Laptop or Desktop? Which Is Right for You in 2024

You need a new computer and you're stuck at the first hurdle: laptop or desktop? It's not as simple as it used to be. Laptops are more powerful than ever, desktops are more compact, and there are weird hybrid things in between.

Let me help you figure out what's right for you. No tech jargon, just practical advice based on how you actually use your computer.

Get a Laptop If...

You Work in Different Places

This one's obvious, but if you work from home, cafes, clients' offices, or move between rooms in your house, you need a laptop. No argument there.

What to look for: Good battery life (at least 8 hours), light enough to carry without complaint, and decent screen quality if you're staring at it all day.

You Don't Have Much Space

In Edinburgh tenement flats, space is at a premium. A laptop on a stand takes up far less room than a desktop setup, and you can tidy it away when you need the table for dinner.

You Want Everything in One Package

Laptops come with a screen, keyboard, webcam, and speakers built in. No cables everywhere, no separate bits to buy. This matters more than you think.

Get a Desktop If...

You Never Move Your Computer

If your computer lives on your desk and never leaves, a desktop gives you more power for less money. You'll get a bigger screen, better keyboard, and a machine that's easier to upgrade later.

You Do Demanding Work

Video editing, graphic design, gaming, or running multiple programs at once? Desktop computers can handle more without breaking a sweat or sounding like a jet engine.

You Like Proper Screens and Keyboards

A 27-inch monitor beats any laptop screen. A proper mechanical keyboard is nicer to type on. If you're using your computer for hours every day, comfort matters.

Important note: You can use external monitors and keyboards with laptops too, that's what I do. Best of both worlds.

The Cost Difference

Here's what you actually pay for equivalent power in 2024:

Budget computer for web browsing and email:

Laptop: £350–500
Desktop: £300–400 (plus £100–150 for a monitor)

Mid-range computer for work and some creative tasks:

Laptop: £700–1000
Desktop: £500–700 (plus monitor)

High-performance for professional work:

Laptop: £1500+
Desktop: £1000–1200 (plus monitor)

What About All-in-One Computers?

All-in-one computers (like iMacs) sit between laptops and desktops. They're tidy, look nice, and save space. But they're expensive and hard to repair or upgrade. I only recommend them if you value aesthetics highly and don't mind paying extra for it.

My Honest Recommendation

For most people in 2024, I recommend a laptop with an external monitor you can plug into at home. Here's why:

You have flexibility to work anywhere
At your desk, you get a proper big screen
When you upgrade in a few years, you keep the monitor
If your computer needs repairs, you can still use it as a desktop with the monitor while it's being fixed

The only exception is if you do really demanding work (professional video editing, 3D modelling, gaming) or you absolutely never need portability. Then get a desktop.

What About Tablets?

iPads are brilliant, but they're not computers. They're great for consuming content, watching things, browsing, reading, but for proper work, you still need a laptop or desktop. If you already have a computer and want something for the sofa, get a tablet. If you need to replace a computer, get a computer.

Need Help Choosing?

If you're still not sure what you need, I'm happy to have a chat. Tell me what you actually do with your computer and I'll recommend something specific. No obligation to buy through me. I just want you to get the right thing.

And if you do buy something and need help setting it up, transferring your files, or getting it working properly, that's what I do.

Questions about computers? Give me a ring: 07352 385477 or email rob@curly-it.co.uk