College> Getting Ready> Buying a Computer

desktop or laptop?

The choice between a desktop and a laptop for school is tough. Each one has its advantages and you should make your decision based on 3 different elements: budget, use and size.

Budget

Although computers have gone down in price significantly in the past 5 years, they are still pricey. For students especially saving money on school items is critical, choosing the right computer can save you hundreds. The difference between a low end desktop and laptop from dell is around 300-400 dollars, after shipping and basic extras. With that amount of money you could get yourself an Ipod, or save it for living expenses. But before you make the choice on money alone you should read the other factors below.

There are some great deals on computers for students. Most of these are posted either on the school website or sent in print before you head off to school. So you should investigate and do your research and see where you can get the best price. I know that apple has particulary generous deals for students and the savings run into the hundreds of dollars.

Use

How do you plan on using your computer? Do you just check your email and type up your work occasionally? Then you probably don't need a high end system and a laptop is a viable option. If you use your computer for graphic intense games then a desktop might be a better option.

Are you planning on using your computer to take notes on in class? Then obviously a laptop is the best choice. You should look for one that you will be comfortable carrying around and that offers a decent battery life of 3+ hours. If you have the chance to handle the laptop make sure it looks and feels durable. A computer that is shuttled between classes every day will suffer much more than one that just sits on a desk.

Another thing to consider is that with a desktop you will have the option to upgrade it to better fit your needs. On a laptop you can add more memory if want, but not much else. But that with computer prices being so low, it might not be worth upgrading anymore and you should just figure and buying a new one when you need it.

Size

Dorms are never large and it is a constant battle to keep your stuff from taking over. Something to consider is that the desks in dorms are often small and a large desktop might leave no room for anything else. Desk space quickly becomes a valuable commodity.

Another thing to consider is theft. You generally get pretty close to your hall-mates, but there are always visitors around that might be willing to make a quick buck stealing your things. Both desktops and laptops you can lock onto your desk through use of a wire lock like any you could find at a site like amazon. For desktops you will need a small padlock for the back and if you are planning on bringing a flat panel monitor you will need to lock that as well. When you get to school you should check and see if the campus police allow you to register your computer. They will engrave it making it difficult for thieves to resell.

Students are a transitory population in general and you might not want your computer slowing you down. You will probably go home for holidays and at least the first summer, having a desktop will make this much more difficult.

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