Computers have come a long way from being gigantic and bulky to being able to fit in our hand and even on our wrists (smart watches). However, the term is still limited to only computers. As laptops became more popular, it was thought that they were PCs. But now you’ll find people who insist laptops are not even considered PCs. So what is a PC? Are laptops PCs?
The term PC refers to personal computer, but was first used by IBM in the 1960s. The acronym stands for “personal computer” and is used as what most people use today’s generation of computers for work and personal life nowadays. The definition of a laptop has gone through different stages over time with some people now calling them notebooks or ultra-portable computing devices (or UPCs).
The first few computers ever made had a monitor that could hardly display a lot of information. But look at the computers now! Enriched with detail and capable of doing so much. And it is improving its features every day!
While the first computers were not meant for personal use, personal computers started becoming a thing after a while. And these personal computers have also come a long way.
In 2021, people own multiple personal computers, each of different shape, size and type even. Makes you wonder, “Is a laptop a PC?” Well we are here to answer your question. The debate about whether a laptop is a PC has been going on for a couple of years now, and we are here to provide an answer to that question. If you are interested, continue reading this article.
Definition of a PC
By definition, a PC is a personal computer that can be used in houses or even carried around for personal purposes. Mostly popularly a desktop computer is known as a PC. But that is only one kind of PC.
The first time a PC was invented, it was a desktop computer. While a desktop computer is the first created version of a PC, it is not the only kind of PC. There are other kinds of PCs as well, that we use on a daily basis.
Is a Laptop considered a PC?
Yes, a laptop is considered a PC. Think about it, a PC is a personal computer. And most of the times a laptop is used by individuals for using personally. You can own a laptop and use it keeping on your desk, or by keeping it on your lap, or however you prefer.
As it is indeed a personal computer, a laptop is considered a PC. A few years ago people would even go as far to call it a laptop PC or a laptop computer. The name laptop originated from the words lap and top as you can use your laptop while keeping it on your lap. It has always been a PC, but one that can be used keeping on your lap.
A laptop is just a portable version of the generic PC. It can do absolutely everything a PC can, and the only major difference is the portability.
So, yes, a laptop is definitely a PC.
Conclusion
So, does that answer your question of “is a laptop a PC?” We hope this article was helpful and you found it informative enough. In conclusion we can say that a laptop is indeed a PC as it can be used by people personally as opposed to only for offices and firms in a combined way.