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Desktops vs. Laptops vs. All-in-Ones for Small Businesses
Cameron Cashman
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April 1, 2024
Once, it took a whole room or building to house a single computer. Even the relatively smaller personal computers of the ‘80s and ‘90s were unwieldy. But as technology has improved, computers have become more versatile than ever before.
That means business owners have a few options when selecting a new PC. Long-standing options include desktops and laptops, which most everyone is familiar with: desktops provide raw power at the expense of portability, while laptops are completely portable while sacrificing some performance. (Although the performance gap between desktop and laptop PCs quickly shrinks, as we'll soon see.)
Recently, we've seen the creation of a new PC form factor: All-in-ones (AiOs). While not quite as versatile as a traditional laptop, all-in-one PCs pack all the power of a desktop PC into a single unit, cutting down on clutter while retaining performance.
If you own a small business and are in the market for a new PC, look no further than a machine from HP. The form factor you choose will depend on the specific needs of your business. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at the three different form factors and their advantages so you can make an informed decision for your small business.
Desktop computers
The tried-and-true option for small businesses, desktop computers remain reliable and cost-effective.
Pros
One of the primary advantages of desktop PCs is their upgradability. Desktop computers offer the most flexibility when it comes to internal parts. These days, most desktops can be opened, and their components can be replaced. The most common parts that are swapped out include:
- Storage: New hard drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) can be added for additional file storage capacity.
- Memory: Additional memory (RAM) sticks can be added to improve performance in resource-heavy processes.
- Processing: In rarer cases, the central processing unit (CPU) can be swapped for additional power.
- Cooling: Some desktop PCs even allow for additional or replacement fans, which help cool the unit to help it run at full capacity.
Recommendations
If you don't do a lot of business on the go, desktop computers often prove to be the superior choice for small businesses looking for performance and cost-efficiency. Here are two desktop offerings from HP, both excellent choices for small business owners.
HP Elite Tower 600 G9 PC
The HP Elite Tower 600 G9 PC is a standout choice for small businesses seeking performance and expandability. In its base configuration, it includes a 12th Generation Intel® Core™ i3-12100 Processor capable of clock speeds of up to 4.3 GHz in boost mode. It also has 8GB of memory, with the option to expand it to a whopping 128GB, sure to handle even the most intense processes.
There are also several storage options available, including HDD and SSD selections with up to 2TB of storage.
The default configuration also includes an Intel UHD Graphics 730, which should suit most businesses' needs - but if you're looking for a little more oomph, alternative options include an AMD Radeon™RX 6300 or an NVIDIA® GeForce® RTX™ 3060.
With impressive specs and customization options, the HP Elite Tower 600 G9 PC is a versatile and powerful choice for small businesses.
HP Elite Small Form Factor 600 G9 Desktop PC
The HP Elite Small Form Factor 600 G9 Desktop PC is perfect for businesses looking to maximize performance while saving valuable workspace - this small form factor PC fits seamlessly into tight workspaces while retaining the quality and power HP is known for.
The Intel Core i5-13500 included in the default configuration boasts 14 cores and 20 threads and reaches clock speeds of up to 4.8 GHz - allowing you to tackle even the most demanding tasks with ease. And if that's not enough, you can upgrade to an i7 13700 with speeds up to 5.2 GHz. It also features 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, upgradable to 16GB and 512GB, respectively.
The HP Elite Small Form Factor 600 G9 Desktop PC is a powerful, compact choice for businesses in need of maximum power in a space-saving design.
Laptops computers
Laptop computers are a versatile choice for businesses on the move, offering a unique set of advantages that cater to portability and flexibility.
Pros
By now, everyone knows that laptops offer unparalleled portability. Their all-in-one design ensures you have everything you need in a compact package. This design is especially beneficial for remote businesses without a fixed storefront and business owners frequently on the go.
Whether in a coffee shop, an airport lounge, or a home office, laptops allow you to maintain productivity and stay connected, making them an indispensable tool for modern business professionals.
And while traditionally, laptop PCs have played second fiddle to their bigger desktop counterparts, that gap has all but closed. Laptops are more powerful than ever, making them a viable option even for intense processes.
Recommendations
The following suggestions are great options for on-the-go business owners looking for power and portability.
HP EliteBook 860 16” G10 Notebook
The HP EliteBook 860 16-inch G10 Notebook is the epitome of productivity and versatility for business professionals of all kinds. Driven by an Intel Core i5 1335U processor capable of speeds up to 4.6GHz, this laptop will handle any task with ease. Customization options include the i5 1360P (5.0 GHz) or the i7 1370P (5.2 GHz).
You can choose from 16GB to 64GB of RAM depending on your needs, and internal storage options range from 256GB to 1TB (SSD).
Plus, the EliteBook 860 boasts an impressive 16-inch display that features a 1920 x 1200 resolution WUXGA screen, ensuring crisp and clear visuals for finely detailed graphics work or presentations.
HP ProBook 450 15.6” G10 Notebook
Equipped with a 13th Generation Intel Core i5 processor, the HP ProBook 450 15.6-inch G10 Notebook is a versatile and powerful laptop designed to meet the needs of any small business. With the option to choose between an Intel i5 1335U or an i7 1355U, you can handle demanding tasks with ease.
The laptop's 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD (upgradable to 32GB and 512GB, respectively) provide ample memory and storage for your business needs.
Finally, the ProBook 450 features a striking 15.6-inch 1920 x 1080 display that delivers crisp, high-definition visuals. The narrow bezel design and anti-glare technology ensure a distraction-free, clear view, even in various lighting conditions.
All-in-One Pcs
All-in-one PCs, a newer type of PC form factor, have gained significant prominence in recent years thanks to their sleek design and space-saving capabilities.
Pros
All-in-one PCs seamlessly combine the computer and monitor into a single, compact unit, making them ideal for offices with limited space.
Their modern design not only eliminates the need for multiple components and cables but also enhances the aesthetics of any work environment.
Recommendations
Recently, HP has introduced several all-in-one desktop PC models, including the following two, which are perfect for small businesses, new and old.
HP EliteOne 840 G9 All-in-One Touch Screen PC
At the core of the HP EliteOne 840 G9 All-in-One Touch Screen PC is an Intel Core i5-13500 processor, capable of reaching up to 4.8 GHz, which can be upgraded to a Core i7 13700. Paired with 16GB of RAM, this PC ensures you can handle intense tasks with ease.
Plus, the 256GB SSD (upgradable to 512GB) provides ample storage space for your files, apps, and data, allowing you to work efficiently.
One of the standout features is the nearly 24-inch, 1920 x 1080, Full High Definition (FHD) touch screen display with anti-glare and blue light-reducing technology that offers a vivid viewing experience.
HP ProOne 440 G9 All-in-One PC
An Intel Core i5-13500 processor drives the HP ProOne 440 All-in-One PC and features 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking. Plus, the spacious 512GB of storage, thanks to a lightning-fast SSD, provides ample space for your files.
Like the previously mentioned HP EliteOne 840 G9, the ProOne 440 G9 also features a 24-inch touch screen display, alongside a 5MP camera and automatically-adjusting microphone for virtual meetings.
What to consider when selecting a small business PC
Selecting a small business PC demands careful evaluation of various factors. First, consider your business needs: determine if your operations rely on demanding tasks like video editing or primarily entail basic functions such as word processing and web browsing.
Assess your workspace setup; whether you operate from a dedicated office or have a remote team influences the choice between stationary desktops or portable laptops. Budgetary constraints play a crucial role; while all-in-one PCs and high-end laptops offer versatility, they might be pricier compared to basic desktop setups.
Finding the right balance between performance, mobility, and cost efficiency is critical when selecting the ideal small business PC.
Summary
In conclusion, choosing a small business PC should align with your specific business requirements, workspace setup, and budget considerations. Whether you need the raw power of desktops, the portability of laptops, or the space-saving efficiency of all-in-one PCs, tailored solutions are available to meet your needs.
