Computers differ mainly in processing power.
Computers mainly differ from each other in processing power. A computer's processing power determines its capability to execute tasks. For different kinds of users, there are certain types of computers to meet their needs. These types can range from doing typical everyday consumer tasks to handling enormous amounts of data and complex processes. As the processing power increases in scope, costs increase significantly as well.
Microcomputers
Microcomputers are the most common type of consumer computers. The name is based on microprocessors, single chips which determine the operating power of the computer. Desktop computers are among the prevalent types of microcomputers. Mobile microcomputers are a sub-type of this category including laptops, game consoles and smart phones. Notable microcomputers are the Apple's Macs and Windows' PCs, both manufactured in desktop, laptop and tablet formats. These two types of microcomputers mainly differ from each other through their graphical user interface (GUI). As of 2011, desktop computers have a typical cost range from $400 to $1000, while mobile microcomputers can range in between $300 to $1500.
Mainframe Computers
Mainframe computers are large computers typically designed for bulk data processes. They can handle nationwide economic statistics, census data and enterprise resource systems. Mainframe processing power is measured in millions of instructions per second (MIPS). Governments and corporations typically use mainframe computers. Multiple users in remote locations can access a mainframe computer at once. According to Thomas E. Beach, Ph.D., professor at the University of New Mexico, Los Alamos, mainframe computers can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.
Minicomputers
Minicomputers or midrange computers are multi-user computers which are typically less powerful than mainframe computers. Minicomputers were developed during the 1960s when the evolution of processing technology allowed for cheaper alternatives to the mainframe computer. These had initially cost around $100,000 during their release, but have been largely replaced by higher end microcomputers such as workstations. As of 2011, workstations can cost from $1500 to $8000.
Super Computer
Super computers are among the most powerful computers in terms of data processing and calculations. These are used for highly complex and intensive processing tasks such as weather forecasting and theoretical physics. Thomas E. Beach, Ph.D., reports that some supercomputers are constructed by connecting multiple microcomputers together and utilizing a pooled processing power. For example, in 2010, the United States Air Forced used around 1700 PlayStation 3 game consoles to construct a super computer which quickly analyzes high-resolution images. Supercomputers typically cost several millions of dollars.
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