Laptop or Desktop: Which is Better?

Laptops may have overtaken desktops as a preferred choice for most of us, but there are still plenty of us who choose to stick with the traditional computer rather than the ones which can be fold shut and put it in a bag. These people value performance over portability. Laptops although highly portable, are considered easily susceptible to damage. However, these days you can get rugged laptops that offer military grade protection. There is no clear winner between the two as the choice depends on different factors specific to each individual. Below are few points that compare desktops with laptops, providing pros and cons for each to help you make a more informed decision.

Desktop computer Vs Laptop:

• Portability – these days both heavy duty laptops as well as desktop computers have most impressive specifications. However, desktops are large in size and is difficult to take from place to place. Laptops on the other hand are portable due to their compact size and can be easily carried in a backpack or a case. 

• Component upgradation – almost all the components of a desktop system can be upgraded as and when required. At the same time, laptops can hardly be called as upgradable as most of them offer only memory and hard drive upgradation. The remaining components are not removable. 

• Flexibility of configuration – there is a lot more scope to choose from a range of components when it comes to a desktop, whereas, laptops being a more finely tuned yet compact machine, the choices in internal components are limited.

• Power usage – because of the multiple components inside a desktop computer, they have a higher watt power supply and use more power than a laptop. Without any adequate back-up, voltage fluctuations can result in loss of unsaved work in computers. 

Conclusion:

Traditionally desktop computers are more powerful than a laptop but, these days with more and more heavy duty laptops being available, they offer performances at par with the desktop systems. Although laptops are considered damage prone, rugged laptops are proof that even portable computers can be very durable. In the end, the final decision depends on your needs and requirements and how you plan to use the computer.