Laptop or Desktop: Which Is Best for a College Student?

Consider the Pros and Cons of Each Before Making a Decision

The choice isn't if you need a computer in college, it's what kind will be best for you. Some students have laptops; some students have desktops. How can you tell what your best option is?

Laptops

• Can bring it to class and use it for note-taking
• Can take it to the library or a study group session
• All of your information (notes, papers, research) will be in one place without much effort

• Can be damaged easily if not protected
• May not have as much memory as a desktop
• Can be distracting in class (IM, anyone?)

Desktops

• May have more power than a laptop
• A bigger screen can prevent eye strain (especially if you're looking at it all weekend!)
• Less likely to be stolen

• Can't bring it to class
• Takes up a lot of space in an already-cramped room
• Hard to bring home over the weekend