Mini PC vs. laptop: which one is better?
Shopping for a laptop or a computer can be pretty confusing with all the variety of options in the market. As much as buying a reliable smartphone is difficult to decide, modern-day PCs and laptops are the same.
With different demands of people’s needs, there are different laptops or PCs for various purposes. While some want high portability and long battery life, others want high-power gaming laptops. People can choose between a laptop or a mini PC based on the device’s usage and other functions.
We know the latest technological developments and their effect on emerging technological devices. Like how there are palm-sized smartphones, PCs also come in mini versions. Not only do the size and functions make a difference from the ordinary laptop, but they also differ quite a bit in their practicality.Also visit our website laptop repair.
Let’s say that you are confused about whether to buy a laptop or a mini PC. Different people will have different opinions on the same. But for a fact, both of them are pretty useful, practical, portable, and powerful. Regardless, this post is no longer meant to discourage people’s choices. It is a guide to help people make better choices after much consideration.
As a reminder, we all know what a laptop is and how it works. But if a mini PC is a new option for you, here is a gist on them.
You must have seen lots of mini PCs online. But what exactly is a mini PC? Many new users can have that thought. First, mini PCs are also commonly known as mid-range computers or mini-computers. And like any other laptop or smartphone, it has its own share of pros and cons.
Unlike ordinary laptops, the name itself entails what a mini PC is. It is technically a mini version of the actual computer. Intel’s NUC (Next Unit of Computer) initially introduced this type of PC. They claim this mini PC offers computable performance in a tiny package. With similar configurations to laptops, they are equipped with the latest and advanced AMD and Intel chipsets, besides many high-quality components.
Since mini PC is comparatively small, you can quickly put them in your purse or backpack when running around. People who commute for long hours at end prefer such portable devices for practical purposes.
Mini PC vs. Laptop: Point of differences.
Below is a showdown between a standard laptop and a mini PC.
Portability
Compared to traditional desktop computers, laptops and mini PC indeed exceed the portability aspect. And based on the sizings, we all know which has more portability between the computer and the mini PC. However, despite the mini PC being more portable, they have only a considerable degree of functions.
While the portability may be good, laptops are an all-in-one package with a keyboard and touchpad in one device. It is easier to work on it effectively as hand movements are minimized. But mini PCs have limited functionalities when it comes to the keyboard, display, and mouse applications.
Portability also affects the battery power of the devices. Due to the smaller size, the mini PC has to be charged frequently even though the performance is excellent. That might be a problem for many users.
To conclude, mini PCs have limited mobility.
Performance
Performance is not a significant concern when choosing between a mini PC and a laptop. Multiple laptops and mini PC variants have many features to offer with high performance. What you get in ordinary laptops is also equipped in mini PCs, but in limited and compact levels. In regards to performance, both devices are roughly alike.
You should look into the performance basis of both devices if you use the machine for high technical purposes or gaming. The laptop is a better choice if you use the device daily for your work. Mini PCs are helpful when you only stream or browse on the device. You can determine whether or not you need high performance by understanding why and where you will be using the laptop or mini PC.
Mini PCs often come with mobile-grade processors that limit their performance level. But in limited mini PCs, you will be equipped with desktop-class processors. Such mini PCs outperform devices of the same class and are available with premium tags.
Simply put, laptops outperform mini PCs on regard to performance basis.
Flexibility
Laptops have every function and component in them scaled down to perfection. Hence, upgrading any laptop part with extra elements is often difficult or downright impossible. But in the case of mini PCs, they are basically a smaller version of traditional desktop computers. So, they have essential components that are upgradable as long as the parts are compatible. That also means that mini PCs have a higher scope of upgrades than laptops.
Suppose you own a Mac and somehow got its motherboard damaged. Unless the damage is under the Apple warranty, repairing it will cost a lot. You may not even be able to find a compatible replacement at a cheaper expense. But with mini PCs, you have better options and scope for repairs without cutting a hole in the pocket. That being said, mini PCs are more flexible than ordinary laptops.Also visit laptop repair sharjah.
Affordability or price point
You will be amazed to know that the cost of mini PCs is comparatively higher than most ordinary laptops you find in the market. If you buy the device just for the sake of it, irrespective of the other factors, affordability is a great point to think about. If you are on a budget, laptops are a far better option with limitless variants. But if you want to splurge your income, high-end mini PCs are an effective alternative to some quality laptops at the same price.
But the only disappointing thing here is that you will need to buy additional peripherals along with the mini PC, unlike laptops that are a complete package. To make your investment worth it, you can estimate the price-performance ratio of both devices. In this aspect, a mini PC is valuable.
Ergonomics
Do your hand or palm hurt after working on the laptop for a long time? If yes, it is safe to say that the ergonomic condition of the device is not compatible with smooth hand movements. The laptop design often hurts the users after a long time as you have to bend. Your body posture, hand movement, and neck will face discomfort for a while. Only using a laptop with no external peripherals is harmful in the long run.
On the other hand, the ergonomic aspects of mini PCs are entirely opposite to that of laptops. Why? Because mini PCs are not one unit. You need a separate keyboard, mouse, and display to make things work on such a device. You can sit in any way comfortable to you while working using a mini PC. The hand movement is not restricted.
In this aspect, the mini PC won the race.
Convenience
Aside from portability, convenience is another thing that you should get from your device. As an all-in-one package, laptops are easy to carry and pretty convenient to use as they tend to have quite a long-lasting battery. So you do not have to plug in the charger whenever you use it. Laptops don’t need extra configurations and are pre-assembled, where you do not require a mandatory mouse or keyboard on the side.
However, the case is different for mini PCs. Even though they are ready-to-go devices, you still need the additional peripherals to start them. Connecting multiple cables to operate the device often causes inconvenience to the user.
So, based on convenience, the laptop is the winner.
Bottom line
So, these are the various points of difference between a laptop and a mini PC. after comparing all the requirements and specs, what you choose to buy is based on your need and purpose for the device. But since both have their significant advantages and disadvantages, make a properly informed choice.