Now, not only do we have the problem of our computers being outdated very rapidly but we also need to decide which route to take.



Let's look at the pros and cons and identify what we will use our computer for so that we will be able to make an intelligent decision about it.

First let's look at the laptop. Obviously the greatest benefit to a laptop that is glaringly apparent is the mobility. This allows you to always be able to take your computer with you to work, school, on vacation, etc. At the same time this portability also allows anyone else the ability to walk off with your laptop as well. If this happens, not only are you out a computer but you have also lost all the data you had on it as well so security is a concern.

Another issue is the price difference. While prices have come down, there will still be a good disparity in the price of a laptop to a comparable desktop so you have to weigh that out as well. The difference is usually $400 or $500. Do you need the mobility enough to pay the difference in price?

Another concern with purchasing a laptop is the availability of parts and how upgradeable the unit is. Don't buy some off brand laptop that you won't be able to buy parts for and don't buy one that you can't upgrade later.

A big issue for me is the size of the screen, yeah size matters. If you get a laptop with a small screen you will be aggravated, trust me. I have a 17? screen on my desktop and a 15? on my laptop and it really makes a difference. You can get a laptop with a 17? screen, it will just set you back a bit more in cash outlay.

So ask yourself these questions:

Do I mainly use my computer at home or do I need it at work or school?

Do I travel a lot?

Will I use the laptop?

Am I willing to pay more for the convenience?