Laptop vs Desktop – What is the difference
The major difference between a Laptop and a Desktop is sustained performance. It is self-explanatory looking at the size of the devices, a Laptop is small, and packing a Desktop-level cooling system is impossible in it. That being said, with modern software optimization and modern chip fabrication method, Laptops can exchange blows with their much heftier counterparts. But the problem is the more you use the device, the more heat will be produced, and because of fans with low RPMs, heat dissipation wouldn’t be as effective as it should be. Therefore, your system will be subjected to thermal throttling, as a result of which, your computer’s performance will take a dip in order to counter the excessive heat production. Let us compare them to the following parameters to sort out the buying decision for you. Let’s get started.
1] Portability
A laptop is more portable than a Desktop, that’s right off the bat. With a Desktop, you need a Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, CPU (if it’s not integrated with the Monitor), and many other things. Hence, carrying it from your home to your workplace and vice-versa is not a very prudent job. Whereas in the case of a Laptop, all you need is a laptop and a power cable to charge it. So, Laptop is portable, without an iota of doubt.
2] Performance
Desktops usually perform better than a laptop. However, with the help of more advanced fabrication techniques, the gap between the performance of these devices is decreasing. But still, the sheer difference between the horsepower of these devices can not be overlooked. Desktops have bigger and more powerful CPUs as well as GPUs, the gap between their GPUs is even wider, with more powerful fans. All this combines to make a better machine for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks. That being said, most of us don’t need our computer to be a Hercules, so, know your requirements first. There are some powerful laptops as well, especially gaming laptops. These laptops are apt enough to run demanding titles and do professional-level video and photo editing.
3] Screen Size
Since laptops are smaller than desktops, they will have small monitors, which is kind of the point of having a laptop compact. Whereas, with desktops, you can go all out. So, Desktop is a winner here, hands down.
4] Cost
Now, let us address the elephant in the room, which will cost you a fortune. Long story short, Desktops can get you similar, if not better, performance at a lesser price than a laptop. However, with a desktop, you can go all out and configure them the way you want. Whereas, in the case of laptops, the variety is there but not to the extent of a desktop. They are generally more expensive, but you can find some inexpensive ones if you take the plunge into the electronics market. These parameters can give you an outline of the differences between laptops and desktops. But the requirements vary from person to person. So, let us see which is better for you depending on the work that you do. Read: Should I buy iPad or a laptop? Benefits of both discussed
Desktop vs Laptop – For Gaming
If gaming is what you are planning to do on your device, then I do not say Desktop; straightaway, like most other blogs on the Internet, do. That’s because there are some capable laptops for gamers as well. Gaming Laptops are a thing now. Companies like Alienware, Dell, Lenovo, and Asus have really taken the gaming market by a storm by not just acing the gaming Desktops but also compressing them and making a powerful machine in a form factor of a laptop. Yes, desktops are obviously more powerful, but there are some capable gaming laptops for you to try.
Desktop vs Laptop – Which is better for students
For a student, Laptop is a better option as it is portable and you can carry it around the campus with ease. However, there are different kinds of laptops in the market, but in my opinion, you should go for a notebook instead of a gaming laptop. That’s because they are lightweight and won’t hurt your back. However, if you already have a laptop and want something for your home, then I think a Desktop can be a good purchase. Read: Chromebook vs Laptop – What are the differences?
Final Verdict
Both Desktops and Laptops can be extremely powerful, given you go for higher-end ones. However, with a desktop, you can get sustained power and more power than a laptop at a similar price. But laptops are portable and are better for most people.
