If you are entertaining the thought of buying a new laptop or desktop, there are many factors you should consider. Deciding which is best for you ultimately depends on the size and needs for you company in the most cost effective way. Every business will have different technological needs so we have put together a list of five important factors that will help guide you towards the right purchase. .
Portability
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, businesses have been transitioning to a more hybrid work environment. Many companies learned that the same work done in the office can also be done at home, creating a hybrid work environment between office and home. If you are thinking about implementing a hybrid or remote work environment, purchasing laptops would be the smarter move, as it will allow you employees to take their laptops with them and work from any location, anytime.
That being said, you can’t write off desktops altogether just yet. While laptops are lighter and more portable, the modern desktops computers created today are far more mobile than they used to be. Previously, it would have been a nightmare to transfer desktop computers from one location to another. However, in many cases today, desktop monitors are light and thin, and the all-in-one desktops are easy to move around.
If your primary concern is focused around the portability for you employees, then the laptop might be your best bet. If you aren’t sure just yet, keep reading the other important factors below.
Memory and speed
It used to be that desktop computers were much faster because they allowed room to store bigger processors and they and could store more memory. That is no longer the case thanks to improvements in modern laptop technology. The downside to this is that high-powered business-grade laptops have become quite expensive and until these laptops can be made cheaper, desktop computers will provide your company with more speed and memory all for less of your money.
The important question to keep in mind here is, “How much memory and speed do I need for my company?”. If your employees work mostly consists of emailing and word processing, laptops will suffice. If your employees tend to deal with editing large media files or gaming software, then it would be better to invest in desktops.
Security
A desktop computer will be more physically secure since it is mostly kept in one place, making it harder to access from the outside. Since desktop’s tend to be stored in one location, they also tend to use a single internet source. Using a single internet source is easier to defend against malicious malware and cyberattacks as your employees will not be on unsecured networks.
If do choose to purchase laptops, it is important to implement a set of rules and regulations regarding to minimize security risks. Don’t let your workers connect to networks that are not secure, and use encryption tools that will protect your data from unauthorized access. You will also need to utilize mobile device management software to allow your IT administrator to clear laptops of data in the event of it getting lost or stolen.
Generally speaking, it is important for you team to understand the importance of practicing safe interment habits. If your employees are well trained on cyber security practices, laptops can be a great option. If your team has little to no cyber security training it might be a good idea to choose a desktop computer or touch on some of the security basics with them.
Price
Desktops are typically more expensive than most laptops, especially the ones that are smaller notebook-style. However, desktop computers have been moving towards more affordability through local channels and flexible payment terms. A good IT services provider will be able to offer cheaper desktop options to your company so you can get quality computers without over spending your budget.
Quality
While laptops provide more convenience through portability, they are also prone to more problems. Laptops typically run into battery problems and also charging cord problems that can become a pain down the road. They can also be easily damaged if there are dropped or mishandled. On the other hand, desktops are typically built sturdier and the don’t get moved around as much which leads to less breaks. However, when they do experience a problem, repairing that issue can get expensive.
The laptop versus desktop debate is an old one that will continue on into the unforeseeable future with advocates on both sides defending their choice. It is important to keep in mind that every business will have different needs leading to different decisions. If your company is growing it might need a combination of the two to accommodate the needs of the employees, especially as their needs increase.
If you need help deciding which computer set up is best for your business, or you have an business IT-related question give us a call at (312) 303-1194 or click here to be redirect to the RJ2 Technologies homepage.
If you need help choosing the best computers for your business, or if you have any business IT-related question, give us a call today.