When considering buying a new computer, many people wonder: should I buy a desktop or laptop? I buy over a hundred computers a year for my clients and they often ask me the same question. In this article I will share with you the same advice that I give to my clients.
Cost considerations
Laptops are generally more expensive than desktops. A similarly equipped laptop will cost at least 25% more initially, but the lifespan of an average laptop is generally shorter than the lifespan of an average desktop. Admit it: laptops are fragile, and the inevitable bumps and bruises eventually take their toll. The bottom line is that laptop portability comes at a premium.
Some people create a “home space” for their laptops, which include accessories and peripherals such as an external monitor, keyboard, mouse, scanner, and / or printer. If you can afford it, this scenario offers you the best of both worlds.
Velocity
Laptops, in general, are slower than desktops. There are many factors that go into the speed of a computer, and obviously some laptops are faster than some desktops. However, in general terms:
– Laptops are designed to run on battery power. Its components start to shut down after brief periods of inactivity, and it takes time for them to come back to life.
– All laptop hard drives except high end ones are 5400 rpm, while entry level desktop hard drives are 7200 rpm. More RPMS means more speed, but it also requires more power.
– Notebook processors consume much less power … and therefore cannot perform as many operations in the same amount of time as a desktop processor.
DO YOU NEED Portability?
If you don’t need the portability, get a desktop computer. I have clients who paid big bucks for a high dollar value laptop, docking station, keyboard, mouse, and monitor separate … just to have them on their desk. Maybe portability for you means you like to sit on the couch at night and surf the web, that’s fine. (I do it myself!) But if your computer isn’t going to move, save money and get a faster computer – buy a desktop computer.
Ergonomics
Due to the very nature of laptops, they often don’t offer as good ergonomics as desktop machines. If you spend a lot of time on your computer and plan to buy a laptop, you may need to create a space with good ergonomics to work. There are many resources on the web to help you do this, just Google ergonomics.
Stole
Another consideration is the possibility of theft. Laptops are at the top of the petty thief list, and you need to protect them carefully when you’re out and about. Theft recovery systems like Lojack are available to help you get your computer back in the event of theft, for a price.
Resume
The decision to buy a laptop or desktop is an important one. Carefully consider your budget and the other points discussed above, and then make the right decision for you. Once you have your new computer, visit my website for lots of other great information on how to keep it running fast and smooth.