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If you are new to gaming you may be unsure of whether a gaming laptop or desktop is the better option to choose. It is worth noting that they both have their pros and cons. Every individual has their own preferences and what will be suitable for one person, may not be for another.
This is why it is essential to look at both sides of the coin. In this article, we have discussed both gaming laptops and desktops in more detail. We have compared and contrasted key aspects for both to help you decide which is the better option.
Upgrading Options
If you are a seasoned gamer or a beginner, you have likely considered creating your own build. The more you delve into the gaming world, the more appealing this idea is. While there are many great towers you can purchase for gaming, customization and upgrading capabilities are important for many gamers.
With gaming, the components within a laptop can become dated after a few years, in particular the GPU, CPU, and even the motherboard and PCIe interface over time.
If you want to keep up to date with the latest technological developments, the ability to upgrade is important. The great thing about desktops is that they can be upgraded. While it can be fiddly depending on the component you are upgrading, it is a fairly easy process.
It is worth noting that some laptops do have the ability to allow you to upgrade RAM and storage. However, gaming laptops cannot be fully upgraded. It is far more difficult to achieve and many laptops have a memory that is soldered to the motherboard.
While it may be possible to make minor upgrades, you are limited to the GPU and the CPU that is within the laptop. Given this, the laptop will become less futureproof more quickly in comparison to a desktop.
While pre-built PC’s can be more difficult to upgrade, they are easier to upgrade in comparison to laptops.
Overall Performance
The overall performance of the desktop or laptop that you choose is important. The performance of a laptop and desktop is subjective to an extent, this is because it will depend on the overall price range.
For example, a more expensive laptop or desktop is going to be better than one that is more affordable. However, as a general rule of thumb, if you compare a desktop and a laptop of a similar price, the desktop will be better overall as desktops are more powerful than laptops.
In addition to the desktop performing better, as it is bigger its cooling will be more successful, which is important. Desktops will have a better heatsink and can be cooled with a cooling liquid. You cannot use this with a gaming laptop. While these may only seem like small differences, they are significant.
Portability and Weight
The biggest advantage of a gaming laptop over a gaming PC is its portability. This is particularly great as you can easily transport a laptop with no issues. It is compact and does not require the use of any cables other than the charger. You can use a laptop anywhere in the house or on the go.
In addition to this, gaming laptops are becoming significantly thinner and lightweight, making them more portable. However, not all gaming laptops are lightweight, and while they are easier to transport some are not as lightweight.
A desktop is far more difficult to transport and will also require moving the additional components such as the keyboard, and monitor. While smaller builds are easier to transport, they are still more difficult to transport in comparison to a laptop.
In terms of weight, a gaming desktop will be far heavier than a laptop
Additional Accessories
When you purchase a laptop or a desktop you will need to take into consideration the different accessories that you need. While you may opt to purchase a mouse to attach to your gaming laptop it is not essential.
A gaming laptop comes with everything you will need. This is useful if you are looking for a quick and cheaper purchase. If you want to transport your laptop you will also need to purchase a laptop case. The majority of laptops do not come with a case.
When you purchase a gaming desktop, there are many other components that you will need to take into consideration. You will need a monitor, mouse, and keyboard at the least.
In addition to this, you will also need a desk to have the correct setup with a desktop. While you can also use a desk with a laptop, it is not essential as the laptop is portable.
Cost
Following on from the accessories needed, the cost is also important. What is great about laptops is that as they are one piece of equipment, you will not need to worry about additional costs unless you want to purchase a mouse or laptop bag.
However, when purchasing a desktop, you will need to take into consideration the price of a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. You may also need to purchase a desk too.
While a gaming desktop may often be more expensive to purchase up front in comparison to a gaming laptop, due to customization options it is likely to stay futureproof for longer.
As gaming laptops cannot be customized, eventually you will need to purchase a newer model if yours is outdated, which can cost more in the long run.
Which is Better for Gaming?
This question is fairly difficult to answer as it will depend on the individual needs of a person. For example, if you are looking for a portable option, a laptop is brilliant. However, if you want to futureproof or customize your purchase a gaming desktop will be the better option.
While gaming desktops tend to be the preferred option within the gaming world, gaming laptops are growing in popularity and are still a great choice.