Should I Get a Laptop or Desktop?

Congratulations, class of 2012! You’re probably pumped that you got into your school of choice and now you’re planning on making the next step. While your dorm room supplies should be purchased soon (we’ll talk about a good list of items to buy in an upcoming article), you definitely need to worry about bringing a computer to school. The question is: what kind should I bring? Are laptops better than desktops? What is the most suitable solution for me?

The answer of this question is determined by how often you intend to use it. Many classes require you to be mobile and utilize a laptop for this purpose. Additionally, if you have a roommate on a different schedule, you may want to have a laptop so that you can work elsewhere without disturbing him or her.

Laptops are great for taking notes, churning out papers in the library (on your own personal property), and since all are equipped with wifi nowadays, you can get yourself wireless internet access anywhere. On the other hand, laptops are more expensive than desktops, but that’s because they’re more portable and a lot easier to take with you (especially at the end of a semester).

If cost is an issue and roommates are not a problem, a desktop may be a viable solution. Most desktops are more powerful than laptops (since portable chips and storage are harder to produce). But on the other hand, you’ll be hand writing your notes instead of typing them, and it may be a lot easier (and faster) to have control over your keyboard rather than have to jot things down by hand. It’s less strenuous on your hands, too.

While mobility is the laptop’s biggest strength, it’s also the biggest weakness. Since you can carry it around anywhere, it’s more likely to be broken. With that in mind, opt in for a service contract that gives you full warranty support when breakage occurs. Also, since your laptop can be stolen easily, consider ways to keep it secure. Laptop manufacturer Targus has a wide variety of security accessories available. Don’t forget to have an extra battery on hand, especially if you’re mobile (without a power outlet) for a prolonged period of time. Battery life dies down over time, so this is a purchase you may want to revisit in a few years as well. (Be sure to check out discount outlets like eBay for cheaper deals than going directly to the manufacturer for spare parts. I saved over $100 on a laptop battery I’m using right now by using eBay instead of Dell.)

As always, visit your college computing website and get their suggested hardware and software recommendations. You may even be eligible for some seriously good educational discounts when buying through your school. If you have any questions, you should contact your school’s computing program for advice.