However, these devices come in many forms nowadays. You can buy a traditional desktop computer at home, a portable laptop for when you’re on the go, or even an interactive tablet to replace your old-fashioned entertainment system.
Picking between these three options is not an easy decision. Before making a decision, make sure to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each. As we go through all three models in this article, we will analyze what makes them unique.
What is a Tablet?
Tablet computers have flat-screen displays and use touch screens to operate – originally with styluses, but now most often by fingers. With its mobile capabilities and battery backup, it gives people the option to work on-the-go. In comparison to desktops and laptops, tablets have been around since the 1980s, but they still function as a sort of upstart.
Many people remember 2010 as the year they were introduced to tablets for the first time, but this isn’t even close to being true. In fact, Apple’s very own tablet didn’t start out successful until much later, when it finally saw its release date in 1989.
As if anticipating this new era of computing, Apple released the Newton Personal Assistant Tablet back in 1993. Tablets at first focused on note-clipping and gatekeeping before the 21st century witnessed their evolution into what we know them as today.
Tablet Pros and Cons
Pros
Portability
A tablet can go anywhere you do; it is lightweight and small enough to fit in your purse or sling over your shoulder. There are no limits to where it will take you – from the beach to a coffee shop, even into work if need be.
Speed and Performance
When you need to check your email or need a calendar reminder quickly, tablets work best because they are able to start in just seconds. If you want something more permanent, then laptops are preferable because they take longer than tablets to turn on; however, if you’re looking for something portable and easy-to-use, then having both is perfect.
Design
Let’s put it this way, tablets are sleek devices. Not only do they look good, but their displays also come across as better than most laptop screens.
Cons
Typing
Touchscreens may seem convenient, but typing for long periods of time can grow tiresome. No matter how many keyboards manufacturers try to install, they end up complicating the tablet with more features.
Price
Tablets tend to come at a high price due to the fact that they’re in such high demand.
What is a Laptop?
In comparison with a traditional desktop computer, a laptop offers more mobility and compactness. A clamshell design makes it possible for the user to open the device when in use and close it for storage afterward.
This laptop case helps keep your screen and keyboard safe because it has a strong outer shell. Computers became more portable when this idea came about – though some models initially weighed up to 25 pounds!
In 1981, consumers were introduced to one of the first laptops on the market when IBM released its Osborne 1. Within two years, it was joined by several other brands – Epson releasing their own laptop known as the HX-20.
From then on, the devices evolved over time – from what we see now. It took many years for them to come into the modern design; it all started with the NEC UltraLite which was one of the first laptops that weighed less than 5 pounds.
Laptop Pros and Cons
Pros
Portability
While a laptop will always be bulkier than a tablet, the sheer notion of portability drives this device to its usage. You may not want to throw it under your arm – but with an appropriate backpack or bag – there are few places where you cannot carry the laptop with you.
Size and Weight
Laptops are much smaller than desktops, but they perform about equally well despite this size difference.
Internet Capabilities
The internet can be accessed via two methods on your laptop. It can either be connected via an ethernet cable, or it can wirelessly connect via a Wi-Fi network. This convenient feature of laptops makes them more mobile and accessible than traditional desktops.
Battery Life
It is important to have a laptop that has a long battery life if you do any work on the go. Most laptops can endure 10 hours of use before needing to be charged again; however, if your laptop completely runs out of power there are many ways to get a new one.
Cons
Expensive
You get a lot out of your laptop, but paying top dollar for a high-quality machine means you’ll be getting the most bang for your buck.
Software Upgrades
Your laptop becomes obsolete so quickly that it only takes one day for a new update to show up on your phone. As tempting as it may be, you don’t need to upgrade each time there’s an update – the performance of your system won’t suffer much if you wait about a week or two before downloading anything new.
What is a Desktop?
A desktop is a type of computer that is typically situated in one place. It has many parts, including the main part – the tower storing all of which holds the power to run both hardware and software – a keyboard and mouse for typing, navigating, or playing games, and also monitors, so you can see what is happening on your screen.
The first fully functional computer to take up an entire room, before the release of Data point 2200, was inaccessible and unaffordable for most people.
In 1977, the first home computers were introduced to the public. They boasted features such as being able to access information from anywhere and operate them with only one keystroke.
Desktop computers were popularized during the 1980s and 1990s as they were gradually used by households for both work and leisure. Access to the internet broadened many younger people’s knowledge of these machines, which made them feel more inclined to use desktop computers themselves.
Message boards and chat rooms are not only useful for schoolwork, but also for connecting with others. Gaming was especially instrumental in the growth and popularity of desktops. Once laptops and tablets saw an increase in use, desktops declined in popularity as well.
Desktop Pros and Cons
Pros
Price
While a desktop will limit your mobility, it also has its perks. For instance, if you’re looking for an affordable device that doesn’t need to leave the comfort of one room, then opting for a desktop might just do the trick. It may be expensive, but the price is satisfying when considering what other electronics would cost – like another tablet or laptop.
Gaming
Earlier, we discussed gaming, and PC gamers are still the first go-to for many enthusiasts. Desktop computers offer greater performance, smoother graphics, and better gameplay.
Customizable
You can customize your desktop with any available components thanks to the extra space. Additions like add-ons or devices will give you faster, higher-performing systems that are perfect for gaming and entertainment needs. You’ll even find out how easy it is to configure them just how you want them!
Cons
Bulky
Desktops are not only heavy, but also contain lots of little pieces that make it difficult to move about. You won’t be able to bring your desktop to the pool anytime soon because it requires a power cord to function. You need plenty of space for your own computer desk—including furniture for placing the machine on top. All those cables can take up a lot of room, too!
Internet Connectivity
Generally, desktops rely on hardwire connections for internet accessibility. This can make them immobile.
Higher Power Costs
Constantly being plugged in and using electricity from your house means that you are going to be paying more for power costs. As a gamer or if you work at home, this bill can rise high enough to cause problems with your electric usage.
Final Words
Every electronic device offers a mix of positives and negatives, each serving different purposes. While some overlap from time to time, there isn’t one that can give you all the advantages of a tablet, laptop or desktop computer. When choosing a cell phone, it’s important to take inventory of how you’ll use it and find something that closely matches those needs.
