Translation guide
A personal computer designed to be used on a desk, as opposed to a laptop or tablet. In Japanese, the most common term is デスクトップパソコン, often shortened to デスクトップ. The word パソコン itself means 'personal computer' and can refer to both desktops and laptops, so context or modifiers are used to specify.
Referring to a desktop computer in everyday conversation.
The standard term combining 'desktop' and 'personal computer'. Widely understood and used in both spoken and written Japanese.
新しいデスクトップパソコンを買いました。
I bought a new desktop computer.
A common abbreviation of デスクトップパソコン. Used when the context makes it clear you're talking about a computer, not a desk surface.
デスクトップの方が性能がいいです。
Desktops have better performance.
Literally 'desktop-type personal computer'. More formal or technical, often seen in product descriptions.
このデスクトップ型パソコンは省スペース設計です。
This desktop computer has a space-saving design.
Distinguishing a desktop computer from a laptop or notebook.
The standard way to contrast desktops and laptops. ノートパソコン means 'laptop/notebook computer'.
デスクトップパソコンとノートパソコン、どちらがいいですか？
Which is better, a desktop or a laptop?
Means 'stationary type' and can be used to describe a desktop computer as opposed to a portable one. Often used in technical contexts.
据え置き型のパソコンは拡張性が高い。
Stationary computers have high expandability.
Referring to a desktop computer in formal, business, or technical settings.
Uses the full loanword 'computer' instead of the abbreviation パソコン. Sounds more formal or technical.
当社ではデスクトップコンピューターを全社員に支給しています。
Our company provides desktop computers to all employees.
Abbreviation using 'PC' (personal computer). Common in IT-related contexts and written materials.
デスクトップPCの需要が再び高まっている。
Demand for desktop PCs is rising again.
The English word 'desktop' can also refer to the main screen of a computer's graphical interface. In Japanese, that is デスクトップ画面 (デスクトップがめん) or simply デスクトップ. Context usually clarifies which meaning is intended.
デスクトップにアイコンを追加する。
Add an icon to the desktop.
The word パソコン (personal computer) can refer to both desktops and laptops. If you need to be specific, use デスクトップパソコン or ノートパソコン. In many casual conversations, パソコン is sufficient when the type is obvious from context.