There are two types of computers, desktop computers and laptop computers. The difference between them in terms of life is very different. So let’s analyze it and see what would be the best option.
Computer
For this type we have several options, since we can configure and create it according to our needs, with better or worse quality components. Of course, aiming for them all to be more or less similar in terms of performance and lifespan. It is useless to have a great processor if the motherboard is very cheap and fragile, because the day it dies, the processor will be useless until we buy another one.
If we opt for components of good brands, with good support and good quality, we will go towards a high budget, however, we will also improve the expectation of its duration.
In general terms a PC can last between 5 and 10 years with good performance. However, it also depends on the use you want to give it. Wanting it to play the latest and most powerful versions is not the same as wanting it for office tasks (word, excel, browsing…). In the first case we could talk about it in a few years we would start noticing less good performance and at 5 years it would be time to change them, while in the second case we could reach those 10 years with the same feeling than the first day. In addition to its budget, if we want it for games we will have to pay much more than for browsing and watching videos.
laptop
In this case, things change a lot, since as a rule laptops are already assembled by a brand and with certain characteristics. But we must also evaluate why we need it, because another value comes into play, battery. Something we weren’t interested in in desktops, but now we do.
This is a very important point, in particular because of their duration and their degradation. We can talk about brands and models that give us up to 12 hours of continuous use and good quality that might not be suddenly affected in a few years, as well as computers with only 2 or 3 hours of use and that in a few years we will see it reduced to 30 minutes, until we have to use it always connected to the network as if it were a desktop computer.
Therefore, when thinking about the useful life of a laptop, my recommendation is to look for one with good battery performance, because if that fails and we have to change it, the rest is secondary .
Now, talking about the real life of a laptop, we can estimate that it would be around 3 to 4 years. Regardless of the battery, the heat and conditions of those mean their components don’t last as long as a desktop computer. Of course, it will also depend on how you use it. If you only use it occasionally and for a very simple activity, you can extend its lifespan to more than 5 years.
In conclusion, whether you opt for one or the other, you must analyze the use you are going to make of it and the budget you want to invest given its duration.
