A laptop is typically only a fraction of the cost of a desktop computer. However, laptops have drawbacks in being portable and in their power requirements. They need an AC outlet to work, unlike a desktop where you can just plug in your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. And they use much more energy in transport mode than in user mode which means that heavier models will run down your battery much quicker when running on battery power. The battery life of the average laptop is about 1-2 hours while standard office computing tasks may last 8 hours or more when using a desktop computer rather than a laptop's smaller capability electric charge storage capacity lessening shelf life for long trips away from home...