1.3: What are the Different Types of Computers?

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There are billions of computers in our society today. Computers can come in all shapes and sizes, and they perform a variety of functions to allow our society to function. You use computers to purchase goods, perform a math calculation for a test, or watch tv. It would be hard for you to complete a day without directly or indirectly using a computer.

Desktop Computers

Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

Desktop computers are usually large and designed to be typically made up of a few different parts including the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Typically, Desktops are the most powerful computers.

Laptop Computers

Figure \(\PageIndex{2}\): This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

The second type of computer that is the most popular type of traditional computer at present is a laptop computer. Laptops are battery-powered computers that are portable than desktops, allowing you to use them almost anywhere. Most laptops have all of the components of a computer connected so you can easily move your computer. Laptops are usually less powerful than desktops.

Tablet Computers

Tablet computers are a relatively new form factor of computers. Tablets are handheld computers that are meant for more mobility than laptops. They use touch screen navigation instead of a keyboard or mouse. The iPad is an example of a tablet computer.

Servers

Figure \(\PageIndex{3}\): This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

Servers are used to provide information to other computers or devices on a local area network (LAN). Servers usually have large hard drives for storage and are very powerful computers. Servers are not usually meant for consumers and are stored in racks by IT professionals to help with cooling. Servers can often run hundreds of computers at once.

Other types of computers

Many of today's electronics are computers, though we don't always think of them that way. Here are a few common examples.

Smartphones: Many cell phones can do a lot of things computers can do, including browsing the Internet and playing games.

Wearables: Wearable technology is a general term for a group of devices—including fitness trackers and smartwatches—that are designed to be worn throughout the day.

Game consoles: A game console is a specialized type of computer that is used for playing video games on your TV.

TVs: Many TVs now include applications—or apps—that let you access various types of online content. For example, you can stream video from the Internet directly onto your TV.