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You wanted to buy a new PC but confused between; a laptop or a computer. Do not panic; the debate of laptop vs. desktop is accurate for all the obvious reasons. You will observe some pros of the device but couldn’t neglect the cons.
The desktop has several parts attached to it and is designed to use in one place. On the other hand, a laptop is a compact device and is also portable. The power supply of both devices is also different. The price variation is also noticeable. In a nutshell, both devices have their specifications and features.
An important consideration while making a decision is price. The price clash between laptops and desktops is enormous. But the price difference can hook you, as laptops are pricier than desktops. You can wonder why are laptops more expensive than desktops.
This article will cover why are laptops so expensive. I will explain all the essential considerations, and then the decision will be yours. Step on the device that will work according to your specifications.
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Why are laptops more expensive than desktops?
It is believed that the root cause of the laptop’s price is its development. The laptops are designed compact, yet a powerful processor/hardware is installed for a smooth performance. Hence, the hardware is the key reason why do laptops cost more than desktops.
Desktop computers usually run much faster than most laptops. But still, the laptop price is high than a desktop price. There are numerous reasons why the price difference between laptops and desktop is prominent. I am listing some primary reasons for a clear understanding.
Cooling system
The most challenging feature of a laptop is its cooling system. The laptop cooling fans are kept shorter than the desktop computer. But even smaller cooling fans are designed to maintain their efficiency. For the system’s stability, the cooling fans prevent a laptop from overheating.
An upgraded fan assembly and efficient heat sinks are essential components of a laptop cooling system. So, the embedded cooling fans increase the manufacturing expenses of a laptop.
Related Article: 10 Gaming Laptops With Best Cooling Systems In 2022
Portability
One of the significant differences between a laptop and a desktop computer is portability. The laptops are portable and easy to carry; however, desktop computers are restricted to a single location.
A laptop can easily be detached and used without the hustle of connectivity or other accessories. On the other hand, a desktop’s size, space, and joined parts make it impossible to carry. Due to this portability factor, many people are switching from desktop to computer.
A laptop is indeed a suitable choice for office workers, freelancers, travelers, and students for on-the-go use. Modern hardware makes the laptop handier, light-weight, and compact. So, portable components make laptops more expensive than desktops.
Battery
A battery is a vital component of the laptop. The desktop computer is silent on this feature; direct electric current power it. The laptop’s battery can be charged and used without the plug-in. The battery is used to prevent the laptop from overheating and physical damage. The battery itself is not expensive, but the battery’s cost adds up to the laptop’s overall price.
The compact size components of the laptop use less power. Screen size is also a significant factor behind energy usage, and the laptop screen is smaller than the desktop screen. So, laptops are more power efficient than desktop computers. That is why; a laptop can run over a battery, and a desktop computer cannot. Due to the power efficiency, laptops are more expensive than desktops.
Motherboard
Even though laptop and desktop computers have almost similar components and functions, the desktop is cheaper than the laptop. The embedded components require more technology and automation to maintain the laptop’s compact size.
The circuit pathway is well-designed so that the interconnected components sustain their functions. The challenging work of the small motherboard raises the price of the laptop.
Related Article: Do Laptops Have Motherboards?
Higher demand
As mentioned above, people are switching to laptops because they are easy to carry and use. Students, office workers, and freelancers prefer a laptop over desktop computers. People have to travel with their gadgets and laptop serves the purpose.
In recent times, the desktop user percentage has been falling rapidly. People prefer to invest in a costly laptop due to its portability. So, laptops are more in demand, no matter the price.
Following the law of supply and demand, demand is directly proportional to price. The popularity of laptops tends to an increment in the average laptop price.
RAM
The laptop RAM is smaller than the desktop RAM. RAM used in desktop computers is DIMM; however, RAM installed in laptops is SODIMM. The exception is that the RAM of the desktop is much greater than the laptop RAM. But it does not affect the price of a laptop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are laptops getting more expensive?
The latest coronavirus pandemic is the reason behind it. In that online era, the laptop had become a necessity to cope with work or education. For online classes and work-from-home culture, laptop demand was increasing. According to the law of supply and demand, more demand leads to more supply. This ultimately increases the price of laptops. So, laptops are expensive right now.
Is laptop cheaper than desktop?
Well, the answer can disappoint many. No, the laptops are not cheaper than desktops. It is because components price exceeds to maintain the compact size of the laptops. So, the final cost of a laptop is greater than a desktop computer.
Why are gaming laptops more expensive than desktops?
Gaming desktops show better performance than gaming laptops due to more powerful processors. But gaming laptops provide ease of portability and are travel friendly. Gaming laptops are expensive due to their powerful processors and fast monitors. Both have their own pros and cons. So, it is your personal preference whether you want a gaming laptop or a gaming desktop.
Conclusion
I have summed up the reasons why are laptops more expensive than desktops. When you next visit the store, remember the reasons behind the pricier laptops.
Choose the device according to your preferences. If you are a student and portability is your prime consideration, check the category of laptops. To help you, I have reviewed Best 2 In 1 Laptops Under 700 USD, do check out.
I hope this guide will provide knowledge on a laptop vs. desktop price. If you have any suggestions or queries, you are always welcome.
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