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Jun 16, 2024 · What Is The Difference Between A Laptop And Desktop? Pros And Cons Of Laptops And Desktops; Which Is Better? Laptops Or Desktop Computers; Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
May 4, 2022 · PC vs laptop – which is better and what are the differences? Looking to buy a new computer? We highlight the best features of both a desktop PC and laptop to help you choose between the two
- Overview
- Differences between laptop vs desktop
- The argument for a laptop
- The argument for a desktop
- What's the best choice?
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Versus
By Kim Key
Contributions from
Allisa James
last updated 21 July 2023
We pit laptop vs desktop to see which is right for you
A desktop PC is a static, stationary computer that will stay on a desk in an office or bedroom. It usually consists of various parts: a tower, a monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse. PCs are generally more customizable than laptops as well. You can put together top-of-the-line parts for every aspect of the PC when you choose a desktop computer, and upgrade those components as they become outdated. This means that they last much longer than a laptop.
A laptop (also called a notebook) is a portable, all-in-one device that usually has USB inputs on the sides for optional peripherals. Laptops have a built-in screen, a built-in keyboard, a trackpad that acts as a mouse, and can vary in size. Laptops are generally limited by their size but many modern batteries are big enough to provide 12 or more hours of power before needing to recharge. However, unlike desktops, laptops are either very limited or impossible to upgrade, meaning that they last for a much shorter period of time than a desktop.
A laptop is the best option for students who are going to school outside of the home every day and need a computer for classes. While laptops are more delicate than desktop PCs, you can now find rugged laptops that will take a fall or two without being destroyed. And unlike a desktop, a laptop can be used right out of the box with minimum setup.
Laptops are best used for productivity work like reading, word processing, streaming videos, or using social media. If you or your child wants to have the freedom to roam while using a computer, a fully charged laptop should last an entire day for working or learning.
If you want a computer with a lot of versatility, a desktop PC is for you. Desktops can store huge files and gaming ones can run the best PC games at high settings. Desktops can also be changed to fit your needs.
You can add more storage, RAM, and a better graphics card to improve your computing experience. Desktop PCs also do not run on a battery, so you can use them for longer without stopping to plug in and recharge. But you can't easily transport a desktop computer around and schools don't allow for a desktop to be set up at your desk.
Desktop PCs are great for a home-schooled or distancing-learning scenario. A desktop computer can be used during the school day for learning and word processing, and during off-hours for gaming and entertainment.
There are also all-in-one PCs, which are stylish devices where their components are built behind the screen. This means they are easier to move and set up, as you don't need to connect as many wires, and they take up less space on the desk as well. However, they are also more expensive, and not as easy to upgrade as normal desktop PCs.
If a desktop PC and a laptop have the same specifications, the general rule is the laptop will be more expensive. Top-of-the-line laptops generally have higher price points than desktop PCs and they also have all of the limitations listed above. High-end laptops are still a great investment because they can be used for gaming and streaming in addition to schoolwork.
A top-of-the-line desktop can be used more often by a distance-learning student, with a lower up-front cost for parents. Eventually, upgrading the PC can be a time-consuming and expensive process, but the initial out-of-pocket costs don't have to be sky-high.
It really boils down to the student's specific needs, as well as the overall buyer's budget. If portability isn't necessary then it's best to invest in a PC
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Notebooks vs laptops are a common comparison. Although they are similar, there are some key differences. Learn about the pros and cons of each.
- No, a notebook cannot play video games. You can try installing a few arcade games, but even then, performance will be slow, and the frame rate will...
- Yes, in terms of performance, upgradability, and lifespan, a desktop PC is much better than a laptop or notebook. Unlike a laptop or notebook, you...
- Anything that puts too much stress on the CPU, GPU, or RAM can cause the notebook to crash. Since the internal components are limited, doing more t...
- A notebook or laptop can be a good investment for 1-2 years, depending on what you plan to use it for. If you need a device for school, college, or...
Aug 6, 2024 · While the terms “laptop” and “notebook” are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences between these portable computing devices. Laptops generally offer higher performance, larger screens, and more features, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Apr 16, 2018 · Laptop Pros. They’re extremely mobile; They come with a screen, keyboard, and mouse built-in; Laptop Cons. They’re more expensive than desktops; They have to be charged; They can have issues with excessive heat; Laptops typically have a shorter lifespan
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Mar 27, 2020 · What are the pros and cons of choosing a laptop vs. a PC? 1. Portability If you frequently need to take your computer out of the house, then owning a laptop is clearly a no-brainer. We've rounded up some of the best lightweight laptops if portability is essential to you. One of our favorites is the Acer Swift 5. But many people only buy a ...
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