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Working on a desktop vs. laptop....opinions? - Kiki

Posted: Sep 05, 2014

Looking for opinions on whether you all work on a desktop or laptop and the pros/cons on each one?

laptop - MI/MT

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I use a laptop Toshiba satellite i5 light-up keyboard, 4 usb. I love it. When I need to seek a quiet place to work I grab it and go. I work outside when nice, living room, my bedroom, where ever I want. I've used it in the car on a long trip to finish up, etc. Couldn't imagine going back to a desktop, but that's just my opinion. I hope this helps you decide. :)

Thank you MI/MT! N/M - Kiki

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x

I'd check with someone technical -- it used to be - anemone

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that Laptops could not withstand being on and in use for 4, 6, 8, 12 hours a day and would overheat and eventually prematurely die.

They also used to have less memory capacity (and still do) so they were considerably "slower" -- which may still be a factor if you are actually doing a lot of word processing on your machine, as opposed to using an internet transcription platform ...

I find my upgraded laptop is slower and does not like to have a lot of programs open (stalls/freezes up). If you're using your own spell checker, expander, word processor, quick-look pharmacy software, etc. on an older machine, might be too slow for comfort.

I believe the overheating problem -- inadequate fan due to space requirements -- remains. There are work arounds.

Yes, you can use regular keyboard and mouse and, in theory, you can even attach a larger LCD type monitor

Desktop vs. Laptop - na

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I'm on my second laptop at home for contracting and use a PC at the hospital. The first laptop had overheating problems but my latest (Toshiba) I use like a PC. It cost less for the same "guts" as a PC. I use an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. My opinion is that it is a matter of preference, cost and availability - but both have held up to the rigors of contracting and personal use for me.

Happy shopping.

I do worry about the overheating problem.... - Kiki

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Thanks for your reply...along with the other kind replies it is really helping me make a decision. I can always count on my ladies here at MTStars! :)

I have used a laptop for 7 years and never experienced anything - mentioned in your post except

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it gets warm with all day and partial evening use. Problem solved with the purchase of a base such that it does not sit flat down on a surface and can circulate air underneath.

Multiple programs being open at once and speed has nothing to do with the type of computer but the ram and memory it came with. I was able to add more memory to mine at the suggestion of an MTSO but never really needed it.

And anyone who did a upload/download speed test which only comes from your internet provider always said "wow!" Plus, multiple programs open never had an effect on speed for my laptop.

Mine is an HP Dual Core (which also helps with multiple programs run at the same time) Intel Processor designed for business and would still be in use if XP was still supported. I still use it for one job that doesn't care about XP's current status.

So, now I have both a laptop and desk top and the only difference for me is portability.

You have to research the guts of these things for speed and program capabilities. RAM and memory space key and you can get or put any amount in whichever 'container,' laptop or desktop. Just lift that laptop off the surface so the heat can escape better, and run off electricity not the battery and you can work as long as you wish.

Thanks, that gives me a lot to think about.... - Kiki

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I appreciate you taking the time to respond.... :)

Good luck to you! If buying new or new-ish - prices are better these days. NM

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smiley face

Laptop - I can...

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.....sit on my couch and have the TV on in front of me to help with the boredom of doing VR work all day.

Never a problem with working on the laptop.

Lap top - noname

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I've used a lap top for years with a wireless keyboard and mouse. Easy to travel with. No problems ever.

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