The Difference Between Desktop, Laptop and Notebook Computers

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 asking yourself. I have created this post in order to answer your pertinent questions about desktop, laptop and notebook computers.

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 designed for on the go travel. While they can be used as home computers, laptops are fitted with batteries and can be transported easily from one place to another. Laptops and notebooks are usually confused as the same thing. While they both are designed for travel, the laptop usually has graphics cards, CD writer drives, and larger (usually heavier) screens. A big question to consider when buying a computer is whether you should have a laptop or a notebook.

Notebook computers are often confused as laptop computers. Notebooks are light, extremely portable, and have along 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 good and bad qualities of each?

Desktop computers - good qualities:

* designed for heavy use and large capacity

* ideal for home office/family computer

* easier to use for most people

Desktop computers - bad qualities:

* not portable

* can take up a lot of space

Laptop computers - good qualities:

* portable and easy to set up

* compact yet capable of media play (videos, games)

* can substitute as a home computer

Laptop computers - bad qualities:

* can still be heavy if needed for constant portability

* battery life is not always very long (depending on what it's doing)

* can get bogged down

Notebook computers - good qualities:

* very light and easy to move around

* ideal for documentation and small presentations

* great for classroom or workplace environments

* long battery life

Notebook computers - bad qualities:

* not for graphic needs (video, games)

* not great for multitasking

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.

It's all about your needs in a computer, finding out what you need your computer to do will help you decide on which type of computer is right for you!