---
title: "Desktop computer vs laptop — size, weight and speed compared"
description: "Desktop computer is 6.3× laptop on weight. Compared on 5 measured properties, with the full range and a source for each."
url: https://atoneplace.net/vs/desktop-computer-vs-laptop/
site: "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×.

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## Sources

- Typical range compiled from manufacturer specifications — At One Place (/about/)
- ENERGY STAR Product Specifications — US Environmental Protection Agency (https://www.energystar.gov/) [Public domain (US Government)]