When it’s time for a new computer, many users ask themselves the question: PC or laptop? The requirements for the device play a decisive role in this. If you travel a lot or need to be mobile for some other reason, you usually reach for your notebook. Desktop PCs, on the other hand, tend to offer higher performance and more expansion options at a lower price. Here’s the advantages and disadvantages of both devices and also tell you what else to think about before you buy.
What are the main differences between PC and notebooks?
Laptops are perfectly geared to the needs of the mobile world. They can be disconnected from the mains and can be taken anywhere thanks to their low weight. In addition, a notebook takes up much less space compared to a standard PC, as you don’t need an additional monitor or external peripherals such as mouse and keyboard. This has of course decisive advantages, especially in small apartments or cramped offices.
Laptops have lower Energy Consumption
Because a laptop is generally more equipped and has fewer components than a PC, it also has lower power consumption. However, the components are more difficult to access than in a standard PC case and the upgrade options are usually limited to the hard drive (SSD) and the memory. For this reason, you need to be relatively precise when you purchase the hardware.
And as handy as a laptop may be, if you work a lot on the computer, you won’t enjoy the small screen and shrunken keyboard in the long run. Although you always have the possibility to connect an external monitor and a proper keyboard (via cable or Bluetooth) and thus work as comfortably as on the PC. But the biggest advantage of the notebook, namely the flexibility, is also flute.
And in terms of performance, too, the point clearly goes to the desktop PCs. Not only are they better equipped in terms of CPU and graphics card, but they usually also have more hard drive capacity and more RAM. In addition, upgrades, repairs, maintenance and individual adjustments are easier to implement, which is why PCs are often the first choice for passionate gamers. There are also special gaming notebooks equipped with appropriate hardware. However, they still can’t keep up with a high-end gaming PC.
PC: More power at a lower price
But one of the most striking arguments for the PC is certainly the price. Because even though notebooks are relatively cheap to get these days, PCs with comparable performance are still much cheaper.
Due to technological progress, however, the boundaries between desktop and laptop are becoming increasingly blurred anyway. There are now also “mini PCs”, some of which are even smaller and lighter than a netbook or tablet. In addition, these so-called ” all-in-one computers” have also established themselves. The devices with built-in touchscreen and battery are no less mobile than a notebook and can be easily set up, laid down, mounted on the wall or carried to another office.
Tips for buying a computer
Once you have decided whether it should be a PC or rather a laptop, there are a few things you should consider before purchasing.
For notebooks, pay particular attention to efficient components. These not only extend the battery life, but also keep the volume level (keyword: fan) within limits. Since the components are difficult to upgrade or replace afterwards, you should also spend a few euros more for a more powerful CPU, a better graphics card and a little more RAM.
If you don’t want to give up Internet access on the go and don’t necessarily want to use public Wi-Fi, we also advise you to buy an LTE-enabled notebook. This allows you to connect to the mobile network anytime, anywhere.