- Laptop computers come in a variety of configurations and exist in the same general performance spectrum as desktop computers. Most normal components of a laptop, including the CPU, motherboard, graphics board and hard drives, must be manufactured differently than their desktop equivalents and are required to be able to do the same amount of work with less space and less power. Because of this, laptop computers will normally be more expensive than equivalent desktop systems due to the higher expense of manufacturing.
- Three factors affect the price of a laptop computer: the specifications, the weight and the size of the screen. Specifications include CPU speed and number of cores, amount and speed of RAM and amount of storage space. Higher numbers on all of these will mean better performance and a higher price. Lighter and thinner laptops will be more expensive, and the bigger the screen the higher the price. At the other end of the spectrum are netbooks, a low-priced variety of laptop meant to only address the basic needs of web surfing and word processing. These low-end laptops have little memory, little storage, don't run very fast, and have small screens, but are gaining popularity because of their low price and high utility.
- A laptop computer is portable and has accessible ports, which makes it perfect for students and businesspeople who need to use a computer while on the move and may also need to make presentations or share files while away from their home. They have lower power and space requirements than desktops, thus conserving electricity and space while accomplishing the same work. Since a laptop is a complete computer, you aren't dependent on peripherals like mice, keyboards and monitors, which means fewer things to fail.
- Laptop computers are difficult to repair, upgrade or modify due to their closed and integrated design. While storage drives and RAM are usually accessible because these are the things you will most likely upgrade, it is often difficult to modify or replace your CPU, graphics chip or motherboard. These jobs will usually require professional equipment and tools--or a hired professional technician. Additionally, while in a desktop computer the possible configurations are almost unlimited, laptop configurations are limited to those provided by laptop manufacturers. Some software may also be incompatible with laptop hardware, and installations of different operating systems than those bundled with the laptop may result in hardware failures.
- While privacy is always an issue with computers, the portable nature of laptops increases the vulnerability of your data. Special features, such as thumbprint identification locks, increased encryption and remote security features have been developed that can help protect your data, but be aware that no defense is perfect. If your laptop is going to leave the house, always remember to create a login account and password to protect your data.
