You can e-mail, chat or surf the web from different devices now, and we’ve created a list of the commonly used ones as well as their pros and cons when it comes to ease of use, so you know which one to get.
Desktop computer
What: A desktop computer is a machine that you can have set up on your desk or in your room.
Pros: Customizable and cheaper, these bigger machines are stationary, but can be equipped with a big screen for easy viewing.
Cons: Clunky, takes up a lot of space, and not portable. Requires a lot of setup.
Laptop
What: Laptops are portable versions of the desktop. Often called notebooks, these clamshell devices are more portable, allowing you to bring it wherever you are.
Pros: You can choose a model with a big screen; it has a keyboard in case you have activities that require lengthy typing.
Cons: Some models are heavy, and some also require setup and installation before usage.
Tablet
What: Tablets are the latest fad to hit the tech world. These flat screens are about as big as a sheet of letter-sized paper, and can do most things a desktop or laptop computer can.
Pros: Handy and easy to bring around, these tablets offer easier content browsing, whether you are reading your favorite magazine, a book, checking e-mail, or surfing the web. The entire screen is a touchscreen, allowing you to navigate using your finger or a stylus.
Cons: A tablet is more suited for content browsing. You cannot use it to read CDs or watch DVDs .
Smartphone
What: A smartphone is the tablet’s tinier sibling, usually the size of a small index card. It can do everything the tablet can, plus you can use it to make calls and send and receive text messages.
Pros: Very handy and portable, this pocket-sized mini-computer can be accessed anytime, anywhere.
Cons: The screen may be too small, requiring frequent zooming in and panning for you to be able to read your content.