Is a laptop considered a PC? What are the differences between laptops and desktops? The answer to these questions predominantly depends upon consideration and usability. PC is an acronym for personal computer, and for me, as an intermediate user, this phrase is independent of the operating system running in it.
For stack developers, gamers or professionals, the terminologies do matter with change in OS, profile, and more; therefore, I summed up the similarities and differences between a PC or desktop and laptop in this article. By the end of this conversation, you’ll stand in a position where you know which gadget you need to meet the working requirements successfully.
Is A Laptop Considered A PC?
Yes, A Laptop is considered a PC because laptops have the same components of a personal computer. Laptops have everything that you can use in pc.
By definition, a personal computer is any system that fulfills the criteria of individual use, for instance, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, or even your smartwatches. Conversely, the computer systems based on Windows are typically considered PCs, while Mac operating systems are called MacBooks. In contrast, other gadgets like Nintendo, wristwatches, tablets, iPads, and more are not specified as computers.
Laptops might fulfill the category of PCs, but then there is another terminology called “desktop.” Some debates cited laptops not as desktops considering their portability, operating set up as they are battery-powered, and interface which can be used without a mouse. In contrast, desktops are challenging to relocate and are usually kept in specific computer tables or office counters for work.
In 2023, it seems like laptops have been around forever, but that’s not the case as only four decades have passed since the world introduced “laptops.” So, to end the confusion between two terminologies and understand more about “Is a laptop considered a PC?”, there is a highlight of some similarities and differences that help you in choosing the suitable gadget. Let’s begin!
Similarities Between PC And Laptop
Both PCs and laptops are considered the same primarily for their similar functioning; for instance, they included: Central processor, graphical processor, hard drive, a keyboard, RAM (random access memory), mouse or pad, or display. The operating system, for example, Windows or macOS, is similar in both devices, as far as you’re comparing both gadgets with similar internal specifications.
The power is pretty similar in terms of performance if you’re doing routine work, such as video calls, internet browsing, writing, or more. However, when you put a heavy load on a PC like editing, designing, gaming, or developing, you’ll notice a prominent difference between both. Despite those parallels, there are engineering or internal differences among both, so let’s move onto that:
Differences Between PC And Laptop
The primary difference you can see between a laptop and desktop is in size or portability, as laptops are much more compact and lightweight, which means it is a packed version of all the hardware a personal computer holds. When those internal parts adjust in a lap-size arrangement, the heat dispersion, RAM modification, and storage enhancement become nearly impossible.
In a nutshell, laptops have less powerful processing units than desktops because a CPU needs clocking and turbo-tuning to reduce heat load and work at faster stock speed, which is challenging to follow in sleek designed laptops. On the other hand, desktops have an Intel PC chip setup rather than the mobile-only chip, which facilitates faster working than the laptop version.
On average, laptops weigh a minimum of two pounds or a maximum of eight pounds and come in a sleek, foldable design that could be carried in a backpack while traveling. It would be insignificant to compare laptops with desktops or PCs when it comes to portability because a computer weighs up to thirty pounds and comes with individual controlling components like a mouse, keyboard, monitor, CPU, so the idea of carrying it on your shoulders is not possible.
Referring to the conversation, the graphic processors are primarily divided into two: built-in or integrated graphic processors and standing or discrete graphics. The CPU in-built graphics found in laptops are not compatible with advanced or professional-grade gaming or programming. However, they are fine for casual work. In contrast, the stand-alone graphic processors commonly found in PCs or desktops are capable of modern heavy-duty games.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I use my laptop and PC together?
You can connect windows to windows using an ethernet cable! The procedure is pretty simple: connect one side of that cable with your PC and plug the other side into the laptop. The port looks like a square, so make sure to plug it right. After that, go to the control panel on the first computer and turn on the dual-processing setup.
What is the purpose of a laptop?
Laptops are compact or sleek versions of processing computers that feature more portability and convenience. Based on their handiness, laptops are similar to tablets, but people also categorize them as PCs considering their desktop-like counterparts. The primary purpose of purchasing a laptop is when you need to take your working gadget or entertainment source with you wherever you travel!
Is a laptop considered desktop or mobile?
As far as portability and sleekness are concerned, laptops are more similar to smartphones or tablets. However, considering their operating system, interface, and counterparts, they can substitute your PCs. To know more about the differences and similarities among these two, please read this article!
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Do You Need A PC Or A Laptop? – Conclusion
The choice of gadgets depends upon your requirement and budget; for instance, if you perform intensive tasks like video editing, designing, professional gaming, and more and primarily work from home, there is no better option than having a PC or desktop. In comparison, users who do computer tasks on a lighter note and frequently travel to the office or university should buy a compact, lightweight, and portable gadget like a laptop.
In conclusion, laptops tend to offer portability but are not compatible with heavy-duty computing tasks. The CPU integrated into those mobile-like gadgets is slow processing due to lack of clocking and proper heat release. Conversely, PCs or desktops can perform professional tasks, all credits to their heavy-duty counterparts and processing system. In a word, that’s enough details about “Is a laptop considered a PC?” to make you decide what’s best for you!
Thanks for the read!
Sadi Emily is fantastic technical review writer who has several years’ experience in content writing. She dedicatedly writes in her free time to provide the users truthful and up-to-date reviews about the tech devices.
