The document compares laptop and desktop computers. It notes that laptops are smaller, portable, and battery powered, while desktops are larger, not portable, and heavier. Both have similar features like email, web browsing, and media playback. Laptops tend to be more expensive than desktops but are necessary for those like college students who need portable devices. The document concludes that laptops are best for those wanting computers for portable use while desktops are better for stationary home use, though the author requires a laptop for college.

1. Should I buy a
Laptop or Desktop
Computer?
By: Kellie Kameda

2. Going into the College of Ed it is required to buy a
laptop.
But aren’t they expensive? And wouldn’t it just be
better to get a desktop computer where it’s always
at home and cheaper?
I did some looking to see what’s better a laptop or
a desktop. Here’s what I’ve found…

3. What is a Laptop?
A laptop computer is a
small mobile computer.
You can carry around
because it is usually light in
weight.

4. What is a Desktop?
A desktop computer is a
personal computer.
Usually made for desk use
at home or in an office.

5. Difference?
Laptop Desktop
 Small in size  Big in size
 Battery powered  Not portable
 Light weight  Heavy in weight
 Portable entertainment  Comes with a tower that
system sits on the floor under a
desk.
 Easier to repair

6. Features
Both the laptop and desktop computers have the
same features.
 Checking e-mail
 Web Surfing
 Word Processing
 Playing Music
 Photo Editing
 Computer Games
 DVD Watching

7. Cost
Buy Notebook PCs direct from the HP Home & Home Office Store
Laptop Computers Desktop Computers
HP Pavillion $599.99 Dimension $359
dv6000t series C521
HP Pavillion $674.99 Dimension $449
dv2000t series E521
Compaq $549.99 Dimension $459
Presario
V6000z series
E520

8. Who Can Use It?
Laptop Desktop
 Business People  Office Users
 College Students  Home Users
 Students (all ages)

9. Decision…
Getting a laptop or desktop depends on your preference.
If you want a computer you can carry around with you so
it’s there when needed get a laptop. But if you want just
want one for home use and don’t mind not having it 24-7
then get a desktop computer.
For me I have no choice I need a laptop. Even if it is a bit
more expensive. Although I would rather have a desktop
computer, maybe I’ll do fine with a laptop for now and get
a desktop later.

10. References
“Computers: Desktops vs. Laptop.” Consumers Reports 69 (2004): 40-41. EBSCO
Host. WCC Library., Kaneohe, HI. 19 April 2007.
http://library.wcc.hawaii.edu/.
Saltzman, Mark. “Should I buy a laptop or desktop?” Microsoft. 22 Mar. 2005.
Microsoft. 19 April 2007
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/moredone/lapvsdesk.mspx.
“Laptop.” Wikipedia. 2007. Wikipedia, free encyclopedia. 19 April 2007
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laptop.