Desktop differs from other types of computer such as laptops, which are a portable type of personal computer that can be plugged in anywhere. Tablet PCs are another type of self-contained computer, where the user interacts with the device using a touch screen.

Unlike laptops, the set-up of a desktop PC is generally divided into several components. There may be a monitor, a keyboard, a mouse as well as a large CPU. These may be connected wirelessly.