Many people debate over which is better, laptops or desktop computers. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. For example, a lap top is portable and can be taken anywhere and used with just battery power, but a desktop needs a set location and has to be plugged into the wall. However, this isn’t the only big difference. You must also consider performance, longevity, upgradability, cost, and convenience.
If you’re considering getting a new computer, but aren’t sure which one will work best for your needs, this article will help you make the right choice.
Laptop pro: Portability
The first thing to consider is how often you’ll need to use your laptop outside your home or office. If you only plan to travel once in a while, you should get a desktop and a laptop computer. However, if you plan on traveling significantly, a laptop will suit your needs better.
Laptop pro: Convenience
Not only are laptops easy to carry anywhere, but they’re also lightweight and can be pretty slim. This makes them easy and convenient for travel, even when you have the option of setting up a desktop when you get to your destination. Most laptops will easily slip into your carry-on luggage, and you can take them with you to coffee shops and parks.
If you work remotely, a laptop will make it possible to work from anywhere, and that’s nice if you enjoy changing scenery once in a while.
Laptop pro: Powerful performance (with the right laptop)
Today’s laptops can perform as well as desktop computers. In the past, you’d need a desktop to really get much power, but with technological advancements in hardware, like DDR5 RAM and solid-state hard drives (SSDs), some laptops are powerhouses.
However, keep in mind that not all laptops will automatically perform at a high level. If you’re using your machine for resource-intense processes, like 3D rendering and video editing, you absolutely need a powerful laptop to handle these tasks or your laptop will overheat.
Desktop Pro: High performance
With some exceptions, desktops tend to perform better than laptops because they have larger components for cooling and higher powered CPUs/GPUs. If you’re into animation, gaming, video editing, graphic design, and gaming, a desktop is ideal. Although, some gaming laptops can meet these needs as well.
Desktop pro: More upgrade options
You can only upgrade your machine to its inherent allowable capacity, and laptops tend to have fewer options for expansion.
Most laptop RAM maxes out at just 16GB, and you have to pay more for a laptop capable of expanding to 32 GB. Some laptops now come with a 1TB hard drive for a higher price, but the average capacity is just 256GB.
On the other hand, it’s easy to find desktop computers with 64GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD. With DDR5, you can even get up to 128GB of RAM. However, 64GB of DDR5 RAM will outperform 64GB of DDR3 and DDR4 RAM.
Desktop pro: Never worry about a dead battery
Laptop batteries have finite lifespans, and it’s easy to kill a battery in a short period. You never have to worry about that with a desktop computer because they work by sourcing power directly from an outlet.
Which is better for you, a laptop or a desktop?
While laptops are best suited for people who frequently travel or need to take their computer with them to a variety of places, desktops are ideal for people who want a dedicated work station in their home or office, as well as professionals who require a lot of computing power.
If you need things like dual monitors, a full keyboard, a drawing tablet for a mouse, or multiple ports without having to use hubs, then a desktop is great. However, you can also use a laptop as a desktop computer by connecting it to your monitor with an HDMI cable. This option works well for people who want a dedicated place to work, but also need to take their computer with them on their travels. When you use a laptop as your desktop, you can simply unplug it and take it with you, and then put it back in your office when you get home.
Both can cost the same – choose based on your needs
Don’t buy a computer based on price alone. First, figure out how you plan to use your computer, and then determine which type will best support your needs. You can always find great deals on laptops and desktops when it’s time to buy.
