Desktops can use processors that run much hotter because they're much easier to cool. Laptop manufacturers therefore tend to fit processors that don't use much power, because they generate less heat, and batteries last longer. The problem with computing is that faster always means hotter, but laptops are cramped for space and hard to cool. They usually have faster processors, they last longer, and they are much easier to upgrade and/or repair. Third, desktop PCs are better value than laptops. However, this increases the cost, and means you won't recover all the space used by your current desktop. You can put a laptop on a riser and use it with a separate monitor and a more ergonomic keyboard. I wrote about this in detail last year in How can I use laptops and tablets without suffering from physical pains?

Second, a desktop PC has better ergonomics and is much better for your health than using a laptop. However, it's still better to have more physical screen area. Of course, you can buy laptops with high-resolution screens, and with bigger screens. You will be able to see many more rows and columns in Excel, and more lines of text in Word, or use the space to show two programs at once.įor movie buffs, it means a leap from standard HD (high definition) or 720p video to Full HD or 1080p video. This will show twice as much information. With a desktop PC, you could buy a 21-23in screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Mainstream laptops like the HP ProBook have 15.6in screens with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. First, you will be able to use a bigger screen, which means you will be more productive. I assume your current PC is a desktop, in which case, I'd recommend another desktop. Budget for your next PC to run until early 2020, when Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 7. If you bought your current PC in 2003 then it has done well to last this long, though you may be surprised how slow it is compared to a modern machine. Could I get a discount because I am a teacher/tutor? Tina

The HP ProBook 450 G1 seems most suited to my needs thus far, and at quite a reasonable price on Amazon.Īlso, could you advise whether I should buy an external hard drive for all of my data or wait until I buy a new PC and use the free Laplink option to transfer everything? I’m not sure how I can move the data from my old computer to the new one!įinally, could you advise the best office suite for my needs? I use the Word, Excel, Outlook and Publisher functions mostly. I use my PC about three to five hours each day, as I run my small business from home.

I am still in two minds about whether to buy a laptop or a desktop computer. I have been reading your responses to inquiries about Windows XP and Windows 7 etc with great interest as I have an old Windows XP PC (2003) with Microsoft Office installed.

Will office 2003 run on windows 7