Modern technology has come a very long way in a very short time. Nowadays, there are more options when it comes to what type of PC computer buyers choose. From desktops to laptops plus tablets and other mobile devices, the range of tech now available means everyone from power users right down to casual web browsers can find the perfect tool for their needs.
However, while these smaller devices offer huge convenience, most simply aren’t capable of performing the more demanding tasks required in everyday business. Consequently, the options for business computers typically boil down to one of two choices – laptops or desktops.
If you’re trying to decide which type of computer would work best as your next business PC, read on some of the pros and cons of both.
Portability
The enclosed, small-form design and in-built keyboard/screen make laptops the clear winner when it comes to portability. Sure, you can move a desktop computer around but it’s simply not a practical option if portability is a requirement in your job.
Better yet, with a laptop’s included Wi-Fi receivers, you can hook up to the internet anywhere you can find a connection – which, by default, means pretty much anywhere since the majority of people these days have a mobile phone they can use to share data wirelessly.
Power and price
While once it was the case that buying a laptop meant compromising on power (while also often paying more), today’s considerable advances in tech have allowed laptops to reduce the processing power gap. Indeed, modern high-end laptops are as capable of performing like-for-like tasks as their desktop counterparts – and often at comparable prices. Check online to compare cheap laptops against desktops to see how the price gap has narrowed.
That said, if your work involves complex processing such as video editing, 3D modeling, etc, you will likely benefit from the power and scalability of a high-end desktop machine. However, in the main, most users will find more than enough processing grunt in a laptop.
Energy
Due to the fact laptops often run off battery power alone, they are designed to be as energy-efficient as possible. The same most definitely is not true of desktop systems that can drain considerable power, resulting in higher electricity bills. Even if you mainly use a laptop tethered to a power supply, research has found they can reduce the electrical cost of your computing by as much as 80%-90%.
Comfort
Fact – desktop computers with their external screens and separate keyboard are more comfortable to use, particularly for extended periods. Then again, there’s nothing to stop you hooking up a laptop to an external screen – or even buying a wireless keyboard if you find the in-built keyboard limiting.
The take out
In truth, there are pros and cons to both laptops and desktops and your decision should be largely dictated by the type of work you do and the tasks you need your tech to perform. Before making a decision, spend some time thinking about how you currently work and base your choice on the system that works best for your personal requirements.
