In the not-so-distant past, the choice between a desktop and a laptop computer was simple: do you want portability, or not? There were a few other clear-cut differences, too. Desktop models offered more power and features and were less expensive, while laptops were portable, but also more costly, and less ergonomic.

While some of these differences remain, advances in technology make many of them insignificant. Laptop prices have fallen, and the machines now offer even more power and features. Desktop models are less bulky than they used to be, and with the proliferation of devices like USBs, portability of data is not such a big issue. So how do you choose?

Here are a few points to consider.

What’s your workspace like?
Space is a big factor to consider. If you have limited space on your desk or workplace, you might consider a business laptop that can easily be put away to make room for other items. Otherwise, you could look into the smaller form factor desktop PCs and a flat screen monitor in order to conserve space.

Where do you use a computer most often, and what do you use it for?
If you use a computer mainly for word processing and Internet purposes, a laptop might be a practical choice when travelling. However, hard-core gamers, video editors or graphic designers may require additional memory and storage, which could in turn potentially increase the cost and the weight of a laptop PC – so much so, that it may no longer be practical to lug it around. In that case, you might as well purchase a desktop computer or workstation which you can cost-effectively and easily equip and add on to, without worrying about weight.

On the other hand, if you’re often on the road and just want a portable computer for basic e-mailing and word processing, you might find that some laptops are more than what you need. In this case, consider one of the Ultralight Laptops that can be an inch thick and weigh just two or three pounds.

How much storage do you need?
Because laptops have physically smaller drives, they can only offer so much storage space. If you have extreme storage needs – like lots of music files or an extensive video library – a desktop is usually the best choice, unless you are also willing to invest in additional external storage devices.

What about ergonomics?
Early laptops had cramped keyboards and small, dimly lit, hard-to-read screens. Nowadays most of these issues have been resolved, but for certain users, desktops still may be the better choice to help prevent injuries and discomfort. Because a desktop's monitor and keyboard are separate, you can move and adjust them as needed, and desktop monitors can be purchased in much larger sizes than what is available on a laptop. A laptop's setup, with an attached keyboard and monitor, provides less flexibility. It is however possible to set a laptop up in a way that’s ergonomically similar to a desktop (with an additional keyboard and monitor), but the extra equipment required might negate the entire purpose of having a laptop.

For more information on the benefits of desktops versus laptops and visa-versa, read this related discussion in HP Community forums. You can also expand your horizons by looking into the amazing new HP TouchSmart and the Tablet PCs.