Choosing between laptop and desktop computers for college students

Computer for a College Student

Various factors need to be taken into account when buying a computer for a college student. Firstly, a student's budget is generally not very large, so a budget type computer is probably best. Another consideration is what the computer will be used for, and whether the computer will need to be moved often for this purpose. This will determine whether a desktop or laptop will be the best choice for the student.

Possibility 1: Dell Inspiron E1505

The Dell Inspiron is a budget notebook computer. One of its advantages is that, instead of the solo single core processor used by most budget notebooks, Dell offers a Core Duo T2300 processor with this one. This means that performance is significantly boosted, while battery life remains long. Along with this, it has 512MB of PC2-4200 DDR2 memory.

A drawback of this computer is that other costs needed to be reduced to include the processor and remain within the budget. To do this, the system was constructed with only a 40 GB hard drive, which does not compare well with other notebooks. The system has no DVD burner, but features a 24x CD-RW/DVD combo drive, with which the user can create music or watch DVDs.

The screen is standard, with a 15.4" wide LCD panel. In terms of graphics, it features the Intel GMA 950 integrated graphics. This however lacks the power for many of today's 3D games. In terms of software, the notebook includes only the Word Perfect 12 program, with no other productivity software, which will have to be purchased separately.

The notebook would be a good idea for a student who has to do a large amount of field research. This computer is convenient for collecting field data. The student who is greatly interested in gaming might however opt for a different choice. The software also lacks the inclusive package that many students would need for calculations or technical data.

Possibility 3: Gateway DX430S Budget Desktop PC

This desktop includes in its price peripheral devices such as the 17-inch widescreen LCD panel, which eliminates the external cost required by most budget systems. The system is based on the Intel Pentium D. 925 dual core processor, which handles multitasking well. It lacks the larger memory of most desktop PC's, and does not include a DVD burner. However, its completeness may be attractive to many.

Of the three computers mentioned above, I would prefer to buy a desktop rather than a laptop, as they appear to be more complete in terms of software normally used by students. Furthermore, students who need to collect field data can make use of other devises, included tape or video recorders. According to the features needed, I believe that the desktop in Possibility 2 above is the most sensible choice.

Sources

Kyrnin, Mark. Dell Dimension E521 Review. About.com, 2007. http://compreviews.about.com/od/budgetdesk/gr/DimensionE521.htm

Gateway DX430S Budget Desktop PC. About.com, 2007. http://compreviews.about.com/od/budgetdesk/gr/GatewayDX430S.htm

Dell Inspiron E1505 Review. About.com, 2007. http://compreviews.about.com/od/budgetnote/gr/InspironE1505.htm