Choosing between laptop and desktop isn't just about portability and price. If you're currently unsure whether to buy a desktop or laptop, here are things to consider before buying.
Laptop and desktop components are not the same (despite being the same brand)
At first glance, laptops and desktops may seem to offer similar components, especially when the manufacturers use the same brands. For example, CPUs on both types of PCs may fall under the same label, like Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 (even more so after Intel rebranded Core Ultra CPUs) or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, and 7. Likewise, GPUs are often marketed under the same Nvidia RTX brand, such as the RTX 3060, 3070, or 4070.
However, Intel Core i3 on laptops is not the same as Core i3 on desktop. Desktop components are often much more powerful due to their larger size, allowing for more transistors and better cooling systems. This performance gap also applies to the GPU – the desktop version is designed to handle higher workloads than the laptop version.
Similar terminology is used because manufacturers want to differentiate product levels within each market segment. However, these labels do not imply equal performance. Components on laptops and desktops serve different use cases and should not be directly compared.
Understanding these differences is important. A laptop with a high-end CPU will not be able to match the performance of a desktop CPU of the same level. Desktop is always a better choice if you need maximum performance.
But this doesn't necessarily mean the laptop isn't capable of computing for your workload. Many laptops can be used for AAA gaming, video editing, and even virtualization and emulation.
Think about future upgrades from the start
Modern laptops, especially thin and light ones, come with soldered RAM and SSDs that are more difficult to upgrade. This eventually causes you to have to exchange your laptop and pay more to buy another one with better specifications.
If you're buying a laptop, always check to see if it's upgradeable. Many thin and light laptops, such as those running Apple's M Series chips, have soldered RAM and SSDs, leaving you little room for upgrades. Most gaming laptops have the option to upgrade RAM and SSD. If you decide to buy a laptop that cannot be upgraded, buy one with a more powerful configuration.
In contrast, desktops usually do not encounter these problems. The only limitation you have to check is the motherboard. Some motherboards are more upgradeable than others. If you want your desktop to last even longer, choose a motherboard that uses the latest standards. There are several standard motherboard sizes. In general, the larger the motherboard, the better the upgradeability. So for the best upgradeability, buy an EATX or ATX motherboard and avoid micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards.
Desktops are not necessarily cheaper than laptops
When comparing price and performance between laptops and desktops, it's easy to assume that desktops are much cheaper. However, unlike laptops, many of us forget that desktops also need peripherals to use. At the very least, you have to buy a mouse, keyboard, headphones/speakers, and a monitor. And depending on the quality of the computer peripherals you buy, the computer may be more expensive.
Of course, computer peripherals aren't necessarily just for desktops. While you can use your laptop as an all-in-one device, many people also buy similar computer peripherals for their laptops. Sometimes, laptop users can spend more money on peripherals. After all, they need a docking station to have more ports, an external hard drive to store more files, or even an external GPU to play GPU-intensive games. The good thing about laptops is that you don't need to buy peripherals right away, while with desktops, it's a must.
So, before deciding to buy a laptop or desktop, make sure to consider the cost of the peripherals you need and check whether the total amount is within your budget.
Ergonomics make a bigger difference than expected
Don't underestimate the importance of ergonomics in your computing experience! Poor ergonomics can lead to reduced performance, whether for work or gaming. Desktop allows separate screen, keyboard and mouse height adjustments. This setup allows for a more ergonomic workstation, reducing strain on the neck, back and wrists.
In contrast, laptops, with their fixed screens and keyboards, have limited adjustability and can lead to poor posture. Consider ergonomics an essential factor before deciding to buy a laptop or desktop, especially if you spend many hours at the computer. Also, remember that, with the right accessories and peripherals, a laptop can provide the same level of comfort as a desktop. Just keep in mind that you'll also have to pay for ergonomics.
The gate is an extremely important factor to consider
You'll quickly realize that today's laptops don't have enough ports! You can connect a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, but there are no ports for a USB drive or a secondary display.
Many laptops today only offer two USB ports, one HDMI port, and maybe a 3.5mm audio port. If you want to use your laptop with computer peripherals, be sure to also consider the type and number of ports you need. If you're thinking about purchasing a USB Hub or dock to overcome your laptop's lack of ports, make sure your laptop supports one of the latest versions of Thunderbolt. Using a USB dock or hub on a USB-C or regular port may affect USB performance.
Although this is a common problem among laptop users, desktop users can also encounter this type of problem, especially if they want to use a full range of computer peripherals and accessories. Since desktops are often used as work/gaming devices, they are often connected to more peripherals, such as printers, external hard drives, AR and VR headsets, audio interfaces, web cameras and multiple screens. Just because desktops often have more ports doesn't mean they can support all of your peripherals.
With that said, most people won't take full advantage of the desktop's ports. So, if your application involves connecting multiple devices, then choosing a desktop expansion port will be a more convenient choice. However, if portability is a top priority, be prepared to invest in an adapter or docking station for your laptop.
Choosing between laptop and desktop isn't just about portability and price. Pay closer attention to component differences, upgradeability, and total cost, including peripherals, ergonomics, and port availability. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a computer that meets your current needs and adapts to future requirements.
