A desktop computer is used on a desk and is not portable. It consists of a computer, a screen called a monitor, a keyboard, a mouse and often some speakers. The Parts of a Computer are joined together with wires called ‘cables’.
Figure 1 : A desktop computer
A laptop computer is a computer designed for portable use. The laptop incorporates the monitor, computer, keyboard, mouse (touchpad) and speakersinto a single device (see parts of a computer). The laptop has a battery, which means it can be used without being plugged in to the wall. This battery is charged by means of a power supply.
Figure 2 : A laptop computer
A netbook is a small, light, low-power notebook computer that has less processing power than a full-sized laptop but is still suitable for word processing, running a Web browser and connecting wirelessly to the Internet.
Figure 3 : An example of a netbook
An all-in-one PC is a personal computer mounted on the desk like a standard monitor, but with the computer built in to the monitor unit. It must be powered by a power supply. A keyboard and mouse are usually connected to it. All-in-one PCs often have a touch-screen, allowing users to make things happen by touching the screen.
Figure 4 : An all-in-one computer
A tablet computer is a hand held computer with a touch-screen. Some tablets are equipped with a stylus (or pointer) for ease of interaction with the touch screen.
Figure 5 : A typical tablet computer