Desktops are preferred over laptops if stationary: Laptops are great if you need a mobile computer that you can move around, but if all you're going to do is keep it on a desk, I suggest getting a traditional desktop computer and monitor. This is especially the case if it's going to be heavily used. It's not that laptops are bad, but cramming all those parts into such a small case can cause more issues over time. Traditional desktop towers have much more room for heat dissipation and are easier to work on and repair.
Understand the all-in-ones can complicate repairs: The all-in-one desktop computers with the computer built into the monitor are very similar to laptops. Though the cases of these are a little bigger than those of a laptop, they still are smaller than traditional computer towers. You can have the same heat and repair complications of a laptop. So, again here, I typically suggest a computer tower over an all-in-one.
Consider all the laptop options: If you need mobility, you'll find many different types of laptops out there in various sizes and speeds. I'd say a basic middle-of-the-road laptop has a 17-inch screen size, measures 15 inches wide, 10 inches deep, and 1 inch high when closed, and weighs around 5 pounds. If you want a laptop that's much smaller or lighter, it's typically more expensive if you want the same speed or performance. For instance, you might find a smaller laptop, sometimes called a netbook, for less, but it will likely be slower. You'll pay more for the smaller, faster, laptops also known as ultrabooks.
Gauge performance by comparing the processor and RAM: These are usually the two most important specs to compare the speed and performance of computers. The RAM is usually easy to compare, just see how many gigabytes (GBs) each computer offers. The processor isn't so easy cause the many models and naming schemes used by Intel and AMD. However, you can use a website like cpubenchmark.net to compare them: the higher the CPU mark, the faster.
Check the drive type and size: The type of drive used in a computer also has an impact on performance. Traditional hard drives are still the most prevalent drive used and typically come in the range of size from 500 GB to 2,000 GB (2 TB). Solid-state drives (SSD) are newer and faster, but due to costs typically offer much less space: 80 GB to 500 GB.
Consider custom PCs from small businesses: Typically, custom-built computers are easier to upgrade in the future when compared to the big brands like Dell, HP, and Acer, so they can last longer. They also don't come with all the junk the big brands preload on their computers. Some small businesses can also be easier to work with than the big brands if you run into problems. For instance, I include a free on-site warranty to my customers.
About the Author