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Electronics
In this report
Laptop or desktop?
Consider security
ELECTRONICS FORUMS
Get real-world advice from others about choosing a new TV, digital camera, computer or cell phone.
March 2006
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Laptop or desktop?

Woman at laptop
WIRELESS FREEDOM A laptop allows you to use the Internet from Wi-Fi hotspots in some public locations like cafes.
Unlike past models, today’s workhorse laptops perform much like desktops. But there are still reasons to choose one over the other that go beyond portability.

If you’ll use a laptop mostly at home, built-in wireless networking lets you use it throughout the house and easily store it when it’s not in use. And while all the Windows desktops tested are tower models you can place below a desk, the keyboard, mouse, and display take up more space on a desk than a laptop does.

What you get in return are greater storage capacity, memory, multimedia features, and expansion flexibility. Also, desktops cost less overall (prices start at roughly $400, plus another $75 or so for a CRT monitor, compared with $700 for laptops), and their more standardized designs translate into lower repair costs.

See our latest Ratings of laptop and desktop computers (available to subscribers) and other related information.


   

STEP 3:

Laptops, what kind?