Whether to replace an outdated computer with a laptop computer or desktop pc is a choice most of us have to face in these days of rapidly evolving technology. Laptop Computers are incredibly popular at the moment, but that does not mean they are right for everyone. You should consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

Pros

A laptop can be carried easily, which is particularly useful if you want to move it between work and home. It gives you the freedom to operate it in a range of locations, including planes, gardens, public spaces etc.

Cons

The main drawback of owning a laptop is that if you can carry it, then so could someone else. These sorts of computers are very easy to steal, which means that you lose both the machine and the data it holds.

Portable computers are generally a lot more expensive than desktop versions. For the same amount of money you could buy a standard portable or a more powerful desktop. You pay extra for a machine that is small and transportable, so you need to decide how important this is to you.

All the parts in a compact computer are 'proprietary', meaning that it can only be repaired by the company that made it. After the warranty expires this could prove to be very costly. By contrast, desktop PCs can often be mended at a local computer store for a fraction of the cost.

Unfortunately, people often buy a portable computer because it is fashionable, but later regret that they did not buy a desktop. For example, college students who intend to take their machine into classes but never do. Furthermore, the theft of portables from colleges is a major problem.

You should only buy a portable computer after thinking seriously about whether you really need one.