Desktop vs Mobile Workstation PCs

June 6, 2020

Our shoppers often ask “Which is best – desktop or mobile workstation?” The answer though depends heavily on each user and their specific workflow. Each has clear pros and cons. Let’s take a few minutes to go over those to help you make an informed decision when considering desktops and mobile workstations.

Advantages of a Desktop Workstation PC

Desktop vs Mobile Workstation
Our Promagix G480 – Definitely NOT a mobile workstation.

Value – The biggest advantage of going desktop over any mobile solution like a laptop is the value that a desktop offers. Because desktop components are less expensive than mobile versions of those same components (generally speaking), you’ll typically get more workstation compute power for dollar with a desktop than a mobile solution.

Upgradeability – This is a big one that most people don’t consider. The upgradeability of most desktops is a huge notch in the Pro column. The ability to upgrade individual components as new hardware is released keeps the system on the bleeding edge of performance and extends the life of the system overall. Laptops are typically limited to only RAM and hard drive upgrades, and usually require factory installation.

Configuration options – Laptops are limited to a few mobile Intel or AMD processor options and very few professional graphics solutions but desktops offer virtually unlimited CPU, GPU, RAM, and HDD options to meet a plethora of needs.

Power – Desktops offer a much higher ceiling in terms of performance. Looking for a dual processor system with multiple hard drives and pro level graphics? 16+ cores? 256GB RAM? Good luck finding those on even the most extreme mobile workstation.

Advantages of a Mobile Workstation PC

Mobility – Laptop workstations go where you do, whether that’s around the world or around the house, allowing your work to travel too – keeping you productive. Maybe this is obvious, but it still needs to be mentioned. Try lugging a fully configured desktop workstation to your next meeting or cramming one into the overhead bin. Mobile workstations offer the flexibility that even small form factor desktops simply can’t.

Smaller workspace – Even if you’re not a world traveler, a mobile workstation might be the best solution if you have limited workspace. Instead of an unwieldy box, monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, and other peripherals, a laptop does it all in a much smaller space.

Final Verdict – Desktop vs Mobile Workstation PCs

The decision to go with a desktop vs a mobile solution is really one that only you can make. It depends on which of the criteria above are most important to you and your work. For further assistance, or help configuring a workstation PC, our sales team is just a phone call away.

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Josh Covington

Josh has been with Velocity Micro since 2007 in various Marketing, PR, and Sales related roles. As the Director of Sales & Marketing, he is responsible for all Direct and Retail sales as well as Marketing activities. He enjoys Seinfeld reruns, the Atlanta Braves, and Beatles songs written by John, Paul, or George. Sorry, Ringo.

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