Why Desktop Computers Are Far From Obsolete

Ever since Apple popularized desktop computers in the late 1970's, they've been the top end units when it came to storage, ability and power. Any power user who played the newest games, does heavy graphics design and large scale number processing had to have the best desktop computer system available. Due to heat constraints, and size limitations, laptops had slower processors, less hard drive space and less memory even though they were considerably more expensive. However, in today's hyper-connected world, and with huge advances in technology, desktop systems simply aren't as relevant as they once were. However, this begs the question, are desktops obsolete?

Unquestionably, laptop computers are far more portable enabling users to take their computer with them virtually anywhere they go. Schools, restaurants, hotels and even public areas like parks and airports are providing wi-fi connectivity and smart phones allow internet access anywhere you can get a signal which is virtually everywhere now. Since portable devices like smart phones and tablets can be used to surf online, instant message and chat, emails and other things, the need for a desktop isn't as sharp. This means desktop computers aren't required for many things users have a need for.

Advances in technology have ushered in multi-core processors, gigabytes of RAM and terabyte hard drives for laptops. Couple these with a high end graphics processor chip which many manufacturers are doing and a laptop will do games and graphics work just as well as any desktop computer available. All it takes to make it a full replacement for desktop systems is to have a docking station which makes it easy to add multiple screens, a full sized keyboard and mouse and you're done. Thanks to the technology, laptops are a lot more affordable now as well. Today, finding laptops with dual, triple or quad core processors, 4 gigs of RAM and a 350 gig hard drive for under $500 is easy to do.

Unfortunately, desktops still have the ability to do things that simply can't be done with a laptop. Desktops have slots designed to handle expansion cards to add functionality such as firewire cards, additional USB ports, RAID controllers and multiple graphics cards by simply opening the case and popping in the card. Also, desktops are much easier to add memory and hard drive capacity as well as doing upgrades such as replacing a CD-ROM drive with a Blu-ray. Repairs for desktop computers are a lot less expensive as well Main board replacements even with an upgraded processor generally costs under $200l.

Although mobile devices and laptops have replaced desktops in many ways, there's still a need for desktops, especially for hardcore gamers and in office environments. Regardless of the fact that laptops are taking advantage of advanced technology, desktop systems are still easier to upgrade and expand and still give you more computer for your dollar. Even though desktops have been replaced for a lot of users, they're nowhere near obsolete.

Comments? Questions? Email Here

© HowtoAdvice.com

How to Advice .com