When it comes to choosing a desktop computer, there are two main options: laptops and PCs. In 2021, the computer industry reached a staggering $161.93 billion. So it’s safe to say you have an ocean of options from which to choose. However, it can still get confusing to choose one over the other. Here you’ll learn the pros and cons of both options so you can make the best decision for your needs.
What to consider when choosing a laptop or PC
Laptop or PC—you can’t go wrong with either one. But overall, you’ll need to think about these three considerations:
- Purpose: What will you be using the computer for? If you need a machine that can handle heavy-duty tasks like video editing or programming, then you’ll need a PC. If you just need a basic machine for browsing the internet and checking email, then a laptop will suffice.
- Portability: Do you need a computer that you can take with you on the go, or are you fine with a desktop model that stays in one place? Laptops are more portable, but they are also more expensive. Laptops are lighter than PCs on average (minus the other peripherals), so that’s another thing to think about when travelling with your computer often.
- Price: Speaking of price, laptops and PCs can vary widely in cost. You can get a decent laptop for around $500, while a high-end PC can easily cost $1,000 or more.
Now that you know what to consider when choosing between a laptop and a PC, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each option.
The pros and cons of laptops
Laptops have several advantages over PCs:
- Purpose: Laptops are great for a variety of purposes, from gaming to editing videos. However, for heavier purposes, you might want to get an ultrabook, which might cost you a bit more than the standard laptops.
- Portability: Laptops are small and lightweight, making them easy to take with you on the go. They also come with built-in batteries, so you can work or play for hours without having to find an outlet. With a laptop, you can set up shop just about anywhere. Whether you’re working from a coffee shop or traveling on a plane, laptops make it easy to stay connected and productive.
- Performance: Laptops are not as powerful as PCs, so they may not
- Price: You can find some great deals on laptops, especially if you’re willing to sacrifice some features like a large display or a powerful processor. Remember, sacrificing display and processor power for price can limit what you can do on these systems.
However, laptops aren’t without their disadvantages, which include the following:
- Durability: Laptops are often more prone to damage than PCs. They’re smaller and lighter, which makes them more susceptible to drops and other accidents.
- Heat: Laptops generate a lot of heat, which can be uncomfortable to use and can also damage the internal components.
- Battery life: While laptops come with built-in batteries, they often don’t last as long as you’d like. And, when the battery does finally die, it can be pricey to replace.
- Inputs: Laptops have a limited number of inputs, which can make it difficult to connect all of your devices.
- Upgradeability: Laptops are not as easy to upgrade as PCs. You often have to replace the entire system when you want to upgrade, which can be costly.
The pros and cons of PCs
Desktop PCs are staples in home offices, but they’re also a considerable investment. However, here are the pros of using PCs to help you decide:
- Purpose: PCs are great for a variety of purposes, including gaming, editing videos, and working from home. They offer more power and options than laptops, and they’re often more affordable. Plus, they come with a variety of inputs and outputs, making it easy to connect all of your devices.
- Power: PCs offer more power than laptops, making them great for gaming and other resource-intensive tasks. Plus, they’re often more affordable, so you can get more bang for your buck.
- Upgradeability: PCs are very easy to upgrade. You can simply add more RAM or a faster processor without having to replace the entire system. This makes it much more affordable to keep your PC up-to-date. However, make sure you get your parts from reputable retailers and websites for building PCsso you know you’re getting the right parts for the right prices. PCs also offer a lot of customization options in terms of operating systems and software. This allows you to create a computer that perfectly suits your needs.
- Expandability: PCs are very expandable. You can add a variety of peripherals, including external hard drives, printers, scanners, and more. Plus, you can easily upgrade your graphics card or other components.
But before building your own PC, you must know they have some disadvantages. Here are some things that can set you back when getting a PC:
- Durability: PCs are often more prone to damage than laptops. They’re larger and heavier, which makes them more susceptible to drops and other accidents.
- Heat: Like laptops, PCs also generate a lot of heat. This amount of heat means you’ll need to invest in dedicated cooling systems other than built-in fans.
- Convenience: PCs can be difficult to move around and take up a lot of space. This can be a problem if you don’t have a lot of room in your home.
- Price: PCs can be quite expensive, especially if you’re looking for a high-end gaming PC. However, with PC parts being cheaper and made available, the prices of building a PC have gone down in recent years.
Which option is right for you?
When it comes to choosing between a laptop and a PC, the most important thing to consider is what you’ll be using the computer for. Laptops are great for portability and convenience, while PCs offer more power and options.
If you need a computer for gaming, editing videos, or working from home, then a PC is the better option. However, if you need a computer for school or general use, then a laptop might be the better choice. Ultimately, it all comes down to your needs and preferences. Do some research and decide which option is best for you.
Meta title: How To Pick The Right Computer For You: Laptops vs PCs
meta desc: Choosing between a laptop and a PC can be difficult. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but which one is the best for you? Read more in this article.