The Life of a Notebook Versus a Desktop

Notebook and desktop computers may contain similar hardware, but their lifespans can vary considerably. The incidental wear and tear from portable computing can eventually cut a notebook’s life short, while the more complex computing demands made of a desktop PC may render it obsolete before its time. Choosing your computer with an eye toward longevity can save you money by eliminating the need for frequent replacements or upgrades.


Usage
One of the key factors that define the effective lifespan of a computer is what programs you intend to run. Games and audiovisual processing programs demand the most out of a machine, meaning that if you plan to use these kinds of applications, you will find your machine obsolete more quickly than if you use it to run less demanding programs. A state-of-the-art desktop gaming machine might last two years before beginning to seriously show its age, while a notebook computer used primarily for word processing and web surfing could last much longer.

Wear and Tear
Another factor that can affect the lifespan of a computer is damage. Since notebooks are portable, they are much more likely to suffer accidental damage than a PC that spends its life residing on a desk. Cracked screens and keyboard spills are two common notebook maladies, and repeated damage can shorten the lifespan of any portable computer. Most damage is repairable, but as a computer ages, the repair versus replacement cost equation shifts more in favor of purchasing a new machine.


Battery Life
One of the biggest limitations of notebook computer life is the battery. Modern rechargeable batteries are designed to withstand as many charge and drain cycles as possible, but each one slightly degrades the battery’s performance, reducing the amount of charge it can hold. Careful power management can extend the life of a rechargeable battery, but eventually all power cells will fail. Replacing the battery on an older notebook can greatly revitalize the machine, adding to its effective lifespan.

Upgrades
The ability to replace individual components can greatly extend the life of any computer. Most notebooks include some capacity to upgrade system components, but the ability to do so is usually limited to things like memory and peripherals. Desktop machines, on the other hand, offer the user the ability to replace components at will. Manufactured PCs sometimes include proprietary components that are difficult to replace, but if you build your machine from retail parts, you have more options. The owner of a home-built PC could theoretically keep the same machine forever, simply replacing old components as they wear out or become obsolete.

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