Intel 13th Gen Gaming Laptops

Desktop Vs Laptop Processors

Desktop computers and laptops both utilise a CPU to function, which on first glance may look similar. For example, two computers could be equipped with an Intel Core i9-13900 processor. However, these two processors can vary significantly in their capabilities. The following is a list of some of the key differences you can find between desktop and laptop CPUs:

• Suffix - To help differentiate between a desktop and laptop CPU, they will generally utilise different suffixes. Continuing with the Intel Core i9-13900, desktop processors add an F, K, KS, or KF depending on the model. Meanwhile, a laptop processor may feature an H or HX at the end of their designation.
• Size - A laptop CPU is usually smaller than their desktop counterparts, as they are required to fit into a slimmer form factor computer. In fact, a laptop CPU is often just the CPU die soldered directly on to the motherboard, whereas a desktop processor is a stand-alone component that can be inserted and removed from a computer.
• Performance - When compared directly, a desktop CPU will generally offer better performance compared to a laptop processor, although this gap has shrunk over time. Laptop CPUs have to operate under much more difficult working conditions. As such, they feature a lower power draw, which means they operate at reduced clock speeds. However, this does mean they don’t produce as much waste heat and are easier to cool. This allows for a laptop CPU to be cooled via a smaller cooling solution than would typically be required for a desktop processor.
• Efficiency - Laptops CPUs have been optimised to operate within the constraints of a slimline chassis. They are designed to be highly energy efficient, drawing a fraction of the power of a desktop CPU whilst offering similar performance. As a result, they also produce less waste heat, meaning the cooling solutions utilised by a laptop are more than capable of keeping a CPU at optimum temperatures for longer.