Stuck in the middle of a decision to purchase a laptop or desktop PC? It’s an age-old debate that has no clear-cut winner. It ultimately comes down to what your needs are and what you’re willing to sacrifice since each device has strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each device type so you can make an informed decision on which is best for you. If you want a quick summary, you can jump down to the “Quick Take” section at the end of the article.

Laptops combine the keyboard, monitor, mouse, speakers and the rest of the PC components into one small device. They have all the functionality of a desktop PC and can also be used as a tablet in the case of 2-in-1 laptops.

• Portability: First and foremost, laptops prioritize portability. Some modern laptops weigh as little as two pounds and are designed to be carried around without causing you back problems. You can work or access your files from anywhere, provided you have adequate battery power or your AC adapter on hand. Battery life is constantly improving with laptops too, with some boasting up to 15 hours of computing juice.
  
  You can slip nearly any model easily in a standard bag or backpack. 2-in-1s make them even more portable since you can disconnect the keyboard monitor portion and use it as you would a tablet. This is great for passing around the device in collaborative environments like classrooms or small meeting spaces. Laptops can’t be beat in this respect, particularly if you’re a digital nomad.
  
  
• All-in-one design: With a desktop PC, all the traditional components must be purchased separately. What’s also nice about everything integrated into one device is all the desk space you’ll conserve. If you like keeping a minimalistic workspace, a laptop is the way to go. You could also consider an all-in-one desktop PC where the computer and monitor are integrated, which also will help cut out the clutter.
  
  
• Built-in battery: Laptops have a built-in battery, allowing you to use them even when there is no access to a power outlet. If you are in a region that experiences power outages often, a laptop is a lot more convenient and even safer—power surges or other power anomalies can damage desktops plugged directly into the wall. You can buy an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with your desktop computer which will keep your device powered and protected, but it comes at an additional cost, not to mention the clutter of an additional device in your workspace.
  
  
• Embedded webcam: Most laptops come with an integrated webcam, making video conferencing seamless without any need for additional hardware. However, laptop webcams aren’t ideal since most aren’t full HD and are missing many of the features of an external webcam. You also don’t get things like autofocus, low light settings and zoom capabilities like you would with an external webcam.
  
  Read our extensive comparison of laptop webcams vs. external webcams.
  
  
• Energy-efficient: Laptops generally consume less power than desktops, meaning lower electricity costs and greener devices. Laptop battery life and efficiency improves each passing year. Most laptops have a battery-saver setting or the ability to conserve its power consumption while being able to get back to your tasks without having to reboot, like with sleep or hibernation modes.
  
  
• Ergonomics: It’s simple to adjust your screen angle with a laptop to prevent back and neck strain. 2-in-1 laptops take ergonomics to the next level, allowing users to fold the screen down or detach the monitor portion in some cases and use it as a tablet. Some laptops also grant you the ability to rotate the screen 360 degrees. If you don’t like the built-in keyboard or need assistive devices, you can always attach them provided you have an available USB port or USB hub.