The Similarities Between Desktop, Notebook, and Laptop Computers

By Matthew Mack

So what is the difference between a desktop, a laptop and a notebook computer? What are the good and bad qualities of each? Which one should I buy?

These are all questions you may be thinking about. I have created this article in order to answer your important questions about desktop, notebook and laptop computers.

What is the difference between a desktop computer, a laptop computer and a notebook computer?

The main difference between a desktop computer, a notebook computer and a laptop computer, is the size and shape.

Desktop computers are much bigger and heavier than laptops and notebooks. They usually store more information and have more features than the other computer types. This being said, they are usually left at home and are not for quick transport. Also, desktop computers usually have all of their parts in different pieces. The main brain of the computer is linked to the screen, power source (it has no battery) and keyboard/mouse through wires. While desktops are bigger and not portable, many find them to be faster and easier to work with.

Laptop computers are better prepared for traveling. While they can be used as home computers, laptops are fitted with long battery lives and can be transported from one place to another quite easily. Laptops are note to be confused with their almost identical twin, the notebook. While they both are great to use for traveling, laptops usually have graphics cards, shorter battery lives, and larger, heavier screens. An good question to think about is whether or not you should buy a notebook computer or a laptop computer.

Notebook computers are often confused as laptop computers. Notebooks are light, extremely portable, and have a long battery life. While popular with students and business men, notebooks have great qualities that anyone can enjoy. Notebooks are usually not fitted with graphics cards and usually have a smaller, more compact keyboard. They are ideal for homework, assignments, papers and forms. The main purpose of a notebook is functionality. It is not so much an entertainment medium as it is a project manager.

What are the best and worst qualities of each?

Desktop computers good qualities:

designed for a heavier use and a larger capacity for files

ideal for a home office computer

meets most people's needs better

Desktop computers worst qualities:

not portable

can be a space hog

Laptop computers good qualities include:

easier to carry and quicker to set up

smaller yet capable of video playing (or music, games)

can substitute as a home computer

Laptop computers worse qualities:

can still be heavier if always carrying it around

battery life is not very long (depending on what programs your running)

can get bogged down easily (needs a checkup once in a while)

Notebook computers good qualities are:

much lighter and easier to move with

ideal for documentation and small presentations

great for classroom or workplace environments

longer battery power

Notebook computers worst qualities are:

not meant for graphics (games,)

not meant for more than one program

Which one should I buy?

This choice depends on what you will be using the computer for. If you plan to keep it at home all the time and need a easy-to-use and efficient device, a desktop is the best choice. If you need to take it to meetings but also need to be able to create intricate graphical presentations on it, a laptop is the perfect decision. If your a student and need to take notes and homework assignments down, a powerful little notebook is right up your alley.

Its all what you need your computer to do! You need to decide what you really need your computer for and get the one that suits it, otherwise it could be costly and not appropriate for your new needs! - 22787

About the Author:

Before you waste your time scrolling through thousands of computer offers, check out my free guide to notebooks where you can find lots of information on notebooks, laptops, and desktops!