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Difference Between Notebook and Laptop

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Are you confused between choosing a Laptop and a Notebook? Well then, the differences between the two are pretty sure to help you out.

What are the differences between a Laptop and a Notebook?

With a Laptop, you're usually looking at a more robust and versatile option. Although the price rests on a bit higher side, the overall performance that you can get from a heavy-duty Laptop is way more than what you can expect from any Notebook available in the market. Notebooks are generally more portable and cheaper options for those who're willing to get a lightweight computing device without doing any harm to their budget. 

What are Laptops?

Laptops are one of the first crafted portable computers. The devices are generally versatile and shelter a range of powerful features. Laptops are devices that are built to help users process any sort of task in a pretty seamless manner. Whether you seek a portable solution for dealing with everyday activities or play heavy-duty games, there is a vivid list of options to look at.

What are Notebooks?

Notebooks are the modern form of portable desktops. These are the devices that are built, keeping the compatibility factor in mind. It is the reason why Notebooks offer a compact design throughout. Although they feature a limited set of specifications, these devices can also help you to a great extent in dealing with mild activities. You can also watch movies and enjoy other media playbacks with no issues whatsoever.

Differences Between Laptops and Notebooks

Screen Size

The first and foremost thing that sits differently in a Laptop and a Notebook is their screen sizes. Laptops generally offer larger screens that can even touch 17.3-inches on the top end. At the same time, the Notebook features a small screen that revolves around a range of 14-inches. However, it is essential to keep in mind that exceptions do exist.

Laptop screen sizes
Laptop screen sizes

Update Freedom

Usually, a Laptop offers more upgradability freedom to its owner as compared to that of a Notebook.

Weight

Notebooks are generally designed in a manner that sits parallel to the slim form factor. With that being said, these devices weigh less. On the contrary, some Laptops can weigh even double that of a notebook.

Portability

Although both the devices are designed keeping the portability factor in mind, you can't take anything away from the fact that the lesser weight and overall form factor presents Notebooks as the more convenient devices to carry around.

Processing Power (CPU)

You'll obviously find Laptops with low specifications. Still, when we talk about these devices, we're generally looking at one with more powerful processors as compared to the Notebooks. The processing power of a Notebook is usually way less as they are engineered to serve lightweight tasks.

cpu of a laptop
CPU of a laptop

Cooling

Laptops come with a dedicated cooling system. From fans to other advanced mechanisms, you'll find a range of arrangements that are uniquely made to keep the device cool, while the same can't be said for Notebooks. Most Notebooks do have a passive cooling system, but a dedicated build is pretty hard to find.

GPU

In case you're looking for a gaming or heavy-duty Laptop, it is pretty evident you'll come across numerous options that are home to a dedicated graphics card. The scenes with Notebooks are different though. They usually come with an integrated set of graphics and are not efficient enough to provide a great gaming experience.

Additional Peripherals

Apart from all the available hardware components, Laptops are equipped with some peripherals in addition. These include USB slots, drives, and more. Notebooks generally lack these kinds of additional pieces of equipment and offer limited connectivity solutions.

Versatility

When we consider comparing both Laptops and Notebooks for a healthy number of aspects, we'll find that the former offers more versatility.

Cost

As compared to Laptops, Notebooks are way cheaper. Considering the build and feature, it is pretty evident to get along with the fact that Laptops come with more expensive options.

Comparison Chart: Laptop Vs. Notebook

ParametersLaptopsNotebooks
Screen SizeCan be around 17-inchesUsually less than or around 14-inches
UpgradabilityFlexibleRigid
WeightComparatively moreLess
PortabilityLessComparatively more
CPUComparatively robustLess powerful and are limited to perform lightweight tasks
CollingFeatures dedicated cooling systemPassive cooling
GPUSeparate GPU chipIntegrated graphics card
Additional PeripheralsUSB ports, drives, and moreUsually unavailable
VersatilityMore versatileLacks versatility
CostExpensiveCheap

Similarities: How is a Laptop similar to a Notebook?

Laptops and Notebooks are way off from each other. However, to a certain extent, the overall visual appearance sits pretty similarly in both. Apart from that, you'll find another element common in both the devices and that is the basic purpose. Both are designed to meet the need for portable computing solutions in the most promising manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is a more powerful option, Laptop or Notebook?

Yes, there are a number of Laptops that offer a processing capability that is pretty identical to that of Notebooks. However, there also exist potent alternatives. To put in simple words, Laptops are more robust and powerful as compared to Notebooks.

Which is cheaper, Laptop or Notebook?

For those who're after owning a cheaper device, Notebook is definitely the one option standing with open arms. However, we recommend you do a healthy research because at times getting a cheaper laptop might be more beneficial.

Which is better for playing heavy games, Laptop or Notebook?

Without any doubt, high-end Laptops are the best available options for playing heavy-duty games. If you're satisfied dedicating your pass time in lightweight, old titles, Notebooks can also be helpful. But to be honest the build of Laptops generally orients towards providing a better gaming experience.

Wrapping Up

Laptop or Notebook, the state can baffle many, but thankfully not anymore. In this article, we've penned every broad aspect that keeps both the devices away from each other. We also made sure to add details about the similarities that lie within Laptops and Notebooks. In other words, walking through this article will make you capable of setting both the devices apart effortlessly.

Sources

Feel free to comment and discuss about the article in the comment space below if you have any information or remarks to add. If you think we made a mistake, you can also report it there.
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About the Author: Nicolas Seignette

Nicolas Seignette, who holds a scientific baccalaureate, began his studies in mathematics and computer science applied to human and social sciences (MIASHS). He then continued his university studies with a DEUST WMI (Webmaster and Internet professions) at the University of Limoges before finishing his course with a professional license specialized in the IT professions. On 10Differences, he is in charge of the research and the writing of the articles concerning technology, sciences and mathematics.
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