Both desktop and laptop computers have advantages and disadvantages. If you are trying to determine which option will best suit your needs, take a look at the advantages and benefits each of them offers.
Advantages of a desktop computer, as compared to a laptop computer:
• Desktop computers have more power and more features.
• Desktop computers are easier, and less expensive, to upgrade.
• Desktop computers are generally less expensive overall and offer a better overall value.
• Desktop computers have a more comfortable keyboard and a much easier to use mouse. It should be noted that an aftermarket large, comfortable mouse and mouse pad are also possible with a laptop.
• Desktop computers have larger monitors.
• Desktop computers are generally easier, and less expensive, to repair.
• Desktop computers have a lower risk of theft, which means less chance of losing your data and having to pay to replace your computer.
Advantages of a laptop computer, as compared to a desktop computer:
• Laptop computers are highly portable and allow you to use your computer almost anywhere.
• If you are an international student, a laptop computer will be much easier to transport from home to school and back again.
• Laptop computers take up less room on a desk or table and can be put away when not in use.
• Laptop computers have a single cord to contend with, rather than the multiple cords associated with desktop computer use.
While the list of advantages of a laptop computer may seem sparse when compared to a desktop computer, the deciding factor is portability. Being able to check email, chat online, write papers and play video games anytime, anywhere may be worth giving up power and functionality. This is particularly true if you use your computer primarily for checking email and completing schoolwork. If this is the case, you likely don’t need all of the functions and the increased power of a desktop computer. On the other hand, if you are a film student or an avid gamer, you may want to go with a desktop computer, unless you have the expendable income to purchase a high end laptop.
Essentially, the choice comes down to portability versus functionality and cost. While desktop computers are less expensive, more powerful and more user-friendly, there is a lot to be said for being able to do your homework in a coffee shop and writing term papers on the beach.
FAQs
Which is better, a laptop or a desktop PC? It depends on your needs and preferences. A laptop is better if you need portability and flexibility, while a desktop PC is better if you need more power and upgradeability.
Is a laptop or desktop better for studying? ›
Whether you choose a laptop or desktop depends mainly on what type of activities your student plans on doing while studying online. If mobility and portability are important, then go with a laptop; however, if budgeting is an issue, then sticking with a desktop might be more cost-effective in the long run.
Are laptops necessary anymore? ›
Yeah, more and more people no longer need one, but having some sort of bigger screen helps a lot, even in reading or having multiple things open at once. I'm GenZ, and I can't imagine not having a bigger screen at home, or a laptop if I'm about to do anything more than read DMs.
Why do people prefer laptops? ›
For many people, a laptop is not just used for a single reason. It can serve to be your main workstation, your entertainment zone, and a tool that you can use to communicate with your friends and family. Newer laptop models are bound to be more adept at all of these jobs.
What are the disadvantages of a desktop computer? ›
Desktop PC Cons:
- Lack of portability: Desktop PCs are not meant to be portable. ...
- Space requirements: Desktops take up a lot of space. ...
- External peripherals = extra cost: All the extra desktop peripherals like speakers, wireless keyboards/mice and monitor mounts can add up.
Most Still Have a Functioning PC
Most of the folks buying a tablet or signing up for a smart phone already have a desktop that allows them to do their taxes, create and print documents, scan, surf the Web and more. Even those that don't have a computer aren't as limited as they once were.
Can a laptop do everything a desktop can? ›
Most laptops are designed to have all of the functionality of a desktop computer, which means they can generally run the same software and open the same types of files. However, laptops also tend to be more expensive than comparable desktop computers. Watch the video below to learn about laptop computers.
What are the 10 disadvantages of a laptop? ›
They offer many advantages, including portability, convenience, improved Performance, battery life, and ergonomics. However, they also have disadvantages, including price, limited upgradeability, screen size, overheating, and battery life degradation.
Why laptop is better than desktop for students? ›
Laptop computers are highly portable and allow you to use your computer almost anywhere. If you are an international student, a laptop computer will be much easier to transport from home to school and back again. Laptop computers take up less room on a desk or table and can be put away when not in use.
How long before laptop is obsolete? ›
What is the average lifespan of a laptop? The same concerns apply to laptops. Most experts estimate a laptop's lifespan to be three to five years. It may survive longer than that, but its utility will be limited as the components become less capable of running advanced applications.
Typically, desktop computers provide access to more powerful components than a laptop at a more affordable price. Plus, with a dedicated monitor, you'll likely have a higher resolution, faster refresh rates and a wider choice of technology, in general.
Are laptops declining? ›
The latest Canalys data reveals that the worldwide PC market decline slowed in Q2 2023, with total shipments of desktops and notebooks down 11.5% year on year to 62.1 million units. This follows two consecutive quarters where shipments declined by over 30%.
What are the disadvantages of a laptop? ›
Laptops are more susceptible to damage than desktop PCs. As an illustration, laptops routinely drop, tip over in the rain, get sat on, etc. The entire situation leads to the device's malfunction.
What are the pros and cons of laptop computers? ›
Laptops give freedom but may cost more in the long run. Desktops generally offer better power at a friendlier price and are easier to upgrade. Whatever choice you make, it'll shape how you work, play, and create in your digital world.
What are the disadvantages of a 2 in 1 laptop? ›
Disadvantages of having a convertible laptop
The keyboard has smaller keys, which can make it more of a challenge to type. As for processing power, a convertible laptop has more than a tablet but less than a traditional laptop, so if you need a lot of hard drive space it'd be worth looking elsewhere for your needs.
Which lasts longer desktop or laptop? ›
Which lasts longer, a laptop or desktop computer? Desktop computers generally last longer than laptops. A laptop's lifespan is generally reckoned to be around three to five years, compared to a desktop computer's lifespan of around five to eight years.
What is the best type of computer for home use? ›
The best desktop computers for 2024
- Best Windows desktop PC: Dell XPS Desktop.
- Best Apple iMac: iMac with 24" Retina Display.
- Best budget Windows PC: Acer Aspire TC-1770-UR11.
- Best Windows desktop PC for gaming: Corsair Vengeance i8200 Series.
- Best all-in-one Windows desktop PC: Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i Gen 9.
Desktops tend to run faster than laptops; and more expensive PCs tend to run faster. But how much faster are bigger or more expensive PCs?
Advantages of a desktop computer, as compared to a laptop computer: 
