Did you know that the average person spends almost 4 hours a day staring at a computer screen? If you’re an avid computer user, and you need a new computer, deciding between a laptop vs. desktop computer can be tricky.
Thankfully, breaking down the pros and cons of desktop and laptop computers is rather easy. And once you know those pros and cons, you can make the right decision for you.
In this article, we’ll tell you how to choose a computer that you’ll enjoy for years to come. We’ll clearly breakdown the pros and cons of laptop and desktop computers, so you can decide which option best suits your needs.
Now then, let’s get started.
The Pros of Laptop Computers
When it comes to the pros of laptop computers, a few items on the list are rather obvious. With that being said, there are a few pros that you might not have thought of that could end up swaying your decision.
Below we’ve broken down the three biggest pros of going with a laptop computer. We’ve elaborated on each pro, too, so you can get a better idea of how they affect you and your personal computer needs.
1. The Portability Factor
It goes without saying, but the biggest reason to own a laptop computer is the ability to take it with you wherever you go. That portability factor is something that desktop computers simply can’t compete with, no matter how small or compact they are.
If you’re someone who travels a lot, a laptop is most likely a must-have. That being said, even if you don’t travel, being able to move your laptop from one room in your house to another without a hassle is a huge plus.
That portability option can make working at home, or watching movies in bed, that much easier.
2. Saving Space in Your Home
While desktop computers have gotten smaller and more compact over the years, they’re still much larger than even the biggest laptop. So, if you live in a smaller apartment, or don’t have a big home office, a desktop computer might not be the best option for you.
Keep in mind, you can always set a laptop computer on a desk and keep it there. You can use it just like you’d use a desktop computer while saving space on your desktop in the process.
Should you decide to do so, you can take your computer with you and get some work done on the couch while you watch TV. The same option can’t be said for desktop computers, which is another point worth noting.
3. Unique Features and Benefits
Because laptops are becoming so advanced, there are some unique features and benefits to owning certain models that are worth mentioning. 2-in-1 laptops, or laptops that convert to tablets, are especially popular.
These laptops are great for students or creators, as they make it easy to take notes in class or create graphics using a tablet’s touchscreen.
There are even some laptops that look like a tablet, but bend in half, so you can get the traditional laptop shape, complete with a keyboard. These options aren’t available if you go the desktop route, so keep that in mind when browsing for 2-in-1 models online.
The Cons of Laptop Computers
Of course, owning a laptop computer isn’t without risk or issues. There are a few cons to keep in mind before you decide to buy a laptop computer, too.
With that in mind, a few of these cons can be avoided if you’re careful and do a good job of protecting your laptop.
1. The Price Tag
We’ll be honest. When comparing basic computer specs, like RAM and hard drive size, you’re going to pay more for a laptop than a desktop with similar specs.
You can chalk up that bump in price to the portability factor, plus the need to produce smaller parts that can fit in your laptop’s case.
2. Easily Damaged
Whenever you take a laptop out with you, there’s a chance that it could be damaged in your bag. Sure, you can invest in a quality bag that better protects your laptop, but accidents happen, especially when traveling on a plane.
And an accident is even more likely to happen if your someone who takes your laptop with you wherever you go, which isn’t an issue you have to worry about when purchasing a desktop PC.
3. A Lost or Stolen Laptop
Next to damaging your laptop, the next biggest issue that you need to worry about is having your laptop stolen, or losing it while you’re traveling.
Losing your laptop is a bit easier to control, as all you need to do to avoid this issue is be careful and keep a close eye on your laptop bag. But theft can be a bit trickier to combat, which is why it’s worth noting.
The Pros of Desktop Computers
If you think you want to find a desktop computer to purchase, knowing what to expect before you make that purchase is a good idea. Much like we did with laptops, we’ve broken down the pros of owning a desktop computer below.
So, keep on reading if you think a desktop could the better purchase for you.
1. More Bang for Your Buck
When it comes to getting more bang for your buck, it’s hard to beat desktop computers. As we mentioned earlier, you’re going to pay less for a desktop computer than you would if you bought a laptop computer with the exact same specs.
If you need a powerful PC to complete demanding tasks, but you’re working on a budget, a desktop computer is the best way to go.
2. Easy to Upgrade
While it’s possible to upgrade laptop computers, it’s nowhere near as easy to do as it is with desktop computers. And because technology is always changing and evolving, the ability to upgrade your computer yourself could be a huge plus for you.
In fact, if you take care of the shell of your computer, it’s not unrealistic to expect to have your computer for more than a decade.
3. Longer Lasting Life
Because desktop computers are so easy to upgrade and are much harder to damage because they’re stationary, you can expect to have one longer than you would a laptop. So, if longevity is on your list of priorities, a desktop computer is the best way to go.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to take care of your desktop computer to make it last as long as you’d like. But because doing so is much easier than with a laptop, that shouldn’t be an issue.
The Cons of Desktop Computers
Finally, it’s time to break down the cons of desktop computers. Again, some of these cons are a given and are expected when you purchase a desktop computer.
But once you have a clear understanding of those cons, you’ll have all the information that you need to make a smart computer purchase.
1. Stationary
Perhaps the biggest con to owning a desktop computer is the fact that it’s so stationary. While it’s possible to move your computer to another room, or even take it with you when you travel, it’s not as convenient as it is for laptop owners.
Simply put, if bringing your computer with you when you’re on the go is a must, a desktop computer isn’t really an option for you.
2. Large and Loud
Because desktop computers are bigger and have bigger parts, they’re often much louder than laptops. That noise can be an issue for some, as it can be distracting and even prevent you from getting work done in your office.
Most newer, quality desktop computers are quieter than older models. But still, it’s an issue you need to research before deciding to go with a brand or model of a desktop computer.
3. Heat and Power Usage
On top of being somewhat loud, desktop computers can often be pretty hot. That heat can make a small office, or at least the area around your desk, quite warm.
That extra heat isn’t ideal in the summertime for most, especially those who live in warmer climates. You can invest in a few more fans for your computer, which will help cool it down, although it could make it louder in the process.
Still Can’t Decide Between a Laptop vs. Desktop Computer?
As you can see, a lot goes into deciding between a laptop vs. a desktop computer. With that being said, if you keep the pros and cons for each in mind, you should find that making the decision is a bit easier.
No matter what type of computer you choose, make sure you research online for the best possible deal on that particular model of computer.
Looking for more technology tips and tricks? Check back with our blog often for tons of useful information on the latest tech gadgets.
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