Laptop vs desktop: this is one of the most prevalent questions that people looking for computers-whether it is for gaming or productivity-is asking. The truth is, it is quite impossible to recommend just one above the other due to so many considerations.

But if you absolutely have to choose, this is the guide for you. You will learn about the pros and cons of both desktop and laptop computers, and what makes them suit your very specific needs.

Laptop Vs Desktop 101: The Basics

As per TechRadar, neither device is better than the other. The tech found in laptops has done so much to catch up with the raw power of desktops, and literally the only noticeable difference between them is their size and configuration.

Knowing the difference is way too simple, even a kid could do it: laptops are small and compact to literally fit on your lap-that's why they're called that. Desktops, on the other hand, are big, feature multiple parts, and remain stationary on a desk.

Nvidia razer desktop
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As previously mentioned, there's barely any difference between these two types of computers in terms of performance anymore. For instance, if you can find a desktop PC with an RTX 3080, you'll find a laptop with the same hardware.

The only ones you won't find in a laptop are super-high-end components like the NVIDIA RTX 3090, which produce way too much heat and consume too much power to be placed in a portable machine. It is technically impossible to put such a high-powered component where it won't get enough cooling; unless you jury-rig a ghetto cooling setup, that is.

In the end, it's all about your specific needs. If you're a person who's always on the go and will always need a computer with you, go for a laptop. If you're mostly a homebuddy, go for a desktop. That's it. Nothing more, nothing less.

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BERLIN, GERMANY - DECEMBER 28: A participant sits with a laptop computer as he attends the annual Chaos Communication Congress of the Chaos Computer Club at the Berlin Congress Center on December 28, 2010 in Berlin, Germany. The Chaos Computer Club is Europe's biggest network of computer hackers and its annual congress draws up to 3,000 participants.

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On The Case Of Upgradability

Some desktop enthusiasts slam laptops for many reasons, but among their biggest points is the apparent lack of upgradability on these portable systems. And they'd be right.

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NEW YORK, NY - MAY 2: A view of the new Microsoft Surface Laptop following a Microsoft launch event, May 2, 2017 in New York City. The Windows 10 S operating system is geared toward the education market and is Microsoft's answer to Google's Chrome OS.

Aside from options to upgrade the RAM sticks or storage (which are already few and far between), there literally isn't much you can do with a typical laptop computer. You normally can't upgrade the CPU or graphics card when things start to slow down. While there is a use case for upgrading the GPU via an external GPU dock, that option is not too cost-effective.

However, some laptop companies are already trying to overcome this. A perfect example would be the company Framework, which prides itself in selling fully upgradable laptops. Here is one of their products being reviewed by popular tech YouTuber Linus Sebastian:

Price Considerations

If you're faced with a choice between a laptop and a desktop with similar specs, the laptop will almost always be the more expensive option. That's because you're buying it for its portability.

All of that custom parts tooling and machining to make a lightweight, easy-to-carry machine costs money, and companies will always pass that to the consumer. As such, you will then take into consideration the first piece of advice this guide gives: are you always on the go, or are you mostly working in one place?

How to make your computer look cool?

Custom Stickers
(Photo : Custom Stickers)

After knowing the general comparison between desktop and laptop computers, I think you have made your decision. Then the next step and consideration for many people is to make your computer look cooler. The best way to do this is to use Custom die-cut stickers, like holographic stickers. It is less likely to be confused with others and more stylish. Also, you can create or choose any picture you like as a sticker to decorate your computer so that your computer not only performs well, but also looks cool. 

Conclusions

That's it for this guide, really. Laptops and desktops, provided that you're comparing both modern ones, are not that different anymore in terms of power. Knowing which to pick depends entirely on what you will be using the computer for.

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Written by RJ Pierce

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