How to Decide Between a Laptop and a Desktop

When deciding between a laptop and a desktop computer, weigh your computing needs against the benefits of each type.

Things You'll Need

• Desktop Computers
• Laptop Computer

Instructions

1. Determine if you really need to take your computer around with you (you go on many business trips, for example). If so, buy a laptop computer.

2. Determine if you have a slight need for portability, or if lack of space is a concern. If so, consider one of the new "slim-top" or "slim-line" desktop computers.

3. Expect to get much more speed and functionality from a desktop computer, for the same price as a laptop.

4. Expect more expensive and frequent repairs with a laptop computer.

5. Buy a desktop computer if you'll be working with graphics or multimedia or playing action games, as laptop screens are small and low-resolution.

6. Choose a desktop computer if you need upgradability.

Tips & Warnings

• Unless you're a student, buy a laptop only if it will supplement a desktop computer. A laptop is difficult to work on for extended periods of time because of the small screen and small keyboard.

• Expect a laptop to have considerably higher resale value than a desktop.

• At the same clock speed, laptop processors are slower than desktop processors.