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Pick your computer - a Notebook or desktop ?
Space and portability - Some people consider a notebook because they don't have space for a large desktop computer and monitor in their small dorm room or cramped home office. Not only are notebooks much more compact than desktops, but they can also be moved quickly and easily to clear up space. Notebook peripherals and accessories, such as printers, are also more compact. If you travel and need to use a PC, then a notebook is essential. Having a notebook allows you to work anywhere, and because they only weigh about 7lbs. on average, notebook PCs are easy to take anywhere. If you're taking long flights or going to places where electrical outlets are scarce, you should consider purchasing an extra battery or two.
Versatility - If your job involves giving presentations at meetings or conferences, a notebook can help you take your computer-based presentations with you. Likewise, a notebook lets you take your work home with you, so you don't get lost or left behind. Some notebook users choose to convert their notebook computer into a desktop by using a docking station, which is a cradle designed to boost your notebook's capabilities. Once you hook up your notebook to these devices, your PC gains additional expansion capabilities, allowing you to plug in drives and other devices.
Displays - While notebook displays have vastly improved through the years in terms of size and clarity, desktop monitors will always hold the edge here. First, notebooks are designed to be compact and consequently will not have large viewing areas. Also, since notebooks use LCD monitors, the video performance may satisfy not those who will be using their notebook extensively for graphics design applications and gaming. LCDs are not as adept as traditional CRT monitors in displaying fast-moving images and video.
Power, value - Notebooks have dramatically bridged the gap in terms of measuring up the power and storage capabilities that desktops boast. But, as stated above, while you'll likely be able to satisfy your performance demands with a notebook, you'll pay more than you would for similar performance from a desktop. One benefit of notebooks is that they actually require less power to run on and many come with battery and power saving features.
Compared to a desktop computer, a notebook will be more expensive than a desktop with similar hardware and capabilities. Because a notebook PC's components are so much smaller than those found in a desktop, more advanced technology is needed to produce them, causing notebook parts to be more expensive.
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