Did you know that there are likely to be over 2 million computers in use this year?
If you’re thinking about buying a new computer, there are tons of decisions you’ll need to make. How much memory do you need? Which brand will work best for you?
But the biggest question by far is whether to go laptop or desktop, and it’s one that has been baffling people around the world for years. Both have plenty of benefits, so making the decision is hard! Luckily, we’re here to help.
Here’s our guide to help you choose between a laptop or desktop computer. Laptop Advantages
The first thing to do when working out should I get a laptop or desktop? is to weigh up the pros and cons. Let’s start with the advantages of laptops.
Portable
There’s no doubt that the biggest advantage of a laptop is the fact that it’s portable. If you need to work from multiple locations, are taking your computer to school, or travel a lot, a laptop is a no-brainer! Even if you don’t move your laptop from your home, it can be nice being able to move rooms or switch from the desk to the couch and carrying on working.
For a very portable option that’s ideal for students, check out this SmartBook.
Use Less Room
If you have a small home or a teenager in need of a computer who hasn’t got the biggest bedroom, a laptop is definitely the better choice. Laptops are much smaller than desktops and are made up of just one part, compared to the desktop which has a screen, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. When not in use, you can just slide your laptop under your bed or in your bag, which you definitely can’t with a desktop computer!
Take a look around your space. If you can’t see a good, permanent spot for a desktop computer then the decision is easy; opt for a laptop.
Less Power
If you’re eco-conscious or looking to save money on your energy bills, you’re probably going to favor the laptop. This is because a laptop actually uses a lot less power than a desktop computer. The smaller parts need less energy to run, helping you cut back on electricity every day!
Child and Animal Friendly
If you’ve ever had a desktop computer, you’ll know that there are a fair few wires to deal with. If you have little children or animals around, these can be a pain! From little teeth nibbling at the wires to creating a fall hazard, it isn’t ideal.
But, with a laptop, you just have a single charge which doesn’t always need to be in use. This is much safer if you have small kids or playful animals running around!
Desktop Advantages
Now we’ve looked at the best laptop benefits, it’s time to look at desktop advantages. To properly weigh up which is better: laptop or desktop? it’s essential to look at both sides.
Better Performance
If you compare a desktop with a laptop, it’s likely that the desktop will have better specs and be able to outperform the laptop fairly easily. The truth of the matter is that laptops are smaller and so the components they use are smaller too, and that means they’re less powerful. The equivalent components in a desktop are going to be bigger and work much better.
More for Your Money
If you’re wondering should I buy a laptop or desktop? and you’re on a budget, opt for a desktop if you can. You’ll be able to get a lot more bang for your buck! Laptops are generally far more expensive and for just a few hundred dollars you can buy a desktop that will perform incredibly well.
Build Your Own Desktop
If you’re really into computing and want a computer that’s exactly what you need, you can upgrade a desktop. From buying better performing components to switching up the keyboard, it’s fairly easy to personalize your desktop to suit your needs. Even if you can’t upgrade the components yourself, a computer technician should be able to do it for you at a good price!
Laptops, on the other hand, can’t be upgraded so easily.
Better for Gaming
If you’re picking between a gaming laptop or desktop, a desktop is usually the better option. First of all, you can upgrade it as mentioned above to suit your gaming needs. There’s also the fact that desktops generally have better graphics, whilst most laptops use integrated graphics which just aren’t quite good enough for gaming.
Laptop or Desktop: Which Should You Buy?
If you’re choosing between a laptop or desktop, the decision comes down to whether you need a laptop. If you’re going to be traveling with your computer a lot, such as if you’re a student, or don’t have enough space for a desktop, choose a laptop. But otherwise, a desktop is the better choice.
A desktop is going to perform better for less money and be far more reliable than a laptop, especially if you’re on a budget! If you’re in a risky area where break-ins are common, it may also be good to remember that desktops are much easier to steal than laptops.
Find the Right Option for You
Whether you choose a laptop or desktop, make sure you do plenty of research to make sure you find the computer that’s right for you! Check out reviews, look at the specifications, and talk to an expert if you need some extra help.
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