What kind of computer should I choose?

	Description	Pros	Cons
Desktop Computer	Standard non-portable computer.	•  Cheapest computing option •  Flexible in swapping out parts, monitors and input devicesWarranty support handled on campus	Not portable
Laptop Computer	Lightweight computer, offer full computing functionality. Includes monitor, keyboard, and other peripheral devices	Portability offers flexibility in using at home, remote sites and while traveling. Note for mobile personnel, purchasing a laptop with a port replicator is preferred to purchasing both a desktop and a laptop.	As compared with a desktop computer-•  More expensive •  Easily stolen; •  Less flexibility in swapping out parts. •  Easily stolen, dropped, or damaged. Most warranty support handled via shipping to manufacturer
Profile Computer	A desktop computer that substitutes a small case for the desktop computer case. Built in monitor, must connect keyboard, and other peripheral devices	•  Same functionality as a desktop computerWarranty support handled on campus	Slightly more expensive than a desktop computer .Not portable

 

Do I need the more expensive option?
Most campus users are fine with the less expensive option. It includes plenty of computing power for standard office and teaching tasks – e-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and creating webpages and presentations. The more expensive option is for users of heavy statistical, graphics and desktop publishing and engineering work: those who use Arc GIS, AutoCad, and Adobe Creative Suite (formerly PageMaker and Photoshop).