Desktops are more durable than laptops, but why do people still use laptops?

Desktops are generally more durable than laptops. They are easier to upgrade and repair, making them a great choice for long-term use. However, many people still stick with laptops because they have some major advantages over desktops.

Need convenience and mobility

Laptops are unmatched when it comes to portability. Whether you're working at home, at a coffee shop, or on the road, laptops can go wherever you go. Desktops certainly offer more computing power, but they can't follow you to another room or location when you need a change of scenery.

Mobility also means you don't lose valuable time. If you need to go to an event, meet friends, or work between multiple locations, you can take your laptop with you and work in your spare time. This flexibility allows you to adapt your work environment to your needs. You don't even have to go far to find the benefits of a laptop, if you want to move to another room, work on the sofa, or get some fresh air on the balcony when the sun comes up, you'll appreciate the portability of a laptop. This level of convenience and portability is something that a desktop simply can't offer.

Cloud services extend laptop capabilities and lifespan

The rise of cloud services has redefined what laptops can do. Platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive let you keep large files off your laptop's hard drive, reducing clutter and improving performance. With less pressure on memory, your laptop can run faster and more efficiently for longer.

Cloud-based applications also eliminate the need for frequent hardware upgrades. You can edit videos with online tools like Canva, collaborate in real time with Google Docs, and even run complex simulations with remote desktop services. These technologies turn a mid-range laptop into a powerful machine without overloading its hardware.

In addition to efficiency, cloud backup provides a safety net. If your laptop malfunctions or is stolen, you won't lose important data. Everything you need is accessible from another device. This reassurance makes laptops less likely to be discarded, even if they technically have a shorter lifespan than desktops.

Allows work during power outages

A built-in battery is one of the biggest advantages of using a laptop. Desktops rely on a constant power source, but laptops can run for hours in the event of a power outage.

During these times, your laptop keeps you connected and productive. Whether you're answering urgent emails or finishing an important project, you don't have to wait for the power to come back on. For someone who often works with tight deadlines, this is incredibly helpful.

Some people invest in a backup generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for their desktop setup. These solutions will work, but only for short-term emergencies (minutes to hours). The reality is that desktops typically require hundreds of watts (300 - 600W) to run, which will drain your backup battery significantly faster than a laptop.

So if you're prepared for a power outage that lasts longer than a day, a laptop and a small portable power station will last you longer and be cheaper.

Can be used as an emergency power source

Here's something most people don't think about: Your laptop can act as an emergency power source. If your phone battery dies in an emergency, you can charge it with your laptop. This is incredibly useful, especially on long road trips or during power outages.

Some laptops even come with high-capacity batteries and Thunderbolt ports that can charge other devices multiple times. While this isn't the primary reason people use laptops, it's a feature that's appreciated.

Desktops excel in raw performance, durability, and customizability. They're great for gamers, designers, and anyone who needs a computer a lot. But for many, laptops win hands down. Their portability, adaptability through cloud services, and usefulness during power outages make them an essential tool in their daily lives.

While desktops may be more durable, laptops help you stay connected and productive no matter where you are or what challenges you face. For these reasons, choose a laptop over a desktop.

Marvin Fry

Update 09 December 2024