Laptop... or Computer/Deskop ?! Am starting an architecture course, what will be best?

Question

I currently use a laptop, and have had it for around 3 years now, and is a brick to carry around. I am considering getting a lightweight laptop for travelling, and keep this laptop permanently in my room, but it is having serious issues and is getting rather slow.
I would really like to know the pros and cons of laptop to computer, and what you think is best for an architecture course, and any spec information to guide me when I make my decision. I'm going to buy it in October, so am gathering ideas now... any help is greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

If mobility is still a serious consideration, then get a laptop.

Otherwise, get a desktop. Usually you can get a powerful and easily upgradeable one at a much lower cost than a laptop. Then transfer all your files to the desktop. Do a recovery or even a fresh OS installation on your laptop and upgrade its memory. It should be back in good shape, perhaps even better.

Answer 2

I'm doing a similar course, well interior & spatial design, involves learning Architecture. The course requires the use of a lot of programmes including AutoCAD.
With this in mind i would say most definitely a desk top computer. They tend to be more powerful.
Go for a dual core, enables you to have many applications open at once which you will need on your course.
Min 1GB of RAM
Laptops are great for taking away with you, but i am always worried about it being stolen & it's a pain taking it everywhere with you if you only have a lecture that requires the need for it in the morning.
Most colleges have their own computer rooms so for me there was no need to have a laptop, i just come home & do my work & the work i did at college i transferred onto my PC from a memory stick. Never use work straight form there though always transfer it in case the memory stick becomes corrupted.
Hope that helps.

Answer 3

I have built many desktop PCs in my time, and use a laptop for business and recreational use. However, being on a course it is essential you have portability, so a laptop is your best option. I would personally recommend an Apple laptop for your course, primarily for two reasons:-

1) It is ideal for graphics, and design.
2) It is not susceptible to viruses (or is it - virii?), as much as a Windows based OS therefore keeping your work safer.

Hope this helps, and good luck in your future endeavours!
JB

Answer 4

Hi there, laptops are great and anything with reasonable processer power and lots of ram would be fine..but check health info regarding long term use..and go for popular brand.
I use ibm thinkpad notebook.very durable and reliable.But thats my personal opinion..
check this site for health related issues..good luck with your education...
http://www.cheaphomepc.com/article-laptop-computer.htm
PS: If you do get a new valuable laptop make sure you get an old used laptop bag ..makes people less likely to steal if they think the laptop in the bag is old.CHEAP INSURANCE...

Answer 5

For studying, it's better for u to have a laptop so that u can carry it to classroom.

Moreover, nowadays laptop is not expensive.

I recommend yr laptop should have the following specs.: -

Pentium Duo T5500 or above;
at least 2G RAM; and
up-to-date fast graphic card

so that u can run CAD or other software smoothly.

Answer 6

I'd get the desktop.
Generally, desktops have larger harddrives than laptops.
desktops come with a mouse, which is invaluable for arch programs like CAD.
ok, so you cant carry the desktop arround with you, but this gets you to do a crappy copy on paper, and transfer that to the comp

Answer 7

I dont like laptops myself but if you need something portable than it has to be a laptop and get a usb memory stick to transfer you work..

Answer 8

Laptop, you'll need it to be portable