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Laptops vs. Desktops
Royalty Free Pixabay ImageThere are advantages and disadvantages of both laptops and
desktops. Each one has a place. Some users have a desktop in the office and use a laptop
when on the road.
Laptops
Laptop Pros
Portability!, The 'cool' factor!, laptops have built-in wireless networking as a
standard feature. They're usually lightweight and can go anywhere. Laptops take less
space.
Laptop Cons
More expensive when comparing to a desktop with similar
features, somewhat slower than desktops. Most laptops are not very expandable beyond
memory and drive upgrades. They are harder to service because they must be taken apart
and contain a much larger number of proprietary components. Gaming laptops are quite
heavy, expensive and tend to need maintenance much more frequently.
Desktops
Desktop Pros
A desktop is less expensive when comparing to a laptop with similar features.
Typically faster than laptops, most are expandable, very easy to service, fewer proprietary
parts. Many off the shelf components can be used. Custom built desktops are the easiest of
all to service as all components are off the shelf.
Desktop Cons
Lack of portability, wireless networking is not always standard. Sometimes it
must be added separately. Desktops tend NOT to be portable with a few exceptions. You'll
need some sort of a desk.
Other Considerations
Laptop Processors
Processors are designed for desktops first. There is less in the way of space
constraints and cooling is easier. It takes the chip manufacturer longer to develop a
smaller, lower power version to fit a laptop. The laptop equivalent will be slower.
Laptop Power Consumption
Slower CPU's run on lower voltages which can lengthen the battery life of the
laptop. Faster CPU's consume more power but reduce battery life. It's a trade off. The speed
of the CPU also helps determine the price. This is not a factor for desktops as they plug
into the wall.
Whats Included?
Some desktops come with a mouse and keyboard in the box. Others do not. Monitors
and printers are always separate because everyone wants something different.
Laptops come with the charger. That's it.
Both Laptops and Desktops will come with what I call 'bloatware'. These are all the programs
you don't need and probably don't even want. Some of these will slow down your computer and
should be removed.
Summary
Typically you can spend quite a bit more money for a laptop with 70%-80% of the
speed of an equivalent desktop. Get a laptop if you want portability. Get a desktop if you
want expandability.
Meyer Computer Consulting typically sells both Hewlett Packard Business Desktops
and Business laptops. Other brands are available. The HP business line is designed to be
easier to maintain and have higher parts availability.
Custom built computers are also an option. Click here for CUSTOM
DESKTOPS
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