Desktop or Laptop: Which Should You Choose?
One of the most common dilemmas that virtual assistants face is choosing between a desktop and a laptop. Since being a VA entails working in the comfort of your own home, both choices are reasonable options.
The most straightforward way to pick the best tool for you is to analyze what kind of lifestyle you have. To do this, there are key questions you must ask yourself. Are you a homebody? Do you need to spend time taking care of your family? Do you often go out to do errands? Do you travel often? How much are you willing to shell out? What tasks do you do for work? What are the key features that are required for your work? These are just some of the things that you need to consider.
To help you choose, here’s the lowdown on the qualities of a desktop versus that of a laptop.
Desktop
If you stay at home most of the time and have sufficient space in your work area, then a desktop is a good choice. It’s bulkier and bigger, and it will essentially stay put as long as you want it to.
A desktop has a base CPU, a monitor and a keyboard, and these components are separate units. Desktop computers are a great choice for homebodies because they give you a designated workspace. On top of that, they are usually more reasonably priced than laptops. This, of course, will depend on the brand and specs of the unit.
Why choose a desktop?
- Easier to upgrade with more add-on options
- Can be reasonably priced
- May be a better option for VAs who edit videos and photos
- Easier to repair
- Easier to personalize
- May be more suitable for recreational gaming
Cons of desktops
- Not portable
- Requires a bigger space
- May consume more electricity
Laptop
This is the obvious choice for VAs who value their freedom and mobility. If you travel often and if you are the type of person who has to be on the go, then this is a no brainer. There are plenty of options in the laptop market right now, and picking a good one doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.
Before you buy a laptop though, make sure that it meets the requirements of 20four7VA. These include having a Dual Core Processor with at least 2.00 GB of RAM. The brand is a personal preference which stems from years of trial and error. If you trust a certain brand, then by all means, pick that one. Also, be reminded that a work laptop is an investment. There is no point in buying a cheap one that will eventually die on you. In the end, it will cost more to repair and replace.
Why choose a laptop?
- Portable, is especially designed for mobility
- Doesn’t require a permanent space
- Can be placed in a backpack
- Consumes less electricity
Cons of laptops
- Can easily be lost, misplaced or stolen
- Can be easily damaged because of constant movement
- May cost more than a desktop
- Highly susceptible to damage caused by power surges (when traveling)
- Specs may not be as impressive as desktops (depends on the brand)
- May be difficult to repair
- Costs a lot to repair
- Requires care due to its fragility
Having noted everything there is to consider, there is no real winner here. Even if the cons of owning a laptop are lengthy, its pros compensate the negatives. On the other hand, the idea of being able to customize a desktop is highly attractive as well especially for those who are into gaming.
Ultimately, it’s pretty much a matter of personal preference. What works best for other VAs may not be the best choice for you and vice versa. Remember, a work computer is an investment that can have a big impact on your productivity, so the quality must be the main reason as to why you are choosing a particular unit. The best advice is to do your research before making a purchase. Do not be in a rush; take your time until you are confident with your choice. Happy hunting!
Remember, a work computer is an investment that can have a big impact on your productivity, so the quality must be the main reason as to why you are choosing a particular unit.
The best advice is to do your research before making a purchase. Do not be in a rush; take your time until you are confident with your choice. Happy hunting!
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