What is more expensive than a laptop or computer. Computer or laptop - which is better to choose for yourself? Can a laptop replace a computer

Should you buy a desktop or laptop? Our guide will help you choose which better computer or a laptop for you!

When buying a computer, you will have to face two options: desktop Personal Computer or laptop. What you end up buying will depend on your needs and of course your budget.

A desktop PC is placed on a table in the office or at home. It is assembled from separate parts - as a rule, the system unit is the brain of a computer with DVD drive ohm, as well as a monitor, keyboard and mouse.

On the other hand, a laptop (or netbook) is an all-in-one portable device. You can easily carry it from room to room, between home and work, or use it when traveling (traveling by train, for example). Laptops have a battery that can last from one to four hours, depending on the programs you use. Laptops have a built-in monitor, keyboard and mouse and can range in size from 10 "to 18".

In the recent past, if you wanted a fast and powerful computer, you had to buy a desktop computer. Currently, the performance of desktops and laptops is similar, and in some cases equal. The only area where desktops and laptops can be very different is the ability to play games, although there are gaming laptops, but they are still less powerful than desktops. If you need a computer for latest games then you should definitely consider desktop PCs. If you want to buy a computer for viewing photos, the Internet or printing documents, then the laptop is for you good choice.

Technical conditions

Key characteristics to look out for when buying a computer or laptop CPU (processor), RAM ( random access memory), graphics adapter and HDD... The processor is the brain of the computer, RAM is the space where all your programs will be loaded (the more RAM, the more programs you can download); the graphics adapter (also known as graphics cards or graphics controllers) determines how well your computer can handle games, and the hard drive also determines how many programs, music files, documents, videos, and Email You will be able to store it on your computer.

Laptops tend to have lower specs than desktops, although the difference gets blurred every year. A typical laptop has less RAM and less hard drive space than a similarly priced laptop desktop computer and it will also have a less powerful graphics adapter. The processors responsible for computer performance often have the same price tag on laptops and PCs. For the best performance on a laptop or desktop PC, look for a Core i3 Intel, Core i5 or Core i7 CPU, or processor AMD Phenom II.

Screen size

When buying a laptop, you need to decide which screen size will be right for your needs. A 15-inch (diagonal) screen size means the laptop will be large, but you will be able to view a lot more programs on the screen at the same time, and in some cases run multiple windows on the screen. The 14.1 inch screen maintains a good balance between size and portability. You should consider buying a laptop with a 13 or 12 inch screen if you want a laptop that is easy to carry around. Choose a 10-inch netbook if all you need is a small and light laptop for web browsing, access to social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, and viewing photos.

Burning CDs and DVDs

Almost all desktops and laptops now come with DVD burners, even if you decide to buy the cheapest laptop (assuming it's not a netbook). Most laptops have a built-in DVD burner, but the slim and ultra-thin models can come with a DVD burner as external device to be connected to the laptop.

New laptops and desktops come with software?

Almost all laptops come preloaded with Microsoft Windows 7 or 8, which is not the case for a PC. They must also come with software for burning CDs and DVDs and watching movies. Some laptops and desktops may also include office applications, games, and tutorials. Many models also come with virus protection software for your computer. Let's summarize how a laptop differs from a computer, and what suits you best.

Why buy a laptop?

If you want a computer that you can use at home as well as at work, then you need a laptop. Alternatively, you can buy a laptop if you need more freedom to use your computer at home. A fully charged laptop can be used for several hours and will allow you to work in the hall, bedroom or even in the yard. On the other hand, a desktop computer limits you to be able to work in one place where the computer is installed.

Why buy a desktop computer?

If you want a computer that can store great amount music files or a computer that will allow you to play games, then a desktop PC is a good choice. Powerful desktops tend to be cheaper than powerful laptops with similar specs, desktops also have a huge advantage, it can be easily upgraded if your needs change (you can add more memory, RAM, or a better graphics card). A laptop cannot be expanded to the same extent as a desktop computer, although you can swap out the hard drive and add more RAM in most cases.

Over the past month, I have already written on the blog a whole series of articles on buying home (stationary) computers, so that any beginner in the field of computer literacy can either independently choose and buy all the components necessary for the subsequent assembly of a computer, or buy a ready-made system unit if you're not sure of yourself or just doesn't want to waste time. I also highlighted a separate article in order to talk about buying basic peripheral devices, Without which stationary computer would turn into a simple box :)

At the same time, I have not yet started a conversation about laptops. Today, many people buy laptops instead of bulky system units and separate monitors for them, because they are convenient, take up little space, and are not particularly inferior in performance to stationary ones. And in this article I would like to talk about what is better to buy: a regular stationary home computer or a laptop? After all, there will still be some difference between them? Now I will highlight the positive and negative sides and both so that any user can make the right decision to buy exactly what he needs, because the next article will focus on buying laptops!

What advantages can you highlight if you buy a laptop?

The first thing to say in favor of laptops is their choice and purchase is actually not such a difficult business... It's just that beginners who understand little about computers are always unsure of this process and often order a laptop with the help of some knowledgeable acquaintance or relative. Yes, and this is normal, because when it came time to buy the very first computer (and still did not know how to use it at all) for me, it was a friend from the IT department of one company that helped us with the choice :) Now I myself have 4- x years of work experience in the IT field and therefore such assistance, respectively, is not required.

The process of choosing a laptop is similar to the process of choosing a ready-made (already assembled) computer (i.e. system unit), which I talked about in the article:

That is, of course, you do not need to select individual components for the laptop (as we did when we did our own selection of the "filling" for the system unit), which greatly simplifies the task!

I would say that it is even simpler :) When buying a ready-made system unit, you somehow have to buy a monitor for it (if you don't already have one), perhaps a keyboard and a mouse, as well as an acoustic system (at least simple two sound speakers) ... This is what I think is imperative. You may also need Wi-Fi adapter if it is not built into the board, but you need to connect to wireless network... For those who communicate via Skype, a webcam will be needed, otherwise Skype will turn into a regular one phone conversation:) In general, when buying a stationary computer, one way or another we collect a number of additional equipment for it.

When buying a laptop, the most important thing is to buy it directly and a mouse to it :) Although some "monsters" can very skillfully handle the touchpad and work with it faster than with a mouse :) Everything else is optional. For example, you can buy another speaker system in order to hear not dull and not very high quality sound from the laptop's built-in speakers, and a decent one from external speakers. And so, in laptops 99% will have a built-in webcam, 100% will have a built-in Wi-Fi adapter, there is always, of course, a keyboard and built-in speakers.

However, despite the fact that choosing a laptop is easier than a desktop computer, their price will be more expensive. For example, a laptop with exactly the same configuration as a system unit will still cost more. And this is already attributed to the disadvantages ...

Mobility... Even the most bulky laptops (with screens of 19 inches or more) are still convenient to carry with you wherever you go. I put it in my laptop bag and carried it. With a stationary computer, this obviously cannot be done :)) To drag such a box on the hump, well, to hell!

For example, I carry my 19-inch laptop with me anytime, anywhere. Previously, when I worked offline, I went to work with him. Because all the computers in the technical school were already quite old, and at the same time they were stationary! And I am used to sitting where it is convenient for me :) So that if anything, you could very quickly move to another table or to another room!

Less noise from laptop... In stationary computers, fans often make annoying noise, since they are bulky and the only way to reduce the noise is to change the fan to a better one. But at the same time, there is a fan not only on the processor cooling system, but also on the video card and power supply :) Noise is a place anyway. In laptops, this problem practically does not occur. Only in case of overheating for some reason, for example, in powerful games.

Takes up less workspace... For a bulky system unit, you need to look for a place so that it does not interfere somewhere in the legs and at the same time it must be placed so as to ensure normal air circulation. For example, you cannot press the system unit of a stationary computer close to the walls! The air will circulate very badly or not at all (if you squeeze it almost completely from the sides), which will lead to overheating! With a laptop, these problems are not observed. With him you can sit almost anywhere, even put on your stomach and watch a movie while lying on the couch :) For example, when I work from home, I can periodically change my workplace. In the summer I am often outside the city and my room, where I work most of the time, heats up during the whole day, because the sun is shining right through the window :) And in this regard, I often run to other rooms. What if I only had a desktop computer? Dragging it from room to room is a whole story!

Connectors for connecting any devices are right at hand... Those. you don't have to bend over (and sometimes crawl on your knees) to connect something to a stationary computer. After all, most of the connectors are located on the rear panel, and if you want to move some of them to a more convenient location, then again you will have to buy additional equipment: adapters, splitters, extension cords, and so on. You don't need anything like that in laptops. All the connectors, one might say, are at hand and you don't need to climb anywhere :) The main thing is that there are the right number of them, and especially this concerns USB ports, which we use most often and connect there a mouse, printers, scanners, flash drives, hard drives and a bunch of other equipment.

Lack of a large number of wires that go from the system unit... A power cable and a mouse will go from the laptop. This is the main and most necessary thing. Well, perhaps you will connect more speakers and MFPs (printer, scanner, copier).
But from the system unit, the power cable will be pulled into the surge protector, the cable to the monitor, the wire from the mouse, the wire from the keyboard. And this is the minimum! Whatever one may say, there are always more wires from the system engineer and they very often get confused and you get a whole web :)

Battery Operated... Everyone, even the cheapest laptop, has removable battery... After all, it is considered a portable device. The battery allows us to work for several hours without a power outlet in any convenient place with no power outlets. High-performance powerful laptops, in energy saving mode, run on a battery, without recharging, for about 2-3 hours. Less powerful laptops can work longer without recharging. But it still depends on how you use your computer. If it just stands there without any action, then the battery will not be discharged to zero in half a day :) Also, batteries of different capacities can be supplied with laptops.

And it is also important that if you do not use the battery in principle, then you can remove it and work on the laptop only from the mains. This will keep the battery from wearing out. I, for one, do just that. I spend most of my time at home in my workplace, and what is the point in this case to run on battery power? If only in order to protect against a sudden power outage, which will save the data on the computer with which this moment work was in progress. But this happens so rarely ... But if a battery is installed in a laptop and it is still connected to the mains, the battery will start to wear out quickly. In one of my old laptop, the battery thus failed in a year. It began to hold a charge for about 10 minutes :) And to constantly discharge and charge the battery somehow frankly bothers myself, given that power plans can still be configured in the system itself, which will constantly decrease the performance of the laptop (if the work is on battery power), then increase (if the work is carried out from the mains). Therefore, when you work in 99% of cases in one place near the outlets, it is better to remove the battery, and about once a month reinstall it and do a couple of charge-discharge cycles. Then take it out again.

On laptops, with all of the above advantages, you can perform all the same tasks that you perform on standard desktop computers: work, play games, watch movies and whatever. After all, this is the same computer in a reduced version :) The main thing is to buy a laptop with the appropriate characteristics! For example, if you are doing simple office and learning objectives then this is one thing. And if you want to play modern toys, as well as work with complex professional graphic editors or others powerful programs, then this is completely different, and the price of such a laptop will jump somewhere over 50,000 rubles. In general, in terms of what tasks will be performed, laptops, just like stationary PCs, are divided into gaming and budget ones - for office tasks. This is the simplest classification.

What disadvantages can be identified in laptops compared to stationary computers?

Always a higher price than comparable desktop computers with the same characteristics.

Desktop computers are always more productive... Even the highest performing laptops will always be inferior in performance to their desktop counterparts. For example, having bought a gaming laptop, it will always "pull" less modern innovations at maximum graphics settings than a similar desktop computer. This happens because all the motherboards in the laptop are greatly reduced, and as a result, their characteristics are also slightly cut. Take, for example, a desktop video game adapter and the one in a laptop. The size difference is huge :)

Laptops always get hotter than desktop computers... Due to the compressed size of the case, the air circulation will of course be worse, as a result of which the video adapter and processor get hotter. When working with the simplest tasks (documents, the Internet, films and the like), this may not be noticeable, but in games you immediately feel the heating of the components.

Laptops are very difficult to disassemble... If something happened to the laptop and you no longer have a guarantee for it (or maybe you do, but you know what the problem is and are sure that you will fix it yourself, because this is faster), then the disassembly process will be really difficult :) Each manufacturer and model has its own characteristics. Some are easier and faster to understand, but some take an awfully long time to tinker with (especially the first time). At the same time, you will never find instructions for disassembling a laptop in the kit and you will have to look for it on the Internet. But disassembling a laptop without instructions is a big risk to simply ruin it or not put it back together :) Disassembling a laptop may, for example, be required if it has been in use for a long time (several years) in order to notice the thermal paste (heat-conducting substance) on the processor and video adapter. The old one can already dry out over such a period and, as a result, the components will overheat. Therefore, after a long life of the laptop, it may be necessary to replace the thermal paste, for which you will have to completely disassemble it. And it can really take 4 hours or more, in the case of the first disassembly!

There are no disassembly problems in stationary computers! He unscrewed a couple of screws, removed the cover and you already have access to all the pieces of iron.

Accordingly, all these disadvantages can be attributed on the contrary - to the advantages of stationary computers.

Having already listed all the advantages and disadvantages, most likely a clear picture is emerging that, nevertheless, laptops are much more convenient, more mobile and in general, today they should be given more attention than bulky stationary PCs.

However, for some tasks it is better to take a stationary computer. Consider in what cases, what is better to buy.

When is it better to buy a desktop computer and when is a laptop?

So, which should you choose, a laptop or a full-fledged desktop computer? It all depends on what goals you are pursuing.

A desktop computer is worth taking:

If you plan to fully play the most modern games on your computer at the maximum graphic settings. In this case, the laptop will cope worse, it will come out much more expensive, and at the same time it may overheat. Still, laptops are not yet catching up with stationary computers in terms of their performance and, in principle, are more intended for work, rather than toys.

If you are going to work in complex, professional graphic editors or programs that require very high performance, and at the same time mobility is not important for you, then I can advise you to take a stationary computer. With this choice, you will not think about overheating, and also get great performance, as in the first case.

In both of the above cases, it is worth buying some cool monitor for a good system unit, on which modern cinematic games will look great and at the same time it will be pleasant and convenient to work with graphics. I talked about how to choose a monitor and other peripherals for a computer in the article:

A laptop is worth taking in all other cases... After all, they have such a number of advantages against bulky stationary PCs that if it were not for the above two reasons (well, maybe I missed something else), then these stationary computers would not have been popular at all.

Because everything can be done on laptops, even if they are more expensive. But what a convenience! I wanted to where I was conveniently located - in a couple of minutes I moved to another place, nothing interferes and does not make much noise.

In general, I personally like it! And, perhaps, if I don’t, God forbid, once a gambler, then I no longer have reasons to buy a stationary computer instead of a laptop :) system resources, then I would think about purchasing a powerful desktop computer.

The last stationary computer was not bought with my money (I didn’t work then), but my father, and that was about 6 years ago. It still works, but it just stands as an additional computer in the country :) You never know, someone will come and he will need it, then let him sit down and work for him ... Since then I have been buying myself only laptops.

This, perhaps, is all. And who is interested in how to choose a laptop for themselves, then soon (most likely in a week) they will be able to find this information in my latest article!

Have a nice day and the same mood :) See you soon!

Good day to all. Recently, the blog posts mainly step by step instructions, but today I want to distract myself and not bother you with endless screenshots of "how to do and where to click." Let's rest and speculate on the topic: which is better, a computer or a laptop?

Of course, it will not be possible to simply answer such a "holivar" question. Yes, and this is useless, although it still makes sense to evaluate what advantages each device has in order to understand what you need specifically.

It used to be easy. There were computers, there were laptops. Computers were usually much cheaper and much more powerful than their mobile brothers ... just a couple of years ago, I did not think that laptops would gain such popularity.

Our world is changeable, so now it is difficult to say: what is a computer and what is a laptop? I will try to consider the devices that are as close as possible to our usual computers and laptops. In conclusion, for each I will try to recommend for what tasks this or that device is suitable

To understand what is more interesting to us, I decided to highlight similar devices. Of course, I could be wrong, and if I have something to say - correct it, but my vision of the current situation on the computer market is as follows:

A computer
Stationary computer


Classic laptop

Convertible tablet

It is important to understand that I am only considering computers with x86 processors, which work perfectly in our usual Windows environment... Android and other devices, I consider it inappropriate to compare here, since these devices, with all their aspiration, cannot yet fully replace a laptop or computer. Who knows, maybe the future belongs to them ... but we are still living in the present!

Stationary computer

This is the same old man familiar to everyone. It was with such a computer that I began my acquaintance a long time ago, now I don’t remember when it all started. What do I want to say about him? A familiar system unit (which many, and probably even the majority, calls the processor), a Monitor (it is the same for all TV sets) and a keyboard with a mouse.

Its main advantages are the possibility of modernization, as well as, due to its size, good ventilation. Conventional desktop PCs are less susceptible to overheating than its compact sibling laptops. Another huge plus is high maintainability (although technologies are developing so quickly that sometimes it is not always possible to find a replacement for some component for a computer purchased half a year ago).

If there is good ventilation in a spacious case, then it is logical that more powerful and gluttonous components can be placed here, because the issue of heat transfer is not as acute as in the case of a laptop. In general, if a computer is in your home and you do not need it except at home, it will definitely be cheaper and more efficient to take it!

What is a Monoblock? This is a usual monitor for us, into which the system unit is “placed” (as a rule, laptop components are used. They heat less, take up less space ...) And I don’t even know what to call it: whether it’s a monitor with a built-in computer, or in general laptop bolted to the back of the monitor. But if a laptop is primarily mobility and the name itself reminds us of a book, then we will assume that the Monoblock is a familiar computer.

The only plus that I see is that it will take up less space from you, which, given their cost, is a very dubious pleasure. With its form factor, the advantages of a stationary computer completely collapse, and the problems of laptop hardware and cramped layout are added.

We finished about computers, now we turn to laptops, otherwise we will not answer the question. Which is better: a computer or a laptop?

Classic laptop

A laptop familiar to many, it is likely that you perceive it as your main computer and work tool. V currently laptops have gained their popularity due to lower prices and increased performance. If earlier we talked about a gaming laptop as something inaccessible and insanely expensive, now this is no longer the case.

Modern laptops have sufficient performance, and some may even show similar to a regular stationary (although the price will be noticeably higher than a regular PC) and quite adequate price tag. But there are also disadvantages: due to the fact that space is limited, then problems with overheating (and many people like to lie on the bed with a laptop, closing the ventilation holes for everyone), it is almost impossible to upgrade (improve), and often the screens of laptops do not impress with clarity and color reproduction. However, they are mobile, you can take them with you and work on the road, but it is expensive to carry it around with you all the time ... all the same, it is cumbersome and a little heavy.

Ultrabooks are a logical continuation of laptops, but they have one feature. Ultrabooks use energy efficient components and typically capacious batteries... The main task of an ultrabook is to be always at hand. Therefore, they are always: thin, light, cold and keep charging well.

Ulrabuk is perfect for those who constantly have to work on the road. Such an assistant will be simply irreplaceable (For example, my MSI X340 easily fits into a folder for papers and does not bother it too much)

Convertible tablet

The most fashionable and, in my opinion, absolutely useless combination. A hybrid of a tablet and a laptop (the keyboard is attached). There is no particular pleasure when using it as a tablet, and as a laptop it is also not very pleasant to work with.

I have collected all the shortcomings of a laptop and a tablet, although in the future I think a promising direction, but in the form that now - I do not see the point, and the price tag is transcendental.

About 5 years ago there was a boom in netbooks. ASUS presented its mini laptop, and other manufacturers did not stand aside and picked up the fashion. A netbook is usually a 10-inch screen, a weak processor and a capacious hard drive coupled with a powerful battery.

At the moment they are living out their own, almost completely supplanted by tablets. You won't really work on such a screen, a weak processor also makes itself felt ... so I think that they have a place in history, although for some it may be a good option, given their relative cheapness.

I am of the opinion (and I recommend to you) that a regular desktop computer is the ideal solution for the home. Although the candy bar is technologically advanced, it has no special advantages over a conventional PC. So if there is no need to lug the computer from corner to corner, then there is no need to even think about it: definitely PC The tight layout affected the heating, but you can take it with you. Relevant if you are a student and rent a house. In case of relocation, there will be no problems. If possible, take an ultrabook. It is lightweight, comfortable, and I consider everything else superfluous And there is no better, the best is what suits you

In contact with

As you already understood from the title - now there will be another duel. But, the battle of a desktop computer and a laptop cannot be a full-fledged duel, since, in principle, despite their functional similarity, these devices are slightly from different areas of application, each of which has its own specifics.

But, unfortunately, some do not see this rather clear line and finally "buried" for themselves the option of assembling or purchasing a system unit. This article is devoted to such, blindly surrendered to the "power of the laptop". Separately, one of the "wonders of the world" will be touched upon - gaming laptop, and some paradoxical nuances associated with his choice. At the end there will be results that should prove that desktop alive and will live.

Performance. We pay more - we get less

Let's start with the insides. Here, the clear leader will be the desktop and only it. In terms of price / performance ratio, it confidently breaks away from its portable, but more expensive opponent.

Considering desktop processors and mobile models, then again, we get more performance for a lower price from desktop systems... The same i5 - 3570 K, slightly bypasses in 3DMark processor tests Intel Core i7-3615QM, but as you can imagine, the prices are clearly not in favor of the i7-3615QM.

The same can be said about video cards. In laptops that are marketed as a replacement home pc, video cards are installed that can only morally support modern demanding games and applications. And about a comfortable game, there can be no question.

Of course, this is all offset by the much lower TDP of the components. laptop but in my opinion this is not a full-fledged excuse when it comes to performance.

So we slowly came to a very interesting and relevant topic.

The eighth "wonder of the world" or a gaming laptop. Features of choice

Very often I come across requests to choose a laptop on which any applications fly, and fps goes off scale in all, without exception, games, but the budget is quite modest. Most are well aware that this is impossible. But they are still trying to pick up a laptop as a gaming system or to work in applications that are demanding on system resources.

But you can also be surprised when it comes to obviously immodest budgets. Let's look at a fairly productive laptop asus N76VM, in the average configuration of which, similar to the one discussed above, the Intel Core i7-3610QM processor is installed. The price of the question (laptop) is $ 1300-1400, a lot, agree?

But I want you to pay attention to the video card. This device has a "mighty" GT630M, even if I chose the GT630M package instead of the 650M out of schadenfreude, this would not fundamentally change the situation. So, the GT630M is equipped with a 128-bit memory bus, even with GDDR5 memory. Video memory operates at 800 MHz, and the performance of this video card is comparable to the desktop model HD 6570. These words should be followed by a solid portion of "snorting" from inveterate gamers. Now answer the question: Would you put the HD 6570 on a $ 1400 desktop system? Of course not! With a budget like that, you can put in an HD 7950 or 7970, and then jump for joy and swallow a rainbow of radiating gaming performance.

And here covers for samsung s7 edge needed by everyone.

Want a truly gaming laptop? - Alienware M18x for $ 3500, with two 7970M graphics cards, at your service.
And for those who do not have extra “thousands of dollars”, but want to play everything at once, I suggest looking in the direction of desktop systems, and not even looking at laptops.

But not everything is as bad as it might seem, above we talked about the maximum performance in the most demanding games. But games are also different, so for a modest amount you can pick up a good parody gaming laptop, on which a lot of games will go badly or badly. For example, now the “processor AMD A10+ video card HD 7670M ". Also, you can pick up a slightly more "fun", but expensive option on Intel i5 / i7 + GT650M... But the basic concept remains the same - the laptop is not for gaming.

Simple advantages and disadvantages of desktop and laptop

Despite such an aggressive introduction towards laptops, it is foolish to state once again the fact that this device has a lot of advantages. Everyone understands perfectly well that compact laptops are in most cases much more convenient (in terms of portability) than a separate monitor and a system unit with a bunch of wires, which takes up a lot of space. Undoubtedly, portability also adds heat, and some users, realizing only these two factors, are ready to rush to buy a laptop. Perhaps for some it will be reasonable, but obviously not for many.

One of the leading advantages of a desktop, which stems from its size, is the ease of use. Whatever one may say, but it is much more convenient to work with a separate full-sized and, for example, an ergonomic keyboard, the position of which can be conveniently adjusted for yourself, rather than behind a laptop keyboard, with offset buttons and without additional digital block(often). Also, the minimization of the buttons themselves and a decrease in the distance between them are very often noticeable, which also clearly reduces convenience.

That is, to the main advantages that can be clearly "felt" in laptops, we can safely refer portability and compactness, and for desktops - this is undoubtedly convenience of work.

Despite the fact that for some the factor of convenience will be questionable, in contrast to people who do not have to carry a computer with them due to their "duty", it will not be very doubtful.

Upgrade, overheating and other distinguishing features of laptop and desktop PC

Now, we'll talk a little about the remaining features of desktops and laptops. Of course, it is impossible to cover everything in nuances, but at least the main thing.

Laptop and desktop upgrade

Notebooks have problems with upgrading too. Basically, this is where it ends up replacing / adding hard disk and RAM. Replacing the processor or graphics subsystem is much problematic, if not impossible. This leads to problems with laptop repair, which is more difficult to perform at home than in the case of a desktop PC.

Overheating laptop

The famous overheating problem in laptops, partially remains to this day, especially in productive models. Developers are constantly on the edge, because you need to place the same components in a small laptop case as in system unit but so that they do not overheat. For productive models, cooling pads are recommended, which obviously do not add convenience.

Desktop and laptop monitor

On a desktop computer, a monitor is a separate substance that, again, can be easily replaced. But the main advantage here is the diagonal. Oftentimes, laptops are limited in this. The 20 "diagonal for a laptop is just" mega ". In the desktop version, you can safely purchase a 27 ”monitor and enjoy life.

But that's not all. For working with graphics, only expensive laptops with high-quality displays are suitable. Most laptop models have a cheap and mid-range price, the image quality and color reproduction, by professional standards, leaves much to be desired. Therefore, only desktop monitors are suitable here, which will be larger, cheaper and of better quality.

Conclusions. So what should you choose?

In this case, everyone must make their own choice, however, as in everything in life.

A laptop is a good portable assistant anywhere, anytime. But only for those who really need this portability. A laptop often needs to be of either average or low performance level (in a reasonable concept). From portable device you need to surf the Internet, work in office applications, watch movies and other similar non-resource-intensive actions, in correct understanding... There is no need to try to make a universal device out of a laptop for all tasks.

If you want a gaming laptop for yourself, then the options for the development of events were indicated above. But before you pick up a parody of a gaming laptop, think about the desktop.

Most of the arguments about the unreasonableness of laptops refer to gaming, and parodies of mobile high-performance systems. If, for you, versatility in tasks lies in the same access to the Internet, office applications and multimedia, but at the same time it is desirable to sometimes take the device with you, then an inexpensive laptop will be an excellent choice for you.

A weighty and dimensional desktop is inferior to a laptop only in portability and compactness, in the rest - only solid pluses. Greater productivity, convenience of work for less money, cannot but be the arguments when choosing.

Of course, the performance of laptops will rise and the price will fall, but desktops will not "sleep" either, also increasing performance and the rate of falling prices. Therefore, for those who need everything and even more from the system, in terms of performance, they have used and will use desktop PCs in the future.

So, think well and weigh the pros and cons, when choosing, you need to start only from your needs and the tasks set for the system.

Everything that has been said in this article cannot take into account the specifics of each individual case. Therefore, I would be very glad to hear reasons why this or that choice was the best for you. I would be grateful for such additions, as well as clarification of nuances and analysis of controversial issues.Thank you for the attention!

This information can be used as a guide when choosing a computer or individual components on the Internet or in a regular store.

1. Processor

The speed of the entire computer is highly dependent on the processor, so it is chosen first. Processors produce two large companies Intel and AMD.

Intel Core processors generally have higher performance per core, thus outperforming processors AMD Ryzen in most modern games and are more suitable for building powerful gaming computers.

AMD Ryzen processors, in turn, win in multi-threaded tasks, such as video editing, in principle, are not much inferior to Intel Core in games and are perfect for a universal computer used for both professional tasks and games.

If your budget is limited, but in the future you want to have a powerful PC, then you can first purchase an inexpensive model, and after 2-3 years, change the processor to a more powerful one.

All processors, regardless of manufacturer, differ in the number of cores, threads and frequency. In addition, the processor may have an integrated video core, which saves on the purchase of a separate video card, but is not suitable for gaming computers.

For working with documents, the Internet and watching videos, a 2-core processor with a frequency of closer to 3 GHz or higher will be sufficient. A particularly advantageous solution would be a modern Pentium processor with Hyper-threading technology, which will allow a 2-core processor to process data in 4 threads, significantly increasing performance.

With the advent of such models, the more expensive Core i3 processors have lost their relevance, and the Pentium can be considered as a temporary solution even for games, with the prospect of replacing it with a more powerful processor (Core i5, i7) in the future.

A gaming computer needs at least a 4-core processor with a frequency closer to 3.5 GHz or higher (such as Core i3).
Intel Core i3 8100 processor

For a mid-range gaming PC, a 6-core Core i5 is fine. Also, modern games have learned to use multithreading, so for a powerful gaming PC, it is advisable to take the Core i7 (6 cores / 12 threads).

For video editing and other multi-threaded tasks, the best choice for today is Ryzen 5/7 (6-8 cores / 12-16 threads) with a frequency closer to 4 GHz, which will also allow you to comfortably play modern games.
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 processor

2. Cooler for the processor

To cool the processor, a cooler is used, which consists of a radiator and a fan.

Most processors with the word "BOX" at the end of the marking are sold with a cooler. However, some more expensive boxed processors may not have a cooler. If “Tray” or “OEM” is written at the end of the marking, then the cooler is not included in the package.

The weakest Pentium-type processors are easier and cheaper to purchase complete with a cooler. But a mid-range or high-end processor is often more profitable to buy without a cooler and separately select a suitable cooler for it. In terms of cost, it will be about the same, but in terms of cooling and noise level it will be much better.

Tower coolers with a 120 mm fan and 4-5 heat pipes manufactured by Zalman and DeepCool are currently optimal in terms of price / efficiency ratio.
Cooler for Deepcool GAMMAXX 400 processor

More detailed information is in the article and the review of the cooler on our website, and you can download the recommendations on choosing a cooler for different processors by.

3. RAM

V modern computers DDR4 memory is used with a frequency of mainly 2400, 2666 and 3000 MHz.

In games, the memory frequency has little effect and there is no point in overpaying, it will be enough to take at 2666 MHz, this is the most the best option for today, since it is supported by modern processors and costs almost the same as the slower one at 2400 MHz.

For professional applications, especially when paired with a Ryzen processor, you can take memory with a frequency of 3000 MHz. The difference in performance will be bigger here, but this should not be at the expense of the processor and video card. Please note that your motherboard must support the required memory frequency.

If one memory strip is installed, then it will work in single-channel mode, if two strips - in two-channel mode. This significantly increases the speed of the memory, so it is advisable to take the memory in two strips. But for office computer with a head, one 4 GB memory stick is enough.

For a multimedia PC, 4GB can be considered a cost-effective option with the option to add another 4GB in the future. But it is better to put 2 strips of 4 GB at once (for faster work in dual channel mode), this will be the minimum option for a gaming computer.
RAM Crucial CT4G4DFS8266

For a powerful gaming PC, you need 2 8 GB sticks, which are better and cheaper to buy in one set.
RAM Corsair CMK16GX4M2A2666C16

For professional video editing and other difficult tasks, it is desirable to have 16 GB or more of RAM, again with two slats. But in principle, in any case, you can buy one bar now and one a little later.

As for the radiators, modern DDR4 RAM with a frequency of up to 2666 MHz practically does not heat up and the radiators on it will be purely decorative. So, if you want, you can save on this, for example, by taking the excellent Crucial memory without heatsinks. Memory with a frequency of 3000 MHz or more has an increased supply voltage and heats up a little more, there will be heatsinks on it anyway.

Memory modules are made by many manufacturers and they are of different quality. The best memory is produced under the brands: Corsair, Crucial, HyperX. Good and inexpensive manufacturers include AMD, GeIL, Goodram, G.Skill, Team, Transcend. The Samsung and Hynix RAM are very popular, but there are many fakes among them.

4. Video card

The video card is intended primarily for games, but is also used in video processing, accelerating the playback of effects during editing and rendering by 5-10 times.

If a computer is needed only for work, the Internet and watching videos, then a separate video card is not needed and a processor with a video core will be enough. If the computer is supposed to be used for modern computer games, then you can't do without a separate video card.

Video cards are being developed by two large companies nVidia and AMD. NVidia graphics cards are marketed under the GeForce brand and AMD graphics cards- under the Radeon brand. NVidia GeForce graphics cards cost a little more than AMD Radeon, but the difference in price is not so significant (10-20%). I recommend nVidia graphics cards GeForce, since most games are optimized for them, as a result of which they show higher performance and fewer glitches. In addition, nVidia GeForce graphics cards are better suited for screen video recording, streaming and video editing.

Video cards like GeForce and Radeon are produced by many companies. I recommend choosing graphics cards from the 3 most popular brands that have proven themselves well: ASUS, MSI and Gigabyte.

Modern games require 3-4 GB or more of video memory. The bus width (128-384 bit) has receded into the background today, since modern video cards are equipped with a memory bus with throughput sufficient for each specific video chip. Well, of course, all modern video cards are equipped with GDDR5 memory or even faster GDDR5X, HBM (top models).

In this article, I will not consider all the nuances and technical features video cards, but I will recommend specific models.

Most affordable option at least for today it's GeForce GTX 1050... But it has a weak video chip, usually only 2 GB of memory and will handle modern games only at low graphics settings. As a budget option for playing at medium settings, you can consider GTX 1050 Ti with 4 GB of memory.
Video card Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GV-N105TOC-4GD

You can take a little more expensive GTX 1060, which is almost 2 times more powerful and is the most interesting option for today. It will provide sufficient frame rate for comfortable gaming at high settings in modern games. There is a 3 GB version, which is enough for most games. But some games require 4 GB of video memory, so if possible it is better to take the 6 GB version, which is also 10% more powerful in terms of the processor.
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 GV-N1060WF2OC-6GD Graphics Card

Video card GTX 1070 50% more powerful than the GTX 1060 and will provide dynamic gameplay at high settings in Full HD in all modern games. But if you want to have some headroom for the future, it is better to go for the GTX 1070 Ti, which is not that much more expensive. This is the best price / performance option for a powerful gaming computer.
MSI GTX 1070 Ti ARMOR 8G Graphics Card

Video card GTX 1080 It is only 8% more powerful than the GTX 1070 Ti, so it shouldn't be considered nearly 30% more powerful than the GTX 1080 Ti, which will provide unmatched performance at Ultra settings in Full HD and minimal acceptable performance at high settings in 4K. But for a comfortable game in 4K, you need to take a new top-end video card RTX 2080 Ti.

As for video editing, it is no secret for those who have been in the subject for a long time that using a video card accelerates video rendering by 5-10 times. But this requires the right graphics card, as not all models can be used for this purpose. The minimum option is a GTX 1060 3 GB, if you are also interested in games, then it is better to take the GTX 1070 Ti, look at your capabilities.

More detailed information is in, there is also a unique comparison table different models graphics cards for performance and price, which you can download at.

5. Hard disk

A hard disk drive (HDD) has a large volume (1-6 TB), but a low speed (120-140 MB / s). It can be used both for system installation and for storing user files, which is the most economical option. For most users, a 1TB HDD will suffice.

For a professional or an avid gamer, you may need a disk with a volume of 2 TB or more, see according to your needs. Western Digital are considered the most reliable HDDs, while they do not significantly differ in price from all the others, so I recommend them to you.
Western Digital Caviar Blue WD10EZEX 1 TB Hard Drive

Wd blue- the most common discs suitable for inexpensive office and multimedia PCs.

Wd black- combine high speed and reliability, I recommend using them in powerful systems.

6.SSD disk

Solid state drives (SSD) have a relatively small volume (120-960 GB), but very high speed (450-550 MB / s). They cost significantly more and are used for installation operating system and some programs to increase the speed of your computer.

Office computer SSD especially not needed, and it is expensive for him pleasure. For a multimedia PC, a 120-128 GB SSD will suffice. For a gaming PC, it is advisable to take an SSD with a capacity of 240 GB or more, since games take up a lot of space.

On a powerful gaming or professional computer, the best option is to install two drives - a fast SSD and a regular HDD for storing user files.

Among manufacturers SSD drives well proven: Samsung, Intel, Crucial, SanDisk, Plextor. As more budget options you can consider: A-DATA, Corsair, GoodRAM, WD, HyperX, since there are the least problems with them.
SSD A-Data Ultimate SU650 240GB

As for speed, the good fast SSD it is about 550/550 MB / s (read / write). For budget models it must be at least 450/350 MB / s.

In addition, SSDs can be built on different types memory. The most budgetary one is TLC. More durable and reliable MLC and 3D Nand, the better.

7. Optical drive

An optical (DVD) drive is a device for reading and writing CD / DVD discs. There are several types of modern optical drives.

DVD-RW (DVD Super Multi)- a regular recorder, suitable for most computers.

Blu-ray- a more expensive drive for reading and writing Blu-Ray discs, you need it only if you plan to use such discs to watch licensed video or record a huge amount of data.

Many consider this device to be outdated and unnecessary for modern PCs. But I still recommend using a DVD drive. Since it is inexpensive, it can be very helpful in some situations. For example, in case of problems Windows installations from a USB flash drive, for diagnosing and restoring the system, installing a network card driver from a disk from the motherboard after reinstall Windows(otherwise, you may not have access to the Internet and you will not be able to install any driver). And it’s just corny, you may need to write something to a disc and give it to someone, you won’t give your USB flash drive to everyone in a row.

Choose the cheapest model made by LG or ASUS, they will hardly differ in anything.

8. Motherboard

All other components are connected to the motherboard and the service life and stability of the computer depend on it. Don't put the most powerful processor on the cheapest motherboard, since the motherboard will not withstand heavy loads for a long time. Conversely, the weakest processor does not need an expensive motherboard, since this is money wasted.

The most important thing is that the motherboard has a suitable connector for installing the processor (socket). Purchase a motherboard with the same socket as the selected processor.

Most modern Intel socket- 1151 v2. Installed on it as processors entry level(Pentium), as well as more powerful and modern (Core i3, i5, i7).

AMD's most recent socket is AM4, which hosts Ryzen processors.

Each motherboard has its own processor that controls all the devices connected to it and is called a chipset. The functionality of the motherboard depends on the chipset and it is selected depending on the purpose of the computer.

For most computers with Intel processor motherboards based on B360 and H370 chipsets are suitable. Intel Chipset The Z370 allows overclocking processors with the "K" index and supports memory above 2666 MHz, which is not available on other chipsets. It is better to take motherboards that are positioned as gaming (GAMING), which have better sound quality, network card and various additional functionality.
Motherboard MSI H370 GAMING PRO CARBON

Motherboards for AMD processors Ryzen are built around their chipsets. The cheapest A320 chipset has no CPU overclocking capability, while the B450 does. Well, the X470 is equipped with big amount PCI-E lines for installing multiple video cards.
Asus ROG Strix B450-F GAMING motherboard

After choosing a chipset for your needs, you can start choosing a motherboard based on the connectors you need.

9. Power supply

The power supply must be powerful enough and have a small margin for the computer to work stably. In addition, the power supply must be of high quality, since the service life of all computer components depends on it.

If you are building a powerful gaming or professional computer, then it is recommended to purchase the power supply separately. If we are talking about an office or multimedia computer, then you can save money and buy a good case complete with a power supply, which will be discussed in the next section.

A modern high-quality power supply should have at least a simple 80 PLUS certification. Even better quality - Bronze, Silver, Gold.

For an office computer with a margin, 400 watts is enough. I do not recommend less, as these will be outdated models of dubious quality (unless, of course, we consider power supplies from expensive brands).

For a multimedia computer, it is advisable to take a 500 W power supply. It is not expensive, but if you want to install a video card in the future, then the power supply will not have to be changed. This power is definitely enough for a graphics card of the level of GTX 1060.

For a mid-range gaming computer, it is better to take a power supply from 600W with 80 Plus Bronze certification. The same power supply is suitable for a professional PC with powerful processor and a video card (GTX 1070/1080).
Block power chieftec Force CPS-650S

Well, for a powerful gaming system with a top-end video card, it is advisable to purchase a power supply unit from 700 W with an 80 Plus Gold certificate, since powerful video cards are very sensitive to voltage drops and ripples.

Well-established manufacturers of power supplies include: SeaSonic, be quiet! More optimal in terms of price / quality ratio are: Thermaltake, Zalman, Cooler Master, Corsair, Enermax, FSP. If you need a good and inexpensive block supply, then one of best options will be Chieftec.

More detailed information is in, and you can download the program for calculating the required power by.

10. Case

The case is designed to fit all computer components into it, has a power button, indicators, additional connectors, a ventilation system and sometimes cable management.

If you are building a powerful gaming or professional computer and purchase a separate power supply, then you need a case without a power supply. If you are building a mid-range office, multimedia or gaming computer, you can save money and get a good case complete with a power supply.

For a powerful gaming or professional system, it is better to take a more spacious case, otherwise there may be problems with the location of the overall components (video card, cooler) and with the organization of normal ventilation inside the case. Note also that the case must support the required length of the video card and the motherboard of the selected format. A full-size ATX motherboard won't fit in a compact MicroATX case.

Good cases are produced by: be quiet !, Cooler Master, Corsair, Chieftec, Fractal Design, NZXT, Thermaltake, Xigmatek, Zalman. AeroCool, Deepcool, InWin cases have a good price / quality ratio. Choose according to your taste

11. Monitor

For an office computer, the most inexpensive monitor with a screen diagonal of 20-21 ″ with a matte TN matrix is ​​enough.

For inexpensive home computer it is advisable to purchase a 22-23 ″ monitor with a matte matrix.

For a computer intended for watching movies and games, it is advisable to purchase a monitor with a diagonal of 23-27 ″ (the bigger the better) with a high-quality IPS or PLS matrix with a response time of no more than 8 ms and a screen resolution of 1920 × 1080 (Full HD).
Dell P2217H Monitor

The best manufacturers: Dell, HP and NEC, the more budgetary LG, Samsung and others should be chosen carefully. In any case, read reviews and reviews for specific models.

12. Columns

The better the speakers, the better sound they will give out. For an office computer, the most inexpensive plastic speakers of the Sven or Genius brands are enough.

For an inexpensive home computer, speakers from a 2.0 or 2.1 MDF system made by Sven are optimal.
Computer speakers SVEN SPS-619

If you want to get a higher quality, then you can consider acoustic systems brands: Creative, Logitech, Edifier, F&D, Microlab, Sven.

If you want to enjoy surround sound in games and movies, then look at the 5.1 systems of the same brands.

The power of each speaker in the system must be at least 7 watts. If you want more powerful sound, then about 15 watts. Speakers with a power of 30 watts each will sound very loud.

pay attention to physical dimensions columns, which are indicated on the website of the seller and the manufacturer. Determine in advance where they will stand.

In terms of color, the most versatile are black and black and silver. Wood-colored columns don't always fit well into your interior. But it's up to you.

13. Keyboard

The convenience of working with a computer depends on the keyboard. Any inexpensive but high-quality A4Tech or Genius keyboard is suitable for an office computer.

For a home computer, it is desirable to purchase a more comfortable multimedia keyboard with additional buttons and a palm rest. Gaming Keyboards in addition can have soft and rubberized keys.

Keyboards differ in the best price / quality ratio (in order of preference): Logitech, A4Tech, Genius.
Keyboard A4Tech Bloody B254

There are also many other quality, but more expensive brands: Razer, SteelSeries, etc.

14. Mouse

The convenience of working with a computer also depends on the mouse. Any high-quality A4Tech mouse is suitable for an office computer.

For a gaming computer, it is desirable to purchase a more comfortable ergonomic mouse with rubberized surfaces and additional buttons.
Mouse A4Tech Bloody V3

15. Mouse pad

If you have chosen a good mouse, then the mat should also be appropriate, as it greatly affects the operation of the mouse.

For a gaming computer, I recommend the A4Tech X7-200 mat or similar, which has a high-quality fabric surface and is perfect for a laser gaming mouse.