Just curious, I am thinking about getting a new computer and wondering if a laptop would work out for me and thinking a desktop might be best due to the overheating issues laptops have that a desktop is still the way to go. What are the pros and cons as you see them?

I prefer a desktop just because I build my own systems and I can easily upgrade or change out internals if there is a problem with something.

And I am more comfortable using my own chosen, monitor, mouse & keyboard.
And being able to adjust everything for my ergonomic comfort.
I have a chronic RSI type condition.
We do have a laptop also but I just can't use it for extended times, mainly dd uses it for classes.

But a laptop is handy if you like to move around in the house or outsideor for traveling.
they do make special fan /platforms that you can buy for the overheating issues

I don't know if certain brands/designs have more problems with that or not.

Laptop, for me, affords far more flexibility. I used to be "sold" on having a Desktop, and still have one, but it's too physically uncomfortable to use. I've barely touched a Desktop in the past 6 years.

As far as overheating? I've encountered that with my Desktop, but not my laptop (and I'm on my second). My first laptop? The hinges - computer-to-monitor - cracked.

I luv, luv, luv my current laptop! It was a gift. It's a HP special edition, VISTA. Not had any major prob. with it from the day I booted the first time in December, I think it was.

I agree with Bobbie,and have the same computer,love it,no problems. If I could build them like Jo and my brother,ahh well never going to happen,so
laptop.. Sue

Well I might be going back to school so I think I want a dell laptop, gonna get a extended service plan on it too so that I can count on it being fixed if it has issues. I have seen a cooling pad for laptops so I think I would pick one of those up too while I was at it. Thanks for posting Bibbi!

I like the big keyboard of the desktop. But if you need portability, you might prefer the laptop. If I ever get another laptop (I had one once)... I'm going to get a lighter weight one. Mine weighed 8 lbs. plus a leather case. I didn't like to take it out. It was one they refer to as a desktop replacement.

Pamster,

With the extended warranty: Also check the store's or the warranty from the place of original purchase. Several services were automatically included with mine - and at no cost to the purchaser/gift giver or to me. Those services proved to be far more useful than going direct through the manufacturer. For instance, the laser precision mouse was frozen after about 2 months. The place where purchased personnel got it replaced in like... wham! consider it done! (And, as it turned out, I made the boo-boo. I had inadvertently placed the battery the wrong direction .)


I have a cooling pad, for my older laptop, and one thing that helps keep it functioning well, too: Using the compressed air for cleaning it, along with the computer's keyboard, etc.


Sue: Don'tcha just love the "feel" of the computer? Its surface and touchpad-surround? I've never felt anything so smooth.

One thing I meant to mention is I will get one of these things:

http://www.protectcovers.com/

Check it out, under twenty bucks and keeps out grime of all kinds from getting in between the keys. I am going to get one for the Yahoo multimedia keyboard I share with jackie because he regularly spills drinks around here. BUt I will get one of those protectors for the laptop for sure. And I want to get the lojack locator anti-theft thing too, I think it will be a great system, but I worry about things breaking like hinges or the screen/monitor. How well do they wear?

Thanks for posting again Bobbi and you too Wiz!

Laptops and Desktops both have their perks. It depends on what you want. It's definitely more affordable for someone to buy a desktop for performance. But that's if you don't plan on moving it around anywhere.

Laptops can be amazing, if you're willing to spend the money on a very good one.

I think you're right on the money! Glad you posted.