Is the Desktop Becoming Legacy?
Linked by kloty on Tue 6th Apr 2010 21:22 UTC
Editorial A few years ago I wrote on OSNews several articles (1,2) about workstations. After three years I had to stop, because there were no workstations left on the market, they became legacy and were not sold any more. Now with the rise of mobile devices with touchscreen and wireless network connectivity virtually everywhere, the question becomes valid, what will happen with the desktop computers, are they still needed, or will they follow the workstations on their way to computer museums?
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RE[2]: Comment by ssa2204
by Kroc on Wed 7th Apr 2010 08:55 UTC in reply to "RE: Comment by ssa2204"
Kroc
Member since:
2005-11-10

But maybe I could be persuaded to give up hardware upgrades if the price was right.

Convienience. I used to build and maintain my own computer for ages, and eventually I grew tired of that. Upgrading is great and all, but at the end of the day you want to save space, you want to declutter and you want to spend more time being productive than forever maintaining your computer. I went from hand building a desktop cheaply to an expensive Mac laptop and haven’t looked back.

The desktop will eventually be the domain of the engineer and the “fetishist hardcore gamer”. The rest of us will have moved on to a less stressful, less complicated computing experience.

Reply Parent Score: 1

RE[3]: Comment by ssa2204
by r_a_trip on Wed 7th Apr 2010 10:24 in reply to "RE[2]: Comment by ssa2204"
r_a_trip Member since:
2005-07-06

I think this is a grave oversimplification. I'm neither an engineer nor a “fetishist hardcore gamer”. I like the simplicity of the PS3 and Wii for gaming. Yet I also like to build my own PC's. It gives me the option of tailoring the components to my needs and budget, while still getting a sturdy workhorse. A self built PC, with well selected components doesn't have to be more hassle than a shelf bought PC. Mine have always behaved very well.

Even "an expensive Mac laptop" will need software maintenace at some point. And "an expensive Mac laptop" can have hardware problems. Plonking down money is not a guarantee against malfunctioning.

Reply Parent Score: 4

Bill Shooter of Bul Member since:
2006-07-14

I'm not a hardcore whiteboxer. I just build them once, often from barebones kits. I wont touch them again unless there is a problem. Its more satisfying to know exactly what's in the box.

Although... I also have a Mac book. But it still allows me to upgrade the memory, hard drive and battery. I've upgraded all but the battery, and it's much better after my modifications. Its still running OSX, but its getting used less and less. When I do use it, I typically hook it up to a 24 inch monitor and usb keyboard and mouse.

Reply Parent Score: 2