Choosing a computer (Laptop vs. Desktop)
When shopping for a computer, there can be many factors to consider. One of the biggest factors is whether you should purchase a laptop computer or a desktop computer.
Most times, a desktop computer is recommended for production work, especially when dealing with 3D game engines, modelling, rendering, and computational intensive workloads. They offer more power for less cost, and tend to be easier for upgrades and repairs. Although, as a student you should make this decision based on your own personal needs.
We hope the info below helps, if you are looking for a new computer. As always you can reach out to us, if you have questions.
Choosing a Laptop
The greatest feature of a laptop is that it is a very mobile platform, if you travel often or commute long distances this option might be right for you. They also generally come ready to go out of the box, which is a huge plus if you are not familiar with installing an operating system.
The downside is that you generally get less power for your money compared to a desktop computer. Out of warranty repair costs can be much greater. We recommend purchasing a maintenance plan or extended warranty from the vendor, if you choose to purchase a laptop. Another potential constraint of a laptop, is its ability to upgrade the internal components. Laptops are generally limited in this area, and may shorten the length of its usefulness/service life.
Laptops also can get really warm when playing graphically heavy games, or when using 3D heavy apps, so having a laptop cooling stand, or a little desk fan to keep airflow moving, will help to keep it cool.
Choosing a Desktop
Desktop computers are generally more versatile, and offer more computing power, but lack in mobility. Another perk of a desktop computer, is the ease of replacing and upgrading parts. There are two approaches for desktop computers.
Firstly, you can purchase a pre-built computer (some vendors allow you to pick specs, like CPU, RAM, storage, graphics card from a list of options, like a menu, and they assemble it for you). Pre-built computers also generally come pre-loaded with an operating system, which can save time.
There's the bonus of having the warranty direct from the vendor as well (either by phone or on-site), should you need support down the road.
Most systems like this, allow you (within reason) to, upgrade the Graphics card, Storage, RAM, which can prolong the life of the computer for several more years, when the computer is out of the manufacturer warranty period.
Secondly, you can build your own computer, by purchasing the components separately, and build it yourself. This allows you to specify the exact parts you want, to really customize the setup according to your budget.
Note: Building your own computer is very much a 'on your own' thing. From researching parts, to finding parts, to putting it all together, installing an operating system, along with all the needed drivers. It's amazing to say you've 'built it myself', but unless you are technically savvy, and prefer to deal with warranty situations if they happen, or having someone who has experience building a computer available to you, it's recommended that purchasing a pre-built desktop workstation, might be the better choice.
If you are confident in building a computer, and handling the issues mentioned above, a very helpful website for choosing parts is PC Parts Picker, here
PC Part Picker is great for analyzing the compatibility of your computer components. Although, it is still recommended that you do further research to validate the compatibility of the parts. The site queries many online marketplaces for pricing and availability, which can potentially save you money. The site also provides detailed component guides as well as examples of completed builds.
Whenever you visit the site, make sure you are looking at the Canadian site. Prices and availability can differ from the U.S site.
If you have any questions on the above, please contact us at game.support@sheridancollege.ca