Many of the tasks handled by a computer may also be done on a smartphone or tablet. For a comparison, the computing power of a flagship smartphone generally rivals many laptops and desktop computers from about five years ago.

If you’re deciding whether your next device upgrade should be a desktop computer or a mobile device, there are some key points to consider. Below is a chart that highlights some differences and similarities of each.

Most users today have both a smartphone and a computer in their home. They use a smartphone for phone calls, messaging, browsing the Internet, reading e-mail, and other small jobs and use a computer for more complicated projects or work. If you can’t decide between a smartphone or a computer, consider getting a tablet or a hybrid computer.

  • Computer vs. tablet.
  • See our computer definition for further information and related pages.
  • Are smartphones and tablets computers?
  • Computer-related comparisons.
  • Mobile device help and support.