Is there any difference between laptops and desktops in performance and reliability wise?
It depends on an individuals need. None of us here will be able to say whether you should have a laptop or a desktop. It obviously doesn’t make sense to carry around a desktop where ever to go. Both are almost equally priced but what you should understand is that a laptops battery has a life of approximately one and a half to two years and replacing batteries are expensive. Also laptops are more delicate compared to a desktop. First make a proper decision before to take the plunge. Here is a link which should be of some help to you.