Desktops shouldn't so long as you're not using one of those cr@ppy old power-hungry CRT screens. LCD screens for desktop computers are much cheaper these days, because CRTs have practically been phased out. They also last longer and take up much less room, and are generally more adjustable for ergonomic purposes.
Personally, I would get a desktop unless you really needed the mobility offered by a laptop. You can get greater processing power, greater graphics capabilities, more customisability, cheaper and better ergonomics from a desktop computer. The screen is also able to be larger. Desktops are also generally much more indestructible, you can more easily replace parts, and they overheat less.
Whatever you're getting, you need to get a good brand that is easy and cheap to get repaired, and will have at least 3 years of good performance in it. Personally, I would avoid Apple products like the plague - they are very attractive and have some nice features but are very expensive to get repaired unless you are covered under warranty, much more difficult to do DIY repairs, almost impossible to upgrade by shoving in a new processor/graphics card, and every Apple product I have had has died within 2 months after the warranty ended. Also freeze a lot more, and a lot of software still isn't compatible with it (e.g. AutoCAD, most statistical and mathematical software etc).
I have also had horrible experiences with HP, the chosen brand used by my work. Very unreliable, and this was the experience across the organisation. Dells are more reliable and a lot cheaper, but in my experience get very slow with consistent use until they are very frustrating to use at about 2 years of age. Same as Lenovo. By far the best experience I've had with a brand is Toshiba. Have also heard good stuff elsewhere.
Whatever you get, avoid a Celeron processor as they are just not worth it. Slow slow slow, even for basic activities, after a very short time. If you buy a desktop you can get the main parts separate (often a cheaper way of ensuring quality in the areas you want e.g. better screen or music-quality speakers or ergonomic keyboard) and put them together very easily (just a plug here and a plug there, which you'd have to do with a package anyway).
Good luck in your shopping!