You’ve probably seen them around, those big boxes that sit on desks and tables, with a screen, keyboard, and mouse attached. They’re called desktop computers, and you might be wondering what’s inside that bulky case and why we use them.
In this article we will go through some basic things you need to know about the desktop computer, from its components, history, functions, to its pros and cons. So you can understand this tech staple that’s been around for decades. We’ll look inside the box at the guts of the machine, explore how everything connects together, and discuss the role desktops still play in the world of modern computing.
What Is a Desktop Computer?
A desktop computer is a personal computer designed to remain stationary in one place. Unlike laptops or tablets, desktop PCs are not portable and typically comprise separate components.
It typically comes in several parts: a monitor, CPU tower, keyboard and mouse. The CPU tower houses the central processing unit that runs the computer. A desktop PC can be a powerful workstation or entertainment system. And unlike other devices, desktop computers are highly customizable so you can build one perfectly suited to your needs.
History and Evolution of the Desktop Computer
The first computer that could be considered a desktop was the Olivetti Programma 101. It was released in 1965 and was the size of a typewriter. Other desktops popped up through the mid-1970s, and the first home computers TRS-80, Apple II and Commodore Personal Electronic Transactor debuted in 1977. Desktop computers became increasingly popular in the subsequent decades, with IBM Personal Computer and Apple Macintosh dominating the market.
Most early desktop computers used cathode ray tube (CRT) displays that sat on top of the actual computer, which laid horizontally on the user’s desk. These are known as all-in-one desktop computers. Modern desktop computer displays use light-emitting diode (LED), liquid crystal display (LCD) or organic LED (OLED) displays.
In the 1990s, the all-in-one style desktop gave way to computer towers that users could store on the floor under their desks. By moving the processor off the desk itself, users could work with larger monitors. These are known as full-sized desktops, and the tower connects to the monitor and other aspects of the desktop through cables. In more modern desktop computers, the connection can be wireless. There are also compact desktop computers, which are similar to full-sized desktops but in a smaller form factor.
In the 2000s, the desktop computer gained competition in the form of laptops portable computing devices that fit in a user’s lap. By the third quarter of 2008, laptops had surpassed desktops in terms of total shipments. The laptop was particularly damaging to desktop computers in the consumer market because home users prefer the convenience of laptops.
Today, desktop PCs remain popular for work and play. Modern desktops boast powerful multi-core processors, lots of memory, and beefy graphics cards for gaming and video editing. However, many casual users now prefer the convenience of laptops, tablets, and smartphones over the traditional desktop. Still, for tasks requiring serious horsepower, the desktop PC continues its important role in computing.
Key Components of a Desktop Computer
These are some of the main components of a Desktop Computer:
CPU
The central processing unit or CPU is the brain of the computer where most calculations take place. It determines how fast and efficiently your computer can run programs and complete tasks. Intel and AMD are the two main CPU manufacturers for desktop computers.
Memory (RAM)
Random access memory or RAM is the computer’s short-term memory. It stores information you’re currently using so it can be accessed quickly. More RAM means being able to run more programs simultaneously without slowing down. For most desktops, 8-16 gigabytes of RAM is good.
Storage (Hard Drive)
The hard drive is your computer’s long-term storage, housing your files, photos, documents, and the operating system. Traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) use spinning disks, while solid-state drives (SSDs) have no moving parts, so they’re faster and more durable. For a desktop, get at least 500 gigabytes to 1 terabyte of storage.
Graphics Card
The graphics card renders images, video, and graphics. Having a dedicated graphics card is important if you plan to play PC games or do graphically intensive work like video editing or 3D modeling. For casual use, an integrated graphics card will do. For gaming or editing, get a dedicated card with at least 2-6 gigabytes of memory.
Optical Drive
The optical drive reads and writes to CDs and DVDs. While not as necessary as in the past thanks to USB drives and downloads, an optical drive can still be useful for loading software, burning disks, or playing DVDs. DVD optical drives are the most common.
Operating System
The operating system or OS is the main software that runs your computer and allows you to operate it. The two most popular OSes for desktop PCs are Windows and macOS. The OS manages your files, applications, security, and hardware.
Case
The case is the enclosure that contains all the components. It comes in different sizes based on your motherboard size. Make sure you get a case that will properly fit all your components and that has good airflow to keep your computer from overheating.
Power Supply Unit
The power supply unit or PSU provides power to all the components in your desktop computer. Get a power supply that can provide enough stable wattage for all your components. For most basic desktops, 400-600 watts is adequate. For gaming rigs, you’ll want at least 600 watts or more.
The Mouse and Keyboard
Allow you to input information and navigate the computer. Some people prefer mechanical keyboards for responsive typing, while a mouse is standard but can be replaced with a trackpad or stylus.
The Monitor
The desktop computer’s display screen. Monitors come in various sizes from compact to extra-large, with higher resolution and refresh rates providing better image quality.
Types of Desktop Computer By Size & Form
These are the types of Desktop Computer by size:
Full Size
Full-sized PCs include separate display and processor components. These components communicate with one another via wires or wireless links. They frequently take the form of towers. These computers are simple to alter and upgrade to meet the needs of the user, for as by adding an expansion card. Early extended-size (much bigger than typical ATX chassis) tower computers were often called “desktop computers,”although this designation is now fairly unusual.
Compact desktops
Compact desktops are physically smaller than full-sized computers. They are often small-sized, inexpensive, low-power computers meant for simple functions such as web browsing, accessing web-based apps, document processing, and audio/video playback. Hardware specs and processing power are typically reduced, rendering them less suitable for running complicated or resource-intensive applications. A nettop is an excellent example of a tiny desktop. A laptop without a screen can functionally be used as a tiny desktop, commonly called a “slabtop”.
These are the types of Desktop Computer by their form:
Tower
A computer tower, which is also known as a computer case in a desktop computer, is a large and capacious upright casing. Because of its size, the tower is typically placed behind a desk. Towers are massive, but they offer unparalleled versatility and the ability to upgrade or replace sections to increase the unit’s capabilities or lifespan. They occur in a range of shapes and sizes, and are composed of materials such as aluminum, plastic, and steel. Towers come in a variety of sizes, from mini-towers to mid-towers to full-size towers. Deciding about the size of the tower you should buy depends on what the computer will be used for and how powerful it should be.
Mini-tower
Mini-towers are the smallest sort of tower computer, measuring less than 14 inches in height. These towers are intended to provide additional workplace space. Mini-towers are ideal for customers with limited desk space, but their compact size limits the computer’s upgrade capability. Because mini-tower cases can only accommodate one or two internal drive bays, its data storage capacity is severely limited. The small area within tiny cases typically makes it difficult to operate with them and limits their cooling capacity than larger cases that have equivalent equipment.
Full-tower
Full-tower cases are the largest form of case found in home computers. Full-towers can reach up to 3 feet in height and often accommodate up to 15 internal and external drive bays. These cases have spacious interiors that offer good air circulation and workspace. Full towers frequently accommodate up to six case fans.
Pizza box shape factor
Pizza Box Form Factor In computing, a pizza box enclosure is a style for desktop computers. The cases tend to be large and flat, mimicking pizza delivery boxes and therefore the name.
Cube
Cube workstations contain a cube-shaped enclosure that houses the motherboard, PCI-E expansion cards, GPU, chipsets, CPU, I/O ports, DRAM DIMM slots, computer cooling equipment, hard disk drives, and solid-state drives.
The desktop tower is the most common type of desktop computer. It houses the CPU, hard drive, memory, graphics card, and other components in a rectangular case. Tower PCs provide the most flexibility and customization options. You can easily upgrade components like the CPU, memory, and graphics card as needed. However, tower PCs also tend to be the largest in size.
What are the Functions of the Desktop Computer?
A desktop computer has many important functions that make it useful for both personal and professional use.
Processing and Computing
The central processing unit or CPU is the brain of the computer that handles all the instructions you provide. It allows you to run software, play games, edit photos and complete other computing tasks.
Storing Data
The hard drive provides long term storage for files, photos, music, software and more. The larger the hard drive, the more data you can store on your desktop.
Running Software
Desktop computers run full operating systems like Windows, MacOS and Linux that allow you to install and run various software programs. You can install office suites, games, creative tools and more.
Connecting Peripherals
Desktops provide connection ports to attach peripherals like printers, scanners, drawing tablets, external storage drives and monitors. You can set up an entire workstation with multiple monitors and input devices.
Gaming
Desktop computers are ideal for PC gaming because they offer powerful components that can run graphics-intensive games smoothly. You can get desktops with dedicated gaming graphics cards, fast processors and more.
Multitasking
The combination of a fast processor, lots of memory, a large screen and keyboard make it easy to have multiple windows and programs open at once. You can switch between tasks and see more of what you’re working on.
Reliability
Desktop computers typically have higher quality components that are built to handle long term sustained use. They tend to last longer than laptops and mobile devices.
Upgradability
It’s easy to upgrade certain components in a desktop computer like the graphics card, memory, processor, storage and optical drive to improve performance over time. Laptops are more difficult to upgrade.
Pros of Desktop Computers
These are some of the advantages of desktop computers:
Powerful and Fast
Desktop computers are built with more powerful components than laptops, like fast processors, lots of memory, and separate graphics cards. This means desktop PCs can handle more demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and graphics design with speed and performance that most standard laptops struggle to match.
Storage Space
Desktop computers provide more internal storage space for files, photos, music, and other data. Many desktop PCs come with 1 terabyte or more of storage, while most laptops top out at 512 gigabytes. You can also easily add more storage to a desktop computer using external hard drives.
Peripherals
It’s easy to connect peripherals like a mouse, keyboard, printer, external storage, and multiple high-definition monitors to a desktop computer. Most desktop PCs have more USB ports and expansion slots than laptops to support all your add-on devices. Using two monitors at once enables more productive multitasking.
Upgradability
Desktop PCs are designed to make component upgrades simple. You can replace or add new parts like the CPU, memory, storage, graphics card, optical drive, and network adapter whenever you want improved performance. It’s more difficult and sometimes impossible to upgrade laptop components. Upgrading a desktop PC can extend its useful life significantly.
Durability
Desktop computers are less prone to damage than laptops since they have fewer moving parts and don’t get moved around. Desktop PCs can last many years with proper maintenance and care. They are a more permanent solution for office or home computing needs.
Gaming Capabilities
For PC gaming, a desktop computer is really the only option if you want the best performance. Desktops offer more powerful graphics cards, processors, memory, and storage for playing graphics-intensive games at high frame rates and graphics quality settings. Most laptops cannot match the gaming capabilities of a dedicated gaming desktop PC.
Cons of Desktop Computers
While desktop computers have some advantages, they also have some downsides to consider:
- Space requirements: Desktop computers require a dedicated space and desk, which can take up valuable real estate in your home or office. They are not portable and once set up, are difficult to move.
- Higher energy consumption: Desktop PCs typically draw more power than laptops due to their larger components like monitors, CPUs and graphics cards. They can increase your energy bills over time.
- Potential noise: Some desktop computers with powerful components like gaming PCs can generate excess fan noise from the CPU and graphics card cooling systems. This can be annoying in a quiet environment.
- Higher initial cost: Although desktops often provide better performance for the money over the long run, they frequently have a higher upfront cost than a laptop with comparable specs. The individual components like the CPU, memory, storage and graphics card must be purchased separately.
- Dust accumulation: The large cases and multiple fans in desktop computers provide more opportunities for dust to enter the system. Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to prevent overheating and ensure optimal performance.
- Limited portability: Once a desktop is set up, it is difficult to move around. You are limited to using the computer from that single location. Laptops offer the flexibility to move from place to place.
- Component obsolescence: Desktop components like the CPU, memory, and graphics cards advance at a rapid pace. Individual parts can become obsolete within a couple of years, requiring upgrades to keep the system current. Laptops have integrated parts that are replaced all at once.
- Peripherals required: Unlike laptops that have built-in keyboards, trackpads, and displays, desktop PCs require separate purchase of input devices like keyboards and mice, as well as one or more monitors. This adds to the overall cost and setup.
Desktop Computer vs. Laptop
These are some of the differences between a desktop computer and a laptop:
CPU
A desktop computer has a larger CPU which means it can handle more intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, and graphics design. Laptops have smaller CPUs which are more suited to basic tasks like web browsing and word processing.
Storage
Desktop computers provide more internal storage space for things like music, photos, and documents. You can easily add more storage too by installing additional hard drives. Laptops typically have less storage and it’s harder to upgrade.
Memory
Desktop computers allow for installation of more memory modules so you can have lots of RAM for improved performance. Laptops usually max out at 8-16GB of RAM.
Graphics
Desktop computers provide much better graphics cards which are essential for playing PC games or doing professional design and video work. Laptop graphics cards are typically basic.
Peripherals
Desktop computers make it easy to connect peripherals like gaming keyboards and mice, large monitors,webcams, drawing tablets, and sound systems. Laptop connectivity is more limited.
Upgrades
Desktop computers are highly customizable and easy to upgrade by adding new components like graphics cards, memory, CPUs, storage drives, and sound cards. Laptop upgrades are very limited.
Durability
Desktop computers are more durable and long-lasting. Laptops are more prone to damage from drops, spills and overheating.
Desktop Computer FAQs
Many people have questions about desktop computers, like:
What are the components of a desktop computer?
The basic components are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and cables to connect them. Inside the case, you’ll find the motherboard, CPU, memory, storage, graphics card, and power supply.
How is a desktop different from a laptop?
Desktop computers are larger and not portable, while laptops are small enough to carry around. Desktops typically offer more powerful components for intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. Laptops are convenient for basic computing needs on the go.
What size desktop should I get?
Desktops come in a range of sizes to suit your needs. A small form factor PC has a compact case to save space. A mid-tower has room for most components but a smaller footprint. A full tower provides maximum space for high-performance parts but has the largest size. Choose based on how much power and upgradability you need.
How long do desktop computers last?
With proper care and maintenance, a desktop PC can last 3 to 5 years for basic tasks and 5 to 7 years for more demanding jobs. However, technology changes quickly, so you may want to upgrade individual parts like the memory, storage or graphics card during that time to improve performance. Regular software and security updates will also help your desktop run well for longer.
Should I get a desktop or laptop?
It depends on your needs. If portability is important, a laptop is better. If you want a powerful machine for productivity or entertainment, a desktop is a good choice. Many people actually use both a desktop at home and a laptop on the go.
What are the pros and cons of desktop computers?
Pros include more powerful components, lower cost, easy to upgrade and repair. Cons are lack of portability, require more space and need separate peripherals like a monitor, keyboard and mouse. For some, desktops can also seem outdated compared to sleek laptops and tablets. However, desktops remain a solid option for an affordable and capable primary computer.
Desktop computers continue to offer great value for budget-friendly and high-performance computing needs. By understanding the basics and differences between desktops and other devices, you can determine if a desktop computer is the right choice for you.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a quick rundown on desktop computers. From their basic parts like the case, motherboard, processor, graphics card, and more. We covered the basics of what these traditional PCs are all about. While laptops and mobile devices continue to grow in popularity, desktops still have their place for gaming, business, and home use where more power and expandability are needed. And with options like adding multiple monitors and upgrading parts over time, they remain a versatile choice for many. Whether you’re a power user or just looking for an affordable home PC, understanding the desktop computer will help you pick the right one when the time comes to buy.