So you’ve decided it’s time to join the technology craze and buy a personal computer! These days most people have a personal computer at home and many people own laptop or other portable models as well. If you’re trying to decide between a desktop or a laptop it helps to examine the pros and cons of each and then make an informed decision based on your own needs. However there are so many different options to choose from that you may find it difficult to decide if you want a desktop computer, a laptop or both. It may seem impossible to decide between a desktop and a laptop computer, since they both have so many great benefits.
Depending on your budget you may only be able to afford one computer so which one should you pick?
On the one hand a desktop is more affordable, easier to work on and harder to steal (!) but laptop models make running your business or personal life so much easier as you can take it almost anywhere.
This means you can read your e-mails at a great restaurant over coffee or work in bed if you are feeling lazy (and they’re just so stylish). Read on for some help making this difficult choice.
Desktop Computer Models
The Advantages
* Desktop computers have many advantages, one of which is that they are generally cheaper to buy than laptop or notebook models. The benefits of spending less money on your computer means you can buy more or better software programs like games or programs you need to run your business.
If you are trying to decide between a desktop and a laptop remember you can put your savings into buying CD’s or install a DVD player with the extra money.
* Desktop models are also easier to upgrade and cost you less to do so. Once again, more money saved = more available cash to spend on accessories.
* Many people find the size and design of a desktop model far easier to work on. Desktop design is more ergonomic. The keyboard and screen for example are larger and more user-friendly.
This is especially important if you are a graphic artist, web designer or use your computer for any other creative purpose, for example, drawing. You may find the screen size and keyboard clumsy to work with if your work is very visually oriented.
* Nobody likes to think about it, but laptop models are targets for criminals wanting to make a quick buck off your precious merchandise. If you buy a desktop you can rest assured knowing your hard work is not likely to vanish while you get a cup of coffee or pop in to the ATM.
A desktop computer is as safe as your home, so if you have an adequate security system installed you can be pretty sure it will be there when you get home. Once you consider the ramifications of losing all your data it may be easy to decide between a desktop or a laptop.
* Now for the nitty gritty – Your desktop model is likely to process data about 20% to 30% faster than a laptop! So if your work is time sensitive, you are often rushed or are just impatient this is a big plus. Likewise, if you work with graphics, web pages or music files you are going to really appreciate that extra speed.
* Desktop models are ideal for entertainment applications like games and other intensive computer tasks. They are stationery so your hardware like printers, modems and game consoles can all be left in one place making desktops ultra-convenient. Their faster processor speed means you can do time sapping tasks far quicker than you could with a laptop or notebook.
The Disadvantages of A Desktop Computer
* Obviously desktop computers aren’t mobile and if your work takes you out and about on a regular basis or you deal with client files or correspondence on site, a desktop model may not be very useful to you. Needing to be mobile can help the choice between a desktop or a laptop become child’s play – you just can’t take a desktop on the subway!
* They do take up a lot of space and if you won’t be using a printer, gaming devices or other hardware then a laptop may be a better choice (especially if space is limited.
The Advantages Of a Notebook Computer
* Laptop computers are completely mobile. You can take them anywhere and work in any environment. This may save you a considerable amount of time or inconvenience, especially if you need to consult documentation for clients you visit or are on the road a lot, for example sales representatives or other social workers.
* Your laptop or notebook will take up very little space in your home or office so you can set up docking stations at your office and download information at will without creating a clumsy working environment.
* If you are a student you can use your laptop in a classroom or do research in a library with ease. Most students trying to decide between a desktop or a laptop ultimately go with mobility.
The Disadvantages
* If you are trying to decide between a desktop or a laptop, price may be an important factor. Laptop computers are generally more expensive so if you know you are going to need quite a few accessories and expensive software you may want to trade in the convenience for a desktop computer that will actually provide you with features you can really use.
In the end it is your software that determines how useful your personal computer will be to you so if you are on a budget you may need to compromise on mobility.
* Another disadvantage of laptops is that they are generally slower than laptops (by 20% to 30%) so if you know you are going to need the edge of a faster processing, a desktop computer may be a better choice. If you are an avid gamer, want to watch DVD’s or surf the web often choose a desktop model.
* Laptops can be more difficult to upgrade or repair due to their small size.
* You may think that a laptop seems pretty glamorous but do you really want to lug it around all day. You may spend more time worrying that it might get stolen than actually making use of it.
* A laptop is always at risk of being bumped, dropped or being damaged by a clumsy guy with a hot cup of coffee. You may really love the fact that you can read your e-mails in the park – until, that is, you get caught in a flash rainstorm!
* Laptops and notebooks are always targets for thieves. Do you really want to worry about ‘your baby’ all the time? If you can’t decide between a desktop or a laptop think of how stressful this could be.
Ultimately, what you are going to be doing with your computer is usually the deciding factor. As we have already mentioned, labor intensive tasks and uses that require a faster processing speed like music applications, web pages and graphics will all benefit from a desktop system, especially if you need to be hooked up to a printer or fax machine.
However, if you don’t mind carrying your computer around with you, aren’t worried about safety, don’t use printer or game features very often and need instant access to your data a laptop would suit you better.
Laptops may be a really good choice for students. If your school or university allows notebook computers in the classroom and has wireless Internet, then you should probably buy a notebook or laptop computer.
Think carefully before you decide between a desktop or a laptop computer and be practical in your decision making. Remember, you want your system to really work for you. A good personal computer should make your business or personal life more efficient, it isn’t there to just look good. If you really feel you can’t decide between a desktop or a laptop system, ask around and see if your can arrange to borrow a laptop or notebook from a friend for a week or two and ditto for a desktop system. This will give you a better feel for what you will be spending your money on and may seal the deal. Enjoy!