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amybomar amybomar
 
June 08, 2009 07:40 PM

Buying a home-based computer for my kids (elementary/early middle school age) Desktop or laptop?

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jdranoff jdranoff
 
 June 08, 2009 08:04 PM
I strongly suggest a desktop for several reasons.

1. Online safety. The desktop should be placed in a public room, ensuring that parents can check on the kids' online activity at all times.
2. Better bang for the buck. Despite laptops' allure, a much better quality computer can be purchased for the same money.
3. Futureproofing. Without a doubt, all computers become somewhat obsolete over time. However, the technology of a desktop is less likely to become obsolete quickly. And the older kids will want to game pretty soon.
4. Stability. Let's face it - kids are tough on tech. Laptops are much more fragile than desktops.

I would recommend an integrated desktop/monitor system like the Apple iMac to save desk space, but that is a personal decision.


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Voted as best: easyeboy, csandoval, bunnyphuphu
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stanar stanar
 
June 08, 2009 11:14 PM
Online safety can be enforced on a laptop too. We can buy a branded quality laptop or a desktop under $500. For kids of early middle school, you dont need a high end system. Any computer system (electronic gadget) becomes obsolete in 6-12 months if not sooner. So I wouldnt spend more than $500 on a computer for a early middle schooler.

Until recently, I was also favoring desktops, but things have changed. Now $300 netbooks are everywhere. My coworker's 6th grade kids have netbooks. I have given my daughter (6th grade) a laptop on a docking station with all the safety enforcements.

Integrated system like iMac is as good as a portable. You cant get an iMac for lessthan $1200. Tough kids will be tough on any thing.

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stanar stanar
 
June 08, 2009 07:50 PM
I would buy a laptop and below are my justification.

1. comes all in one package
2. costs the same
3. consumes less power
4. portable
5. doesnt need a big desk

Tags: laptop

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nyssa nyssa
 
June 08, 2009 08:28 PM
Desktop!!! less of a chance of the equipment hitting the floor as they wrestle for it because it is their turn. Their bumps and bruises will heal the computer will need to be fixed, if not replaced. extra $$$ out the door
Source(s):
a parent of 3 children and referee of computer time in the home :)


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braindance braindance
 
June 08, 2009 08:31 PM
Hi Amy
I personally would recommend a desktop, why..laptops can be carried around and therefore can be dropped, tossed,etc. Also, if placed in a public area of the house, it is easier to keep an eye on what the kids are doing or watching or surfing. Laptop parts can be lost easily (plugs,mice,mousepad), setting up one area of the home that is JUST for computing will make it easier and safer to keep an eye on your kids and the investment you will make
Linda
ps dont be distracted by the fancy "just for kids" computers, they are mostly eye candy

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Voted as best: bbrookin
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mcarthur01 mcarthur01
 
June 08, 2009 09:38 PM
desktop, go with a cheapo one from Wal-mart, they have plenty of horsepower for the simple apps like dr. suess or sesame st. etc. we got a dell desktop package that included a monitor for around 300 bucks shortly after christmas this year and it's been great for my kids (kindergartner age)...

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harmonydaw... harmonydaw...
 
June 09, 2009 12:11 AM | view on twitter
I would have to vote for a desktop for children that age. The last thing you want is your computer flinging off the table as one child says "MY TURN". A desk top I think is just a more substantial computer for children of your age. Not only that children need to be monitored in regards to the internet sites that they go to and having a designated computer area gives you that capability. Desktops are still cheaper then lap tops and in my opinion have a longer life expectancy. The value of a lap top is mobility... don't see that as a need for children that are your children's age. Now if they were going to college that would be a different thing.There is absolutely no difference in what you can do on a desktop or a laptop... so go out and find yourself the best bargain you can on a desktop.
Source(s):
Just my opinion


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ryanbick ryanbick
 
June 10, 2009 03:36 PM | view on twitter
I would say Desktop, a laptop can easily get broken from being carried around and dropped ( kids being the culprits) .... Aslo you get more bang for your buck... laptops are more expensive for the pure fact that they are a laptop... You can get a desktop that does more things and has more memory and you wont have to worry about your kids losing the charger or dropping the laptop..
Source(s):
my childhood


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