Laptop vs Desktop for computer science

A laptop for a computer science student or professional is the main working tool. The overall performance, speed of tasks completion and the pleasure that a programmer receives depends on the correct choice of a PC or laptop for programming. Especially if you are a student who needs to use heavy software for design or programming homework help. Consider what technical parameters of the device should be given priority when choosing, so that the use of the device is pleasant, and does not cause anger and irritation. Let’s take a look at the key requirements for the best laptop for computer science students (or desktop – we’ll see).

CPU

For the execution of simple programs that you write in computer science classes at school, the frequency and number of processor threads does not matter. The program will compile quickly and run without delay. The only thing to keep in mind is that a slow processor spends more time running shells to write programs, and the operating system itself is slow on it.

But for serious work, you need a processor with a class of at least Intel Core i5 or its equivalent from AMD. In this case, the OS will work fast enough, the compilation of the program will take less time, it will be possible to run several processes at the same time.

RAM

For RAM, the principle “the more the better” applies. For programming, it is recommended to immediately abandon models that have 4 GB of RAM or less. Such PCs can only be used as typewriters, Internet surfers, and Internet video viewers.

The minimum amount of “RAM” for writing programs is 8 GB. In this case, it will be possible to work comfortably in the shell for writing and debugging applications. However, it is best to spend a little more money and get a model that has 16 GB of memory. In this case, it will be possible to run several applications at once, open a large number of tabs in the browser and not experience discomfort due to the “braking” of the computer.

HDD / SSD

The file with the program in its text version does not take up much disk space. However, the compiled and resource files, as well as the programming and debugging applications themselves, can be very large. Also, as you develop as a professional, the number of programs you write and store will increase. Therefore, it is recommended to take care of a capacious drive in advance.

The fastest option is to use solid state drives (SSD). In this case, the operating system and applications will start very quickly, and compiling programs will also not require a long wait. But computers with large SSDs are quite expensive.

To reduce the cost of the computer, it is recommended to use a bunch of SSD + HDD. For example, buy a PC with a 128-256 GB solid state drive and a 1-2 TB magnetic disk. In this case, the OS and the necessary applications can be launched quickly, and the archive can be stored on a magnetic disk.

Laptop versus Desktop

When choosing between a laptop and a desktop computer, only one criterion should arise – mobility. If you need a mobile workstation that you can take to school, on the road, anywhere – then definitely a laptop is your choice. If not, then definitely a stationary computer, because. a stationary for the same cost will be many times more powerful, it can be easily upgraded, and it will live longer (if something breaks, it is easy to change).

If you cannot afford PC + laptop the same time, the main criterion is mobility. Where will the work take place? At home or in the office? Wouldn’t it be necessary to carry the computer with you? If the work will take place in one place, with rare moves, then a PC is better, due to the fact that it can be customized as you like for yourself in terms of hardware and peripherals.

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CPU

RAM

HDD / SSD

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