Desktop Computer
A desktop computer is the kind in which the case, the screen and the keyboard are separate pieces, designed for use in a fixed place. Its power and its upgradeability are what stand out.
| In brief | An upgradeable computer with a separate case, screen and keyboard, designed for use in a fixed place. |
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| What it does |
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| What to look for |
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| Privacy note | On a shared desktop computer, opening a separate account for each user stops personal files and passwords becoming mixed together. |
| Limits | It is not portable and may call for extra budget for a separate screen, keyboard and uninterrupted power supply; it also takes up space. |
Why is it still chosen?
Portable devices may have spread everywhere, but the desktop computer keeps three lasting advantages. The first is value for money: the same budget will usually build a more powerful system than a laptop. The second is upgradeability: parts such as RAM, storage and the graphics card can be replaced in most cases, which can extend the life of the device by years. The third is cooling: a roomy case reduces the drop in performance that heat causes during demanding work.
Who does it suit?
A desktop is a sensible choice for people doing demanding work such as gaming, video editing, graphics and software development, for those working long hours at a fixed desk, and for anyone wanting to spend their budget on performance. Ready-built systems offer ease of setup, while choosing the parts and assembling them (or having them assembled) gives the flexibility to spread the budget according to need. The screen, keyboard and mouse are usually not included in the price, which should not be forgotten when working out the total budget.
What to look at when buying
The intended use sets the priorities among components: a balanced processor and an SSD are enough for office work, while the graphics card comes to the fore for gaming and graphics work. RAM capacity, the type and size of storage, the room for expansion in the case and the quality of the power supply are the other main headings. If quiet matters, look at the cooling design. There is a wide choice on the second-hand market too, though warranty and the age of the parts call for care.
Related terms: Laptop, RAM, Hardware, Storage