Laptop

A laptop, also known as a notebook computer, is a portable personal computer with an integrated display, keyboard, touchpad, and battery. It is designed for mobile use and is capable of running the same software as desktop computers. Laptops are built around a clamshell chassis with a lid that protects the screen and a base housing the motherboard, storage, and input devices. Connectivity typically includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and various ports.

Historically, portable computers emerged in the 1980s with models such as Osborne 1 and Compaq Portable, evolving through smaller, lighter designs to the modern thin-and-light laptops. Advances in processor efficiency, display technology, solid-state storage, and battery energy density enabled longer runtimes and higher performance. The 2010s introduced thin ultrabooks and 2-in-1 convertibles that combine laptop and tablet form factors, with chromebook variants focusing on cloud-based computing.

Most laptops use mobile CPUs and integrated or dedicated GPUs, with configurations ranging from entry-level to high-end workstation levels. Common specifications include 8–32 GB of RAM and 256 GB to several terabytes of storage, often solid-state drives. Displays typically range from 11 to 17 inches, with varying resolutions and refresh rates. Laptops rely on batteries for power and typically offer built-in webcams, microphones, and USB-C/Thunderbolt ports for peripherals.

Laptops offer portability, immediate setup, and versatile connectivity but may sacrifice upgradability, cooling efficiency, and price per performance compared with desktops. Battery life varies by workload and model. They come in several categories, including ultraportables, gaming laptops, business notebooks, workstation laptops, rugged models, and Chromebooks, as well as detachable or convertible 2-in-1 designs.