and mouse to be more comfortable.

Laptops, on the other hand, vary significantly in terms of their keyboard layouts and trackpads.

Furthermore, it can be difficult to set up your laptop in such a position that you can comfortably view the monitor while typing… unless, of course, you intend to use it at a desk.

Accidents

Since laptops tend to be transported more often than desktops, they are more prone drops, spills, and other accidents. If you are the clumsy type, it might be best to stick with a desktop computer.

Upgrades

When choosing between a laptop or desktop, give some thought to long-term use. It is much easier to upgrade hardware components in a desktop than a laptop.

The same goes for repairing or replacing particular parts.

Theft

A laptop is much more likely to get stolen than a desktop computer.

Laptop or Desktop – Which One Wins?

When it comes to space and portability, laptops definitely win. If you are working within a very small space, or you often need to take your computer with you, choose a laptop.

In virtually every other scenario, desktop computers are the better choice.

Just don’t forget to have any upgrades or maintenance performed by Target PC Repair!

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