At One Place

Desktop computer vs Laptop

Desktop computer vs laptop
Desktop computer is larger on weight
Desktop computer is 6.3× laptop on weight.

A desktop computer and a laptop can be compared on 5 measures. The figures below are typical adult or full-size values, with the larger of the two in bold.

Side by side

Larger value in bold. Ranges reflect genuine variation, not uncertainty.
Desktop computer Laptop
Weight 3–25 kg 0.9–3.2 kg
Height 20–60 cm 11–30 mm
Typical lifespan 4–10 yr 3–8 yr
Typical cost 350–4,000 $ 250–3,500 $
Power draw 50–700 W 15–200 W

What the numbers say

  • Desktop computer is 6.3× laptop on weight.
  • Desktop computer is 25× laptop on height.
  • Desktop computer is somewhat greater than laptop on typical lifespan — about 1.2×.
  • Desktop computer is somewhat greater than laptop on typical cost — about 1.1×.
  • Desktop computer is 4.4× laptop on power draw.

Weight compared.

Desktop computer 3–25 kg
Laptop 0.9–3.2 kg

Desktop computer

A non-portable computer in a case, separate from its monitor and keyboard.

Laptop

A portable computer with the screen, keyboard and battery in one folding case.

This is a comparison of published measurements, nothing more. It describes how two things differ on measures that have been recorded; it does not predict how they would fare against each other in any situation.

Common questions

Which is bigger, desktop computer or laptop?
Desktop computer is 6.3× laptop on weight. Both figures are typical values; the full range for each is in the table above.
How do desktop computers and laptops compare on height?
Desktop computer: 20–60 cm. Laptop: 11–30 mm. Desktop computer is 25× laptop on height.
How do desktop computers and laptops compare on typical lifespan?
Desktop computer: 4–10 yr. Laptop: 3–8 yr. Desktop computer is somewhat greater than laptop on typical lifespan — about 1.2×.

Related pages

Sources

  1. Typical range compiled from manufacturer specifications — At One Place
  2. ENERGY STAR Product Specifications — US Environmental Protection Agency (Public domain (US Government))

How these figures are compiled and checked