The key difference between Desktop pc and computer Tower is that A desktop PC is a complete computing setup including peripherals, while a computer tower is the enclosure housing the main internal components of the PC.
What is Desktop PC?
A desktop computer is a personal computing device designed to fit on an office desk. It contains the hardware necessary for computing and connects to input devices like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Desktop computers are widely used in both business settings and for personal activities such as gaming. In professional environments, they are essential tools for many tasks.
Core Features and Components
A desktop computer comprises several key components, including a processor housed in either a microtower or minitower that fits under the desk, or a unit that sits on top of the desk. It also includes a motherboard, the primary circuit board, which typically adheres to standardized form factors like Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX), microATX, or Balanced Technology extended. Additionally, desktop computers contain disk storage.
Most desktop computers come with a built-in modem and multi-gigabyte magnetic storage drives. They feature standard extension slots such as Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe). Desktops require a continuous power supply, typically through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), meaning they must be plugged in at all times to operate.
Desktop users often connect their computers to printers. Additionally, desktops can be interconnected across a local area network (LAN) to share resources and peripherals like printers.
What is Computer Tower?
A computer tower is the enclosure that contains the main components of a desktop computer system. Inside the metal or plastic casing, you’ll find essential parts such as the motherboard, CPU, RAM, storage drives, and power supply.
The tower organizes these sensitive internal components and allows for easy access when upgrades are needed. Its design also impacts airflow and cooling efficiency. Much like a house protects its occupants, the computer tower safeguards the PC’s internal parts.
In the past, computer towers were large, beige boxes that occupied a lot of space under desks. Nowadays, towers come in various sizes, from compact mini-ITX cases to larger models that can accommodate numerous RGB fans. Let’s explore the evolution of computer towers over time.
Desktop PC vs Computer Tower
The major difference between desktop pc and computer tower is given below:
| Desktop PC | Computer Tower | |
| Definition | A complete personal computing device designed for desk use. | The enclosure housing the main components of a desktop PC. |
| Components Included | Includes tower, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and peripherals. | Includes only the case and internal components (motherboard, CPU, RAM, storage drives, power supply). |
| Size | Can vary but generally includes external peripherals. | Sizes range from mini-ITX to full-tower, focusing only on the internal components. |
| Purpose | Provides a complete computing experience with necessary input and output devices. | Protects and organizes the internal hardware of a desktop PC. |
| Portability | Generally not portable due to combined peripherals and case. | Case-only, can be more portable when compared to an entire desktop setup. |
| Cooling and Airflow | Depends on the design of the entire setup including peripherals. | Designed specifically to enhance airflow and cooling for internal components. |
| Upgradability | Depends on the case and the type of peripherals used. | Usually easier to upgrade internal components due to accessible design. |
| Historical Evolution | Has evolved from bulky setups to more compact all-in-one designs. | Transitioned from large beige cases to sleek, varied sizes with advanced cooling options. |
| Usage | Commonly used in both enterprise and personal environments. | Integral part of the desktop PC, critical for component protection and organization. |
| Visual Appeal | Aesthetics vary with design, often less customizable. | Highly customizable with options for RGB lighting and transparent panels. |