I would go with a desktop, and that is what I will do when I replace my current desktop (actually a mid-tower).
The reasons are:
#1 - Ability to upgrade components.
1a - GPU
- I did not have a GPU, a few years back I was looking at a GPU card, but because of the mining craze the prices were nuts. So I did not get one.
- Last year I finally bought a GPU, to be able to run the AI noise reduction software. The AI system requirements were above the GPU that I had planned to get a couple years before.
So, I can upgrade the GPU as needed to match the software requirements.
With a laptop, you are stuck with whatever GPU you bought, you can't upgrade it.
1b- Video
I got a 32 inch 4k monitor, for my old eyes. My base system could not drive the monitor at 4k. The GPU card could.
My other computer cannot drive the 4k monitor at 4k. Like my main computer, I have to put in a 4k video card.
With a laptop, you are stuck with whatever you bought.
#2 - Expansion
2a - Data Storage
- #1 for OS and programs
- #2, for data, 8G HD
- #3, for removable backup, I have a removable drive tray for a 3rd (backup) drive.
On top of this, I can go to an external USB3 HD.
2b - USB
I have run into situations where a device will NOT work on a USB hub, even a powered hub. The device only reliably works plugged into the USB port on the computer. Why, I don't know. In those situations, I NEED enough available USB ports ON the computer.
#3 - Keyboard
I hate the current laptop keyboards.
If I am going to do more than a little typing, I want a full size, full travel keyboard with a 10-key pad.
I view a laptop as a compromise computer, necessary for travel or where space is at a premium.
- I hate the viewing angle to a laptop screen. Hurts my neck and shoulder to use it for anywhere near the length of time I use my desktop.
- I hate the feel of laptop keyboards. A full size keyboard will take one of the USB ports, and the trackball/mouse will take another port.
- I NEED a 10-key pad. If not using a full size keyboard, that will take another USB port.
- All expansion has to be via USB, or an expansion dock IF available.
- My 8GB data drive will have to be external, and take another USB port.
- My external backup drive will take another USB port.
- Video is fixed.
- - The max rez is fixed. I cannot drive a newer external higher rez monitor at full monitor rez. On my desktop, I installed a new video card that could drive the monitor at full rez.
- - The interface is FIXED. When the school switched to HDMI video projectors, the HDMI plug could not connect to my old laptop.
So, desktop or laptop, depends on what YOU need.