Difference Between Laptop and Desktop Operating System?

Laptop and desktop computers are very popular. Their use is common and has significantly increased with time. There are many laptop and desktop users worldwide, and the revenue generated from their respective markets is high. While they are reliable machines, none can work without a properly installed and well-functional operating system.  

What Is An Operating System? 

An operating system is a system on which a machine functions. The OS makes any machine function. What it intrinsically does is that it renders an interface between the hardware, the app software running on any hardware and the user interacting with the software. Operating systems have evolved. They come with sleek user interfaces, many apprehensive tools, utilities, and preloaded apps. An operating system also determines the security and stability of a system, so the better the operating system, the higher the security will be. There are many operating systems, and choosing one depends on what these OS’s offer and your personal preferences!  

Difference Between Laptop and Desktop Operating System

Although laptops and desktop OS look similar, we can differentiate between them in terms of usage requirement, type, and personal likes and dislikes. 

Laptop Operating Systems Are More Collaborative Than Desktop Operating Systems 

Laptop operating systems support more collaborative operating systems and are less complex. They enhance on-the-go productivity and creativity. Desktop operating systems can handle resource-threaded programs, and since desktops are robust and fast machines, desktop operating systems can be more impenetrable.  

Laptop Operating Systems Are Less Demanding Than Desktop OS’s

Laptop OSs are easier to operate than desktop OS. Laptop operating systems are fast and reliable. Desktop operating systems can require time to operate. 

Laptop Operating Systems Require Less Processing Speed To Operate Than Desktop OS 

Like the above point, laptop operating systems are usually intricate, require less processing power to operate than desktop OSs that operate best at higher processing speeds. Laptop operating systems can become slow if the OS is challenging, whereas desktop OSs can withstand more complexities. 

Desktop Operating Systems Are Less Likely To Go Corrupt 

Desktop operating systems can handle complicated problems, and there are fewer chances of the OS becoming corrupt. Laptop operating systems require higher maintenance and skill, cannot handle very complex situations and may go corrupt if tested under any. 

Top 5 Laptop and Desktop Operating Systems 

There are multiple operating systems available for laptops and desktop computers. However, some are more well-known than others. If you are looking for a list of top operating systems for laptops and desktops, here is a list of the top five. 

MS-Windows 

Windows is one of the most popular and common OS for laptops and desktop PCs. MS Windows has fueled, grown, and developed over the years. The best part about Windows is that it is user-friendly and simple to start and stop. Flaunting a robust user interface, navigation on Windows is also easy. It is also one of the easiest operating systems to install and is equally popular among laptop and desktop users. Windows also offers suitable security measures, providing multi-factor authentication technology such as fingerprint recognition, BIN and PIN. 

Mac OS 

Mac OS is the second most popular type of OS used today. Mac OS has evolved extensively over the years and now sits in a state where its interface screams ‘revolution and innovation’. Mac OS runs on all Apple-powered devices, and users generally don’t have a complaint about it. Mac OS is easy on the eyes and organised. Its stock apps, such as iTunes, give users a lot of liberty and freedom, whereas the Mac Store is a delight to explore. Known for its strapping looks and design, Mac OS offers a steady user experience. The OS free upgrades, and the security is very intense. Overall, using Mac OS is a treat, and it is available on Apple laptops and desktop PCs.  

Fedora 

A Linux-based system, Fedora is best used for open-source development and corporate usage. Available for free, Fedora is usually staunch and uncomplicated, which makes it a reliable OS for both laptops and desktop PCs. Fedora has a reflective user interface. It offers an open-source toolbox with different tools, languages, and utilities that are just a click/command away. Fedora also comes with high-powered virtualisation tools that are highly accessible. From a broader perspective, though, Fedora offers limited versatility. However, it is excellent for developers working in a corporate environment. It contains all the necessary tools/utilities for a developer to run on a given set of projects. Fedora is available for both devices, laptops and desktop computers. Still, since it is not a conventional operating system, Fedora may be more popularly used by desktop users than laptop users.  

Deepin  

An open-source OS available for free, both laptop and desktop users wishing to upgrade to Deepin can do so easily. Deepin is known for its aesthetics and visually appealing interface. From a more comprehensive, broader perspective, Deepin is undemanding and well-conditioned. It offers advanced security features and is easy to install. Deepin also has its set of custom-tailored apps such as the font installer, screen recorder and file manager. Deepin has gained momentum between laptop users and desktop users alike. However, since laptop users are less likely to take risks, Deepin might become more common on desktops than laptops. 

Ubuntu 

Another top operating system for laptops and desktops is Ubuntu. Resourceful for open-source downloading, gaming, and running different apps, Ubuntu is a Linux-based operating system that is available for free. Ubuntu renders excellent security and can be fully translated into 50 languages. Best for organisations, domestic use and schools, Ubuntu is an all-rounder OS, which is increasing in popularity among all types of computer users. While popular among both users, since desktop users tend to experiment more, Fedora, Deepin, and Ubuntu are more popular choices among them than laptop users, who prefer traditional operating systems such as Windows and Mac OS.  

Choosing An Operating System: How To Choose An Operating System? 

The types of operating systems available for laptops and desktop computers are high, so the ultimate choice of choosing one comes down to a few crucial factors. If you are looking for a powerful OS, it is essential that you base your decision on the following factors. 

• Types of hardware options available 
• The design of the interface and Windows options 
• Mobile and cloud integrations 
• Types of software available for different tasks, such as productivity or gaming 
• Overall stability, security, and updates 
• The total number of apps and utilities included 

Top 3 Laptops and Their Operating Systems

There are thousands of different laptops available for users. If you are looking for one, here is a list of the top 3 to get you started.  

ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 (W5600Q2A) Laptop

Specifications 

• Intel Core i7 Processor 
• 16 in Screen Size, Maximum Resolution: 3840 x 2400 
• 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD 
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU 
• Windows 11 Pro 
• Condition: New 
• Colour: Black 

Features 

The ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 is an artistic machine that runs on the Intel Core i9 processor but is also available with a Core i7 processor. With a 16-inch screen size, the laptop boasts a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1600, which is sharp and crisp. There’s also 32GB RAM and a 4TB SSD on board that keeps things fast. The ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 runs the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 TiGPU and comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home OS. 

Lenovo ThinkPad X13 (20UGS47X05) Laptop

Specifications 

• AMD Ryzen 5 PRO Processor 
• 13.3 in Screen Size, Maximum Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
• 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD 
• AMD Radeon GPU 
• Windows 10 Pro 
• Condition: New 
• Colour: Black 
• Warranty: 1 Year 

Features 

The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 Laptop is an affordable machine that comes with a 13.3-inch screen, 8GB RAM, and 256 GB SSD. The laptop runs on the AMD Radeon GPU, which makes visuals steady and functional. The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 Gen 1 Laptop has the Windows 11 Pro installed on it and comes with a 1-year warranty. Windows generally remains a popular choice of OS among laptop users! 

 HP 250 G9 Intel Core i7-1255U (6Q8C2ES#ABU) Laptop 

Specifications 

• Intel Core i7 Processor 
• Maximum Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
• 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD 
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics GPU 
• Windows 11 Home 
• Condition: New 
• Colour: Black 
• Display Type: Full HD

Features 

With a 15.6-inch full HD display, the HP 250 G9 Laptop offers crisp graphics and a bright screen with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080. The laptop is equipped with 16GB RAM, and the 256 GB SSD keeps storage capacity high. The machine has the Intel Iris Xe Graphics GPU installed and comes with Windows 11 Home, which makes it very easy to use. Overall, the device is quite user-friendly and comes in a compact package, making it easy to carry while on the go. 

3 Desktop PCs and Operating Systems 

Alternatively, if you are looking for a sound desktop PC and operating system, below is a list of the top 3. Our list is based on a combination of different factors such as price, security, stability, interface, and the user experience a given machine has to offer. 

HP 295 G6 (44G60ES#ABU) Micro Tower Desktop PC

Specifications 

• AMD Ryzen 5 Processor 
• 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD 
• AMD Radeon GPU 
• Windows 10 
• Condition: New 
• Colour: Black 
• Product Line: n 

Features 

Powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 processor, the HP 295 G6 Micro Tower Desktop PC operates on 8GB RAM and 512 GB SSD. User-friendly, the machine has Windows 10 installed on it, but it can easily be upgraded to other operating systems. The machine features an AMD Radeon GPU and is overall a pleasure to use. For its price and features, the HP 295 G6 Micro Tower Desktop PC must be considered. 

Lenovo ThinkEdge SE30 (11NA000DUK) Mini PC

Specifications 

• Intel Core i5 Processor 
• 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD 
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics GPU 
• Windows 10 
• Condition: New 
• Colour: Black 
• Chassis type: Mini PC 
• Thunderbolt 4, USB3, Bluetooth 
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)  

Features 

A superstar in the package it comes in, the Lenovo ThinkEdge SE30 is powered by the Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, and an Intel Iris Xe Graphics GPU. The machine is fast and has Thunderbolt 4, USB3, and Bluetooth connectivity support. Overall, the machine is quite powerful, runs on Windows 10 and can be easily upgraded to other OS’s. 

Dell Precision 5820 (9R6W0) Tower Workstation Desktop

Specifications 

• 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD 
• No GPU 
• Colour: Black  

Features 

The Dell Precision 5820 Tower Workstation Desktop is another bundle of joy in desktop PCs. With an Intel Xeon processor, this machine supports 16GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD and runs on Windows 10 Pro. While no HDD and GPU are available, the machine is painless and fast to operate. 

Conclusion 

There are various operating systems available for laptops and desktop computers. Choosing one depends on personal preferences and what the two machines can support easily. While laptops are lighter machines than desktops, laptop users usually prefer something not too heavy on their machines compared to desktop users. Desktop computer users generally don’t mind something more versatile, as their machines are steadier and offer uninterrupted usage while being on complex operating systems. If you are looking for a laptop or desktop PC with an operating system of your choice, visit Laptop Outlet and find a suitable fit today.