What is a workstation computer?

Though workstations and desktops may look similar in appearance and operate using similar hardware, the two are actually quite different.

A workstation can be classified as a modified desktop computer that is equipped with a more powerful processor, additional memory, and higher-end graphics cards to deliver more powerful processing outputs.

Much like their desktop siblings, workstations are intended for individual users and can function as personal computers. However one of the most distinct differences between the two is that workstations are typically used by professionals or in professional settings. This is largely due to the jarring difference in performance speed.

Professional industries ranging from mechanical engineering to multimedia firms depend on these mighty machines for everything from model prototyping to 3D graphic rendering. For such demanding tasks, the call of high-processing power is answered by the workstation computer.

It’s worth noting that the advanced benefits of a workstation come with a higher price tag. While a regular desktop computer can cost hundreds of dollars, workstations can leap to over a thousand.

The cost gap is due to the internal hardware components required to make workstations perform at expert levels. So while desktops can get away with cheaper hardware alternatives, workstations sacrifice nothing. They make power and performance a top priority.

What is the difference between a workstation and a desktop?

Understanding the difference between a workstation and a desktop can be rather difficult to the untrained eye, especially because the vast majority of differences exist inside of the chassis. Computers classified as a workstation will generally have these five features:

1. Multiple Processor Cores

With more internal processor cores comes more processing power. Though an increased number of cores doesn’t necessarily guarantee exponential performance boosts, they usually serve as fair indicators of a PC’s power capacity.

2. SSD (Solid-State Drive)

SSDs are becoming more popular among regular desktop computers, but are especially common among workstations since they provide far more local storage space than hard-disk drives (HDDs). Solid-state drives require no moving parts, are smaller in size, and deliver faster performance speeds than their hard-disk drive siblings. Without fear of disk failure, workstation users can take comfort in the increased dependability of a solid-state drive.

3. ECC RAM (Error-Correcting Code Random Access Memory)

Computers can be finicky, especially when they seem to be engineered with a mind of their own. Workstation computers manufactured with ECC effectively make your system more reliable. It’s capable of fixing memory malfunctions before they can affect your system, preventing untimely crashes and much more.

4. RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)

RAID employs a number of internal hard drives to store and process your data. Not only does this mean that you can use multiple drives to power your system, but you can also rest assured knowing that if one drive fails, another already exists as backup to save the day.

5. Optimized GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)

All computers must output to a screen for full functionality, so having an expert-grade GPU ensures that your CPU won’t have to work overtime to deliver the stunning visual outputs you’d expect from a pro-grade computer. Workstations are typically built with optimized GPUs to take the stress of the CPU and speed everything else up.

What to look for when buying a workstation?

In an age where computers have become so incredibly impressive with all they’re able to do, the workstation dares to do more. If you’re in the market for a workstation computer, there are four key considerations to keep in mind as you hunt down your perfect PC.

1. Processor

The computer processor is to your computer what the brain is to the human body. It’s responsible for all of the data-processing you depend on to open and run your files, projects, movies, games, and more. That said, the higher-quality processors make for a higher-quality computer. Ultimately, the performance capability of the processor serves as the proprietary indicator of your workstation’s potential.

2. Storage

Just like you store items in your home, your computer also stores your digital files on its internal drive. When browsing for your ideal workstation computer, be sure to consider just how much storage space you’ll need. You’ll have to account not only for the files you plan on transferring over, but for all of the new files you’ll continue to accumulate over the course of your workstation’s life. Having enough storage space will help you avoid the headache of those frustrating “low storage” notifications.

3. Size

Workstations tend to feature smaller form factor architectures than their larger desktop siblings, though that is not always the case. HP offers a number of different-sized workstations that are designed to meet the needs of all PC users out there. Whether you’re looking for a small tabletop computer or a tall floor-bound machine, HP’s collection of workstations are bound to impress.

4. Price

Whether you’re working with a big budget or a limited one, price matters. Because workstations are higher-performance versions of conventional desktop computers, they tend to run a higher cost than your average computer.

What peripherals should you pair with a workstation?

Computer peripherals are hardware inputs or output devices that bolster the functionality of a computer. They’re referred to as “peripherals” because they don’t typically come with the computer, despite being fully compatible. Think of peripherals as add-ons that enhance your workstation’s setup.

When setting up your HP workstation computer, there are a few HP computer accessories you’ll need to reap the full benefits of your powerhouse machine.

• Monitor
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Speakers
• Webcam
• Headphones

Who are workstation computers good for?

Your day-to-day schedule is as demanding as it is dynamic - it’s only fair to suit yourself up with a computer that can keep up with your pace. Workstations are great for telecommuters, office workers, graphic designers, gamers, data-crunchers, and more.

So whether you’re logging endless hours of plugging data into spreadsheets or bringing two-dimensional illustrations to 3D life, a workstation computer serves as the ultimate one-stop-shop answer.

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