Gaming laptop vs gaming desktop which one is better? Gamers have more options than ever when it comes to computers. Pre-built gaming desktops range from budget options to high-end custom or semi-custom versions. Users can also build their gaming PC with parts of their choice and upgrade them whenever they want.
While desktop computers are still popular, many users now choose gaming laptops for gaming that’s why we have to find out the question Are Gaming Laptop than Gaming Desktops?
Gaming Laptop vs Gaming Desktop which one is better?
Gaming desktops traditionally perform better than gaming laptops because they can house more powerful graphics cards and a wider variety of hardware. Laptops also have limited space for airflow and cooling features. The gap between the two options has closed in recent years, and the introduction of the Razer Blade in 2011 was a game-changer for laptops.
Modern technology allows businesses to pack more powerful hardware into the smaller footprint of a laptop, and there are newer technologies to improve thermal performance.
This article looks at the advantages and disadvantages of gaming laptops vs gaming desktops to compare their performance, durability, price, and other factors to help you decide which type of computer is best for you so let’s go.
What about Gaming Desktops
There is no doubt that desktop computers have been the favorite choice of gamers since the very beginning. Gaming desktops are cheaper than laptops when comparing similar specs. Desktop computers also offer convenient upgradeability and broader compatibility.
Advantages of Gaming Desktops
Upgradeability
Another reason for the popularity of desktop computers is their ability to upgrade. While there may be some limitations as hardware ages, most desktop computers allow users to upgrade components such as RAM, CPU, GPU, and storage drives.
This factor is important because modern game files are always larger and require more resources for their high-resolution graphics. Instead of replacing the entire computer, users can simply replace the components needed to run games.
Upgradeability is directly related to repairability. If any component breaks on a desktop PC, users usually can’t find a replacement from multiple providers. The ability to replace parts on a desktop PC extends its overall lifespan and saves users money.
Customization and Modularity
Gaming desktop PCs offer a lot more customization options than laptops. Some companies, like iBuyPower, allow users to pick and choose each component and build a desktop to their exact specifications. Users can choose everything from the case to the GPU to the cooling system, and it’s designed for them.
Pre-built gaming desktops from manufacturers like Asus and Alienware offer limited customization options. Users can choose performance components, such as GPUs, RAM, and processors, but cannot select case and cooling options.
Custom Built Gaming Desktops
Many gamers prefer to build their unique desktop to save money. The modular design allows builders to choose all components, from the AIO cooler to the case and everything in between. Once all the parts arrive, the builders are tasked with putting the PC together themselves.
Monitor Size
When building or buying a desktop PC, gamers can choose the best screen size to suit their needs. Competitive gamers may run 24-inch 1080p monitors, while other gamers may use 4K, widescreen, or other options.
Stand-alone monitors are also easy to replace if they break or if users want to upgrade without replacing the entire system.
Cooling and Airflow
Desktop computers offer better airflow and cooling compared to laptops. Since desks have more interior space, it is easier for air to circulate through them. The extra space gives users more cooling options, and they can decide how many cooling fans they want or prefer a more efficient all-in-one (AIO) water cooler.
Performance
Having more space also affects performance. Gaming desktops often perform better than their laptop equivalents because they house full-size components rather than cut-down versions. Having better cooling and airflow also helps improve desktop performance because every part works in optimized conditions.
One of the best examples to illustrate the above point is with graphics cards. Nvidia’s RTX 3090 is their high-end graphics card, but it’s only designed for desktops with no laptop version currently available. While Nvidia makes both types of cards for the RTX 3080, the desktop version is around 40 percent more powerful than the mobile one.
Disadvantages of Gaming Desktops
Mobility
Gaming desktops are bulky and difficult to move around. The case tends to be heavily based on the number of components it houses, and monitors become difficult to transport as they get larger. While this is generally the case, there are some exceptions to the rule.
Some users prefer the compact mini-ITX or micro-ATX versions with smaller cases. If these builds are paired with a small monitor, they can be easier to transport than their mid-tower ATX siblings.
Parts availability
While most components are easy to find, others, like GPUs, can be difficult to find due to limited availability. One of the most obvious examples is Nvidia’s 30-series GPUs. A year after launch, these GPUs are still in short supply, meaning buyers need to look at alternative options.
The shortage of GPUs has a direct effect on the price. Nvidia’s RTX 3070 graphics card launched at the same $699 price as the old RTX 2080 despite being newer and having better performance.
While both cards have the same recommended price, the RTX 3070 costs around $1,500 due to low supply and high demand.
What about Gaming Laptops
Gaming laptops offer unmatched portability and simplicity. Everything from the monitor to the webcam to the keyboard is built into a gaming laptop, so users don’t have to worry about buying them separately. Gaming laptops can run the latest games and are the only options for people who travel often due to their compact design.
Advantages of Gaming Laptops
Portability
Without a doubt, the biggest advantage of gaming laptops is their portability. Users can easily fit a laptop and peripherals, such as a mouse and headset, into a travel case and take them on planes or trains.
Plug and Play Nature
Gaming laptops have built-in sound, webcams, monitors, and other devices, making them easy to set up and use. Buyers get everything they need in one device and don’t have to worry about finding compatible peripherals to get the system up and running.
That said, most gamers still buy aftermarket mice and headsets to get the best gaming performance out of their laptops.
Disadvantages of Gaming Laptops
High Price
While gaming laptops can be more expensive than desktops, it depends on many factors. The high costs of modern GPUs and faster monitors can drive the price of desktops higher than laptops, especially when you consider the other necessary components like mice, headsets, and keyboards.
When factoring in the long-term cost of ownership, laptops are priced higher because they have limited repair and upgrade options. Users cannot replace or upgrade parts and must purchase a new laptop when the current one becomes obsolete or has a fault.
Gaming laptops cost more than gaming desktops. Looking at both options with similar performance, the laptop is almost always more expensive.
That said, the price of desktop PCs can exceed the price of a laptop if you add a monitor, speakers, keyboard, mouse, and headphones.
Also, check out our top list of Best Gaming Laptop Under $1500 Our Top Picks in 2022.
Limited Repair and Upgrade Capability
Most gaming laptops offer limited upgradeability. Users can upgrade the RAM and storage capacity, but parts like the CPU and GPU cannot be replaced because they are built into the motherboard.
While most desktops are easy to open and upgrade, laptops are different and some can be quite difficult to take apart. Opening a laptop can also void the warranty, so it’s best to check the user manual before attempting to repair it.
Integrated components also make it difficult to repair damaged gaming laptops. If the CPU or GPU fails on a gaming laptop, users may need to replace the entire system instead of replacing the part if the unit is out of warranty.
Smaller Screen Size
Another area where gaming laptops lag behind desktops is screen size. While desktop users have plenty of options when it comes to screen size, laptop users are generally limited to 15.6-inch and 17-inch options. It’s possible to add larger aftermarket monitors to a laptop, but it adds to the already high price of the system.
Lower Performance
Manufacturers have to downsize components to fit in a laptop. Some components, like the CPU, have a different design than their desktop counterparts. These parts are designed to fit a specific laptop motherboard rather than being a universal fit for all devices.
There simply isn’t enough room in a laptop for a full-size desktop GPU, and lower-performing mobile builds are the usual answer. While gaming desktops have traditionally performed much better than laptops, the gap has narrowed.
Modern high-end laptops offer competitive performance but come at a high price that isn’t feasible for most gamers who don’t need a highly portable gaming PC.
Which one is the Best for You?
For most users, gaming desktop PCs are a much better option than laptops. Comparatively, desktop computers cost slightly less and offer better performance. They can be more durable on a case-by-case basis, and users can upgrade or replace components as needed.
On the other hand, gaming laptops are better for people who require a portable solution. They are compact enough to fit in a bag and allow users to play on the go. While they are expensive, there is no substitute for the player on the go.
Between the two options, desktops are the best option for users who want the best performance and customization and repair options. Laptops are best for users who travel frequently or need a degree of portability when traveling to and from work.
Upgradability of Gaming Desktops vs Laptops
Of course, what draws many to PC gaming is the ritual of building your rig. You can’t build a laptop on your own. But a desktop computer is not as difficult as it may seem for beginners is. And when you build your own, you can further customize and upgrade it in the future.
Just want a better GPU? or Faster RAM? That’s easy to add. And even if you want a new CPU that requires a different type of motherboard, you still have a case and power supply you can keep using (and there’s bound to be a market for your used parts).
When everything is replaceable, desktops gain upgradability Prebuilt desktops get a bit more complicated. Some of them use proprietary motherboards that are not standard in size, so they are more limited in their ability to upgrade.
But you can still change the RAM, GPU, and CPU (as long as you use the same chipset). Most laptops let you swap out the RAM and storage, though some of the slimmer machines have the memory soldered onto the motherboards.
There are some improvements on the laptop front. For example, the Alienware Area-51m has a replaceable desktop processor and a modular GPU, as we saw in our teardown.
But that’s a very large laptop, and those parts are much more difficult to access than on a desktop. It’s also in the minority: most laptops don’t offer that level of customization.
Performance of Gaming Desktops vs Laptops
Desktop vs laptop performance Much of the performance has to do with the specifications you choose. If you buy a $3,000 gaming laptop, you’re sure to beat an $800 gaming desktop. But all things being equal, a gaming desktop will be more powerful. Similar components will work better on desktop computers.
A larger chassis and more fans allow for better cooling and heat dissipation, and lower temperatures mean higher performance. Desktop computers also allow for liquid cooling, if you prefer.
Mobile CPUs and GPUs from Intel, AMD, and Nvidia aren’t as strong as desktop ones, though they come close in some cases. And some innovations in the laptop space have bridged the gap. But the highest-end parts with the best overclocking potential are on desktop platforms right now.
Portability of Gaming Desktops vs Laptops
Overall, this is an easy win for gaming laptops. After all, even gigantic 17-inch systems eventually fold up and fit in a bag. The slimmest gaming laptops, often with Nvidia’s Max-Q GPUs, can easily fit in a backpack and not pack outrageously large chargers.
Some machines, with desktop components, require two massive bricks. But either one is easier to transport than a gaming desktop, and the monitor and keyboard come with it. Now if you make something small, like a mini ITX build, that may be portable enough for some to take to a LAN party, especially if you have a car.
But even that requires a lot of peripherals and a monitor to use. Similarly, building your PC will come with its cost challenges. The last few years have taught us that upgraders are at the mercy of the market when it comes to components.
GPU prices have skyrocketed considerably in the last couple of years, and that’s when stock is available. The total cost of your build can far exceed the value-packed into your components here, meaning that the key upgrade you’ve been saving up for may be out of reach fast.
It’s also worth noting that the portability of a gaming laptop can greatly influence the price. These machines aren’t limited to the home, which means they can also easily double as on-the-go work machines, which could take extra cost out of the equation if you’re looking for an all-in-one machine.
So overall, a pre-built gaming PC will likely offer the best value for money, a gaming laptop will offer solid value thanks to its flexible all-in-one design, and a DIY PC will likely require considerable work to be profitable. Once you factor in cheap gaming laptop deals and gaming PC deals, those savings can multiply, too.
What to Consider when Buying a Computer or Desktop?
Are you buying a computer? Then you are in luck and you are in the perfect place to know what things to consider when buying a computer. Compared to a laptop, buying a computer is easy. If you follow the 10 important things when buying a computer, then you have an amazing setup desk with you.
The computer can do a lot of work for you and it would save you a lot of time. Today, this whole world is completely dependent on the computer and it can be the main source of entertainment or even income. Since the computer has great opportunities for you, why should you compromise when buying a computer?
Think of yourself as a professional and a developer while shopping for a computer so that you can buy a highly configured computer. If you think you are a novice, you can buy a computer with a low configuration, and surely there will come a day when you will be disappointed by the configuration you have purchased.
So I recommend you follow these 10 things while shopping for a computer to experience happiness for a long time.
Brand
For a lot of people, branding matters…and for good reason. Some brands are immediate winners, while others are less so. If you’re the type of user who takes pride in the brand of their devices, or who believes that some brands are simply superior to the competition, this should be your priority.
Each popular PC brand often excels in different areas to minimize competition as much as possible, so if you can’t decide which brand to go for, you can further break down your needs by asking if one offers better (and sometimes more) warranties than your rivals.
Some brands may not have the best warranty deals, but they may offer better software packages. Proprietary software you may be interested in purchasing later may be offered as a package by a particular brand, so you may want to consider it even if the entire unit may cost more than other brands.
Most Sony Vaio models tend to be more expensive than other good brands because they offer interesting software packages that you will otherwise have to pay for separately later on. Other brands may not have exciting software packages, but their hardware specs may be the highlight.
Acer computers generally offer cheaper drives, but their hard drive and memory capacity are still above standard.
Volume
Size is often the second thing most users consider when buying computers, especially laptops. Some may like their monitors to be large for viewing enjoyment, while others may prioritize portability by choosing smaller ones.
Desktop users may choose bulkier cases to allow for better ventilation, while some may want to save space by getting a smaller tower. If you plan to put a desk in a large room, size shouldn’t matter.
We recommend that you choose the one with a larger tower to give the system as much ventilation as possible. If you’re constantly on the go, choosing a laptop with a smaller screen might be a good choice.
Usability
Most home users typically purchase computers to use primarily for browsing and light office and school tasks. If you are this type, you should avoid sales pitches that promote performance. In many cases, vendors in stores will list the most expensive computers first, highlighting amazing specs for video cards, processors, and hard drive capacity.
Unless you want to do graphics-heavy tasks like video editing, gaming, professional 3D work, and so on, we suggest you avoid expensive equipment. If you know that all you want to do is browse the internet, chat with friends, or do some classwork, you can always save your hard-earned money for other features at a later time.
For those hoping to play the latest PC games or work on video tasks at home, they should choose the best performing PC within their budget. High-performance PCs can be further upgraded at a later date to give you even more processing power, hard drive, and RAM capacity, so make sure investing in the newest model available is a better option.
OS
Most of the time, the Windows operating system is sold in different flavors, with the more expensive editions usually offering more features. For example, Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system is offered in four different editions: Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education. Each of these editions has a different list of features, so be sure to do some research before you buy one.
Some stores will usually ask a customer which Windows operating system to install on their machine, so be sure to do your research ahead of time. Editions with more features are more expensive, so unless you need a particular feature that is only offered in the most expensive edition, do some research to save some money.
For example, Windows 10 Home edition doesn’t offer a full disk encryption feature called BitLocker, so if you’re serious about hard drive security, you should choose other editions.
Peripherals
If you want to go online to watch DVDs on your laptop, for example, be sure to consider that your machine has a built-in DVD reader or optical drive. Keep in mind that the more peripherals a machine can handle, the bulkier and more expensive it will be. I
f you can live without installing something on your laptop via an optical drive, it may be a great option for you to simply skip it for a slimmer, cheaper model.
Hard Drive Capacity and Speed
Deciding whether to get a 500GB or 1TB hard drive is often beyond the average user, but we suggest you consider it, especially if you plan to save a lot of photos or videos later on. Of course, the larger the capacity of the hard drive, the better, but you also need to consider the cost. More advanced users may doubt whether or not to get a SATA drive or a SCSI drive.
If you can’t decide which hard drive to get, ask yourself what you want to do with your computer. Again, if you’ll be using it primarily for light tasks, like surfing the Internet, you may not necessarily need a special hard drive like a SCSI. Capacity may be important to you, but only if you plan to store large files in the future.
Processor
Just like the hard drive, many average users tend to leave the choice of the processor to whatever drive they like after considering the above things. A processor is a critical computer component that can often make a computer’s performance enjoyable or annoying.
For cheaper PCs with lower-end processors, performing light tasks like browsing the Internet may be fine, but once a user starts loading multiple applications simultaneously, performance can start to suffer.
Having a good processor can mean the difference between a computer that constantly freezes or crashes and one that delivers a flawless experience. The general rule of thumb when choosing a processor is to stay in the middle, not too cheap but not too expensive either.
Try to get a range of available units with their corresponding processor and compare prices. Then choose the one in the middle unless your budget can afford a faster one.
Remember, if money is not an issue, it is always better to go for the more expensive ones as they tend to operate efficiently and are expected to deliver better performance.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
When choosing a processor, especially if you can afford it, the more RAM you can get, the better. RAM is important for users who regularly run games and other applications at the same time. If you like to multitask or jump between apps, more RAM can offer smoother performance. However, for most light tasks, basic RAM may suffice.
Depending on the application that will be using your computer most of the time, choosing the right type of RAM can be important, so be sure to do more research on what is best suited for your computer’s use.
Warranty
Although almost all new computer purchases come with warranties, some brands may have better deals than their rivals. Of course, the usual warranty is one year from the date of purchase, but many stores will extend the standard manufacturer’s warranty up to several years if you’re willing to pay for it.
Prices for warranty extensions vary, of course, so if you want to make sure your machine is covered for a long time, try shopping around first before deciding which warranty offer best suits your needs. Some warranty terms may be worded vaguely, so make sure you understand them before you pay.
Prices
There are different ways to look at prices when comparing gaming laptops and desktops. For example, $1,000 probably won’t get you a great gaming laptop, and for the same price, you could put together a top-tier gaming system from scratch. On average, a gaming laptop will cost you twice the cost of setting up a gaming desktop.
With a gaming laptop, you’ll need to invest in a monitor, a mechanical keyboard (if it didn’t come with a keyboard made especially for gaming), and a mouse. When building a gaming PC, your costs can vary depending on the components you choose.
For most players, it takes a special pride to know that they are playing on a system that they know like the back of their hand. Something you have custom-built for your own needs, rather than investing in a pre-made machine.
Serious gamers know the value of being able to upgrade their gaming system over time, and with a gaming laptop, there’s not much you can do. Let’s say you want to install a better GPU when it hits the market; Even when you have the budget for it.
You’ll find it impossible to do it on a laptop, leaving you with no choice but to stick to an older, slower one. realization system. Regardless of which side of the debate you lean towards, one thing that certainly comes in handy is an investment in a specialized gaming chair.
People also Asked
Why are Laptops more Expensive than Desktops?
Why are laptops more expensive than desktops? The main reason is the way they are built and the hardware that is used in them. Desks are only made for home or office use while seated and next to them. But laptops are the best sign of portability, lightness, and durability, even on a single charge.
That is why they are more expensive than desktop ones. You might be surprised to know that with the money you buy one high-performance or most efficient gaming laptop, you can easily buy two or the most advanced and best hardware-equipped desktops at half the price of that specific laptop.
What is the main difference between Laptops and Desktops?
The main difference between laptops and desktops is that laptops are portable and desktops are not. Laptops are typically smaller in size than desktops, making them more convenient to take with you when you travel.
Desktop computers typically have more powerful hardware than laptops, making them more suitable for tasks like gaming or video editing. However, desktop computers can also be more expensive than laptops.
If you’re looking for a computer that you can use for both work and play, a laptop is a good option. If you need a machine that can handle powerful tasks, like gaming or video editing, then a desktop is the way to go.
Keep in mind that desktops generally require more space than laptops, so make sure you have room to fit one before you buy.
So, look what a big difference it is. You can also check out some of the best gaming laptops in this gaming laptop buyer’s guide.
But first, let’s take a look at the benefits that laptops offer over a desktop and these are probably the reasons why they are overpriced products.
Are Gaming Laptops more Expensive than Desktops?
So yes, gaming laptops are more expansive than desktops due to development costs to create hardware that is compact enough while still meeting the expected level of performance. And it’s not just performance that’s a huge challenge.
It also keeps the system cool enough to maintain stability under most common usage conditions. A laptop is similar to the ones inside a desktop, but if you compare them, you will find that the desktop is much faster than the laptop.
But still, laptops are decidedly more expensive than desktops, even though they seem to have a lot less power.
Gaming PC vs Gaming Laptop Which is Better?
A regular tower PC has traditionally been the best option for gamers, but gaming laptops have come into the spotlight recently. A laptop is also more useful if you don’t have a lot of space at home, as its small form factor means storing it away is as easy as putting a book on a shelf.
A gaming laptop might also be better if you’re a less demanding gamer or don’t want to upgrade in the future. After all, if you’re not going to take advantage of a desktop computer, why choose one? So while gaming desktops still provide top performance, that doesn’t mean they’re necessarily right for you.
In general, gaming laptops last longer than regular ones. Laptops designed for gaming can have a longer lifespan than normal laptops and vice versa.
It depends on how well you maintain the laptop, how well they are designed, and the type of work they do. Also, check out Top 10 Best Gaming Laptops Under $800 Dollars Expert Reviews in 2022.
Are Laptops Slower than Desktops?
Laptops are slower than desktops because they offer mobility and therefore have smaller parts, while desktops with larger parts provide quality and efficiency for the same cost.
There are faster and more powerful computers available, but considerable power comes at a high price, so they will be more expensive than desktop PCs.
Conclusion
Right now, if you need to buy a new machine soon and want to start gaming on it as quickly as possible, a gaming laptop is your best bet. It is the cheapest option given the current global circumstances, and there is no way of knowing when the situation will improve.
If you like building PCs, you’ll never love your laptop the same way you would a desktop PC. You’ll end up spending more money, but if you can afford it, that satisfaction may be worth it, as long as you’re quick enough to snag a component when it’s available.
So I hope this article is useful for you, if you have any questions to ask then hit the comment section below. I am here to answer you.