Another thing to note is that laptops have slower hard drives, by default, than desktop machines. Depending on your laptop, your hard drive could have an RPM of 4200, 5400, or 7200 with the first two being most common. This would slow down performance on a comparative note, but not on a usage note.
I just wanted to add that if you were comparing it to a desktop or perhaps a friends laptop which might be newer and faster.
Also, heat is a real issue with laptops, you really shouldn't leave them on 24/7, unless you get a lap cooler or similar device.