A few years ago, the normal tower computer was the best option for gamers. But, the market is now crowded with gaming laptops that several people prefer. Except that tastes in this area are largely relative. Don't know what to choose between a desktop computer and a laptop PC for gaming? You are in the right place. In this article, we give you the main advantages and disadvantages of the two types of computers, whether in terms of portability, scalability or price. We therefore remove the veil to allow you to choose a model that corresponds to your user profile.
Portability
The choice between a desktop computer or a gaming laptop depends largely on what you want to use it for. To find out, you must answer a certain number of questions: am I a nomadic player? Am I more addicted to larger computers that offer a wide choice of connectivity and customization? By answering these questions, you will know what to choose between a desktop computer and a laptop for gaming.
Gaming Laptop
Mobility is the main positive point of a laptop. If you are a gamer who likes to experience competitions in a space other than the office, you will definitely need a laptop PC. Still, you need to opt for a high-performance laptop to do most of what you can do with a desktop computer, wherever you want.
More compact than ever, the latest laptops give you the ability to play in places where you can't bring your desktop computer, whether that's a coffee shop or a plane. On the laptop, you will find an integrated display, a keyboard as well as a trackpad. However, it is not excluded to buy your own peripherals to enjoy games at home as if you were in front of a desktop computer.
Desktop computer
When it comes to portability, the point goes to the laptop, since a desktop computer, no matter how small, will still need a socket to be in use. While some don't mind carrying an entire tower for special occasions like LAN parties, most people limit their office experience to one location. With a desktop computer, you will be able to support I/O, but also connect other external devices that are very often found on the motherboard or even expansion slot devices connected via PCIe * like a separate graphics card.
Performance
While it may seem counterintuitive when purchasing a PC, performance probably shouldn't be a big factor in your decision. While laptops once had a reputation for being underpowered compared to their desktop counterparts, that's no longer always the case.
Modern gaming laptops can be incredibly efficient and powerful. While desktops may still have a performance advantage when it comes to high-end components and thermal considerations, the difference is much less pronounced than before.
Performance is mostly comparable, so let's look at the other factors you'll want to consider.
Hardware upgrades
Having a laptop can have quite a few drawbacks. We all know it: laptops are compact. And upgrading on this type of computer can be a real headache. Indeed, the processor and the graphics card being attached to the motherboard, which makes them difficult to access for an efficient upgrade.
While laptops, due to their compact nature, are more difficult to upgrade, this is not the case for desktop computers which have the advantage that their main internal components are easily accessible.
On laptops, you will find it easy to upgrade the RAM or storage memory quite easily. As for upgrading the GPU or CPU, you will have a hard time getting there. That being said, when you buy a laptop, know that you'll be using more or less the same internal components for as long as you have the device.
On the other hand, most desktop computers will do well with any type of upgrade. Due to the modular layout, components can be replaced. This gives you the ability to upgrade your hardware if necessary. Rather than buying your new machine when your PC loses performance, an incremental update can help you get your computer back to like new.
Personalization
In terms of customization, we can also differentiate between a laptop or a desktop computer for gaming. When purchasing a laptop, you have the opportunity to choose from a selection of basic components, including RAM, storage, screen, GPU and not forgetting the processor.
Furthermore, regarding performance tuning, you will have to use the equipment from the date of purchase until the machine is replaced. When it comes to desktops, it offers great flexibility in terms of customization. And for good reason: replacing hardware is simple, ensuring you have everything you need.
With a desktop computer, you will be able to benefit from performance that meets your needs. As the desktop PC is robust and has sufficient space, you will, for example, install a cooling system to improve its performance. With this solution, you will be able to install robust fans, all-in-one (AIO) processor coolers or even custom cooling loops that will provide optimal and precise thermal solutions.
Desktops also offer aesthetic possibilities. Besides the simple color of the case, you will be able to choose different sizes, brands, specifications and visual designs. When you buy a desktop computer, you have the option of going the prebuilt route. This way, the manufacturer can allow you to choose the components of your computer in order to take advantage of a high level of customization.
In short
When it comes to purchasing a desktop or laptop computer, there is no set answer. No device is prioritized or better than the other. It all depends on your preferences. You will therefore have to judge each element by degree of importance in order to choose between a desktop computer and a laptop for gaming.
What you need to know is that system performance relies on various components taken separately than whether you choose a desktop or laptop PC. You will find laptops on the market that emulate a laptop configuration, although the latter offer wider I/O support. As said above, it is very difficult to upgrade laptops.
Still, when choosing between a laptop and a desktop for gaming, there are a few key things to keep in mind. The laptop is smaller and therefore, by nature, easily transportable, while the desktop computer is robust and offers great customization possibilities.
We hope that through this article, you will now be able to choose between a desktop computer and a laptop for gaming. Now it's up to you to choose a device that meets your needs in terms of customization and portability.
