Laptops or desktops - which is better?
Each academic at Warwick Business School in a school-funded post is entitled to choose between a desktop or laptop computer. Other WBS staff receive a desktop PC by default but can change to a laptop if their group is prepared to pay the cost differential.
This page is intended to assist users in deciding whether to select a laptop or desktop by showing some of the advantages and disadvantages of each. The short version is that if you wish to move the computer around then choose a laptop. If not then go for a desktop - the worst outcome is to have a laptop sat on your desk that never moves. This will be slower, less reliable and more liable to be stolen.
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Laptop computers
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Desktop computers
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✔ Portable. Clearly the main advantage. You can transport your files / programs with you.
✔ Productivity improver. Laptops allow you to work on trains etc and can thus improve productivity.
x Easy to steal. A stolen laptop can lead to you work being lost as well as a possible lost of private data on you or your students / colleagues.
x Complex. Files are usually stored on the network at WBS. When the laptop is taken away from campus files are synchronised to the local computer. Although this is routine it is complex and increases the likelihood of problems and disruption to your work.
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✔ Reliable. Desktops do not suffer the bumps and pressure / temperature changes of laptops. Also the components have not been miniaturised – all of this makes desktops more reliable.
✔ Faster. Desktop machines always out perform similarly priced laptops. Laptop components typically work more slower than expected due to the need to save power and increase battery life.
✔ Remote desktop. You can remotely access your desktop giving you access to shared drives, MIS and other applications.
✔ Cost. Desktops are cheaper. Some of the savings are used to specify more powerful systems (e.g. more memory, larger hard disks).
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