Desktop PC's & Computers

Desktop Computers also known as Desktop PCs are types of computers that are designed to remain in a single location. They have larger, boxier form factors than Laptops, Tablets and AIO PCs and are designed to have separate Keyboards & Mice, Monitors and other peripherals plugged in. Laptops, Tablets and All In Ones on the other hand include many of these peripherals or some sort of alternative technology, such as the touch screen of a Tablet for example replicating the functions of a Keyboard and Mouse.

Whilst they are less portable than other types of Computers, Desktop PCs offer more power than other types of Computers. Desktops are easy to open to access all the components, making it easy to replace and upgrade as needed, with the parts also being more readily available, making repairs, upgrades and USB & Hard Drive Storage expansions less expensive.

There are three broad categories of desktop computer. Tower PCs are a traditional type of desktop, with all the computer components housed within a relatively large case that usually lays upright (like a tower), although some horizontal form factors are available. Whilst this type takes up more space, it is the most versatile in terms of upgrading and replacing components. The larger cases give you more room to do maintenance and there is often more room to add components later.

All-in-one desktops are designed like a computer monitor and desktop PC built into a single unit. All-in-ones often have a similar size and form factor to other computer monitors, with the computer components housed behind the screen. They are more space efficient than towers but lose the option to easily upgrade and repair.

Mini PCs are like a compact and semi-portable Tower PC built using smaller, specialised components. Some external expansion is usually possible via USB, HDMI, DVI, Type-C and more.

The energy consumption of a Desktop PC depends on several factors: how often it's used, what sort of tasks are being performed, the efficiency of the CPU processor, and the energy consumption of peripherals like Printers and Monitors.

An entry level Desktop may use as little as 0.08kWh per year, where a more power intensive and high end Desktop could use more than three times that. If you want to get an accurate idea of how much energy a Desktop Computer uses, you can measure it using an Electricity Usage Monitor Plug. For the most accurate results, use a surge protected Power Board for everything then plug the board itself into the reader plug.

The easiest way to bring down the energy consumption of your computer is to make sure it is either turned off or put into sleep mode when not in use. Sleep mode will use substantially less electricity and be quick to start up when needed.

When shopping for a new desktop computer, one of the most useful things you can do to get started is think carefully about how you want to be using it. This will help you determine what sort of components you will benefit from and which will be overkill.

An entry level Desktop should cover basic internet browsing, social media use, email and using Office Software. A mid-range Computer will do everything an entry level model will do, whilst also being able to run other general purpose software and some games without high specificiation requirements.

High end PCs like some Mac Desktops or Gaming PCs are targeted towards serious gamers and multimedia professionals. Video editors and graphic designers, especially those involved with 3D modelling, will benefit significantly from the performance boost of a high-end desktop and may want more storage space for lots of large, high quality files. Solid State Drives aka SSDs are much faster than the traditional Hard Drive for storage but will cost slightly more per gigabyte (GB).