Laptop Notebook Computer

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.

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

The main differences between desktop computers notebook computers and laptop computers are the size, shape and specifications.

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!

About the Author

I love learning about different computers and writing about all I know about computers. I used to work at a Future Shop and have taken my knowledge to my own blog! For more information on computers visit my blog about notebook computers

Future Design Laptop ROLLTOP (Being Developed)

Excalibur 3500 Deluxe Series 5 Tray Food Dehydrator – Black $199.99 Excalibur 3500 Deluxe Series 5 Tray Food Dehydrator The 3500 Deluxe Series is a 5-Tray food dehydrator that is great for families that love eating healthy! Drying food is fun! The Excalibur Dehydrator allows you to dry anything evenly and efficiently. The unit can dry all fruits, vegetables, meats, and more! Make fruit leathers and home-made jerky – FRESH! The Excalibur has a trademarked horizon…

Peck’s Adjustable Bent Wood Laptop bed tray Walnut Here is our unique Walnut wood tray made specifically for your laptop or notebook computer. It will also function nicely as a writing desk. Slightly loosen the knobs and this tray easily adjusts to the level you wish from 3-1/2″ to 8-1/2″ without taking it apart. It will keep the tray off your legs and away from the heat typically generated from laptop computers. If your recliner arms are high you…

Folding Laptop Desk/Tray Table LD1527-NB Finish: Natural Pictured in Light Walnut Features: -Folding laptop desk/tray table.-Unique patented folding design.-Hinge lock can be released by pressing the solid brass lock buttons.-Folds flat for easy storage.-Can be carried under one arm.-Users may place their feet on the base for added stability.-Can be stored easily under a couch, on a shelf or stand up in closet.-Clean with a dam…

Cisco-Linksys BEFSRU31 EtherFast Cable/DSL Router with USB & 3-Port 10/100 Switch $294.00 The Linksys EtherFast cable/DSL router with USB and three-port 10/100 switch lets you connect your desktop or notebook PC to your router easily with a USB cable–without installing a network card. Configurable as a DHCP server, this router protects networks of up to 253 users with its NAT firewall. You can manage and modify your router’s network with IP filtering, forwarding, and DMZ hosting….

Rebuild Only – 14.4 Volt NiMH Laptop Battery $139.95 BatteryValues.com is your one-stop-shop online for replacement batteries, home and car chargers, home and car AC/DC adapters, and all your battery accessories requirements….

Belkin Mini Surge Protector Dual USB Charger $13.30 Protect your electronic devices while traveling….

8pc T6 T5 iPhone pentalobe, cross Opener Screwdriver Tool Kit for Opening BlackBerry Phones PDA MP3 Palm Treo Pocket PC Laptop iPhone Blackberry universal cell phone repair tool $0.01 8pc T6 T5 Opener Screwdriver Tool Kit for Opening BlackBerry Phones PDA MP3 Palm Treo Pocket PC Laptop Blackberry universal cell phone repair tool…

Boxer 30 Pcs 4mm Precision Screwdriver Set $8.99 30 Pcs 4mm Precision Screwdriver Set Including T-3,T-4,T-5& Pozi PZ0 For Cell phone, laptop , clock etc….

Netbooks (Med) Methamphibian Hellcat MusicSkins LLC is the industry leader in music, fashion, art, television, and pop culture premium quality, vinyl skins. We envision all iPods, mobile phones, PDAs, gaming devices, laptops, iPads, cameras, hard drives, e-readers and other personal electronics as portable canvases for style and individuality. Our focus on pop culture and personalization has created a stylish way for bands, brands, a…

13 Laptop (Mac/Pc) Methamphibian Hellca MusicSkins LLC is the industry leader in music, fashion, art, television, and pop culture premium quality, vinyl skins. We envision all iPods, mobile phones, PDAs, gaming devices, laptops, iPads, cameras, hard drives, e-readers and other personal electronics as portable canvases for style and individuality. Our focus on pop culture and personalization has created a stylish way for bands, brands, a…