Channel Button

There are 97 articles on this title. You are reading the article ranked and rated #17 by Helium's members.

Debate_icon

Computers & Technology   >

Computer Buying Tips

If you only have one computer, should you choose a desktop or a laptop?

Results so far:

Desktop
42% 421 votes Total: 1011 votes
Laptop
58% 590 votes

I grew up with desktop computers, from the days when desktops took up the whole desk. When the laptop computer started to emerge as a viable option, I somehow knew that someday I would want to go that route. Until recently we had a desktop in our home, but we now do all our computing on laptop computers that get the Internet through our wireless network. I love using a laptop but I also recognize that there are pros and cons to the laptop. Here are some thoughts on choosing a desktop or a laptop computer.

DESKTOP

The best thing about the desktop is that they are almost always cheaper. You can get a bigger monitor, more hard disk space, more RAM, and more features for the price. This is because the manufacturer does not have to cram all the technology into a little box. Therefore, if you have to save money, you want to go with a desktop. If you are the type of person who doesn't need computer mobility, then a desktop might also be the right choice. Also, the desktop is going to be more durable and probably last longer because it is going to sit in one place. One doesn't exactly pick up the desktop and go wandering around with it.

LAPTOP

Laptops are more expensive and there is always the chance that it will get dropped or someone will walk off with it. Oftentimes it makes sense to back up the data on a laptop more often than a desktop. However, it is a wonderful thing to be mobile and have the ability to pick up your computer and go anywhere. I enjoy the fact that I can write everywhere I go and not have to take a notepad along. In addition, the computer has become a common player for music and movies. Therefore, you can take movies and music to various places in the house or on the road. Also, you can take your laptop and sit anywhere in the house, including a table or a comfortable chair. It helps keep people connected within the house as well because one person isn't stuck in the "computer" room.

Overall, both types of computers have their advantages and disadvantages. When making a selection, a person has to consider cost, functionality, and lifestyle. Both will offer different combinations of features and options. Happy computing!

Learn more about this author, Todd Pheifer.
Contact this writer Click here to send author comments or questions.


Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:

If you only have one computer, should you choose a desktop or a laptop?

Laptop
  • 1 of 58

    by Kay Andrews

    The answer depends on your life style and usage. Today, the computing power in a laptop and desktop are comparable. ...read more

  • 2 of 58

    by Dylan Peterson

    Well to be honest it all depends on what you want your new computer for. If you need a good computer for a relatively...read more

Desktop
  • 1 of 39

    by Jeremy Jameson

    The question depends more than anything on how you plan to use your computer. While I chose the desktop side of this...read more

  • 2 of 39

    by Joe V.

    There are several reasons why I feel that a desktop is a better computer to have. 1. Price Due to the size and ...read more

Add your voice

Know something about If you only have one computer, should you choose a desktop or a laptop??
We want to hear your view. Write_penWrite now!

91914

Featured Partner

Northwoods Wildlife Center

Northwoods Wildlife Center has partnered with Helium, giving you the chance to write for a cause. Browse Northwo...more

What is Helium? | User Guide | Community | Link to Helium | Privacy | User agreement | DMCA

Helium, Inc.
200 Brickstone Square Andover, MA 01810 USA