Desktop computers usually outlive laptops. They’re easier to upgrade and repair, making them a great choice for long-term use. However, I still stick with my laptop because it has a few key advantages over its desktop counterparts.
I Need Convenience and Portability
Laptops are unbeatable when it comes to portability. Whether working at home, at a cafe, or on the road, my laptop goes wherever I go. Desktops certainly offer more computing power, but they can’t follow me to a different room or location when I need a change of scenery.
Portability also means I don’t lose valuable time. If I need to go to an event, meet with friends, or do errands around town, I can bring my laptop and work during downtime. This flexibility lets me adapt my work environment to my needs. You don’t even have to go too far to find the benefits of a portable computer, you may just want to move to another room, work on the sofa, or get some fresh air on the balcony when the sun starts shining. This level of convenience and portability is something that a desktop computer simply cannot give.
Cloud Services Extend My Laptop’s Capabilities and Longevity
The rise of cloud services has redefined what laptops can do. Platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive help me keep large files off my laptop’s hard drive, reducing clutter and enhancing performance. With less strain on storage, my laptop stays snappy and efficient for longer.
Cloud-based apps also eliminate the need for hardware upgrades as often. I can edit videos using online tools like Canva, collaborate in real-time through Google Docs, and even run complex simulations using remote desktop services. These technologies transform a mid-range laptop into a powerhouse without overloading its hardware.
Beyond performance, cloud backups offer a safety net. If my laptop malfunctions or gets stolen, I won’t lose critical data. Everything I need is accessible from another device. This reassurance makes laptops feel less disposable, even if they technically have a shorter lifespan than desktops.
It Allows Me to Work During a Power Outage
A built-in battery is one of the biggest advantages of using a laptop. Desktops rely on a constant power supply, but laptops can keep running for hours during a blackout.
During these times, my laptop keeps me connected and productive. Whether responding to urgent emails or finishing an important project, I don’t have to wait for the power to return. For someone like me, who often works on tight deadlines, this is invaluable.
Some people invest in a backup generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for their desktop setups. These solutions will work, but only for short-term emergencies (a few minutes to hours). The fact is that desktop PCs typically require hundreds of watts (300 – 600W) to run, this drains your battery power backups significantly faster than a laptop ever would.
So, if you’re preparing for over a day-long power outage, a laptop and a small portable power station will prepare you for longer and cheaper.
I Can Use It as a Power Bank During Emergencies
Here’s something most people don’t think about: a laptop can act as an emergency power bank. If my phone’s battery dies during an emergency, I can charge it using my laptop. This feature has come in handy more times than I can count, especially during road trips or power outages.
For instance, during a recent storm, I lost electricity for several hours. My laptop not only kept me working but also kept my phone charged. Staying connected during emergencies is crucial, and my laptop plays a key role in making that happen.
Some laptops even come with high-capacity batteries and Thunderbolt ports that can charge other devices multiple times. While this isn’t the primary reason I use a laptop, it’s a feature I’ve come to appreciate.
Desktops shine in areas like raw performance, longevity, and customization. They’re great for gamers, designers, and anyone who needs heavy-duty computing. But for me, a laptop wins every time. Its portability, ability to adapt through cloud services and usefulness during outages make it an essential tool in my daily life.
While desktops might last longer, laptops keep me connected and productive, no matter where I am or what challenges arise. For those reasons, I’ll choose a laptop over a desktop.