Thursday 13 October 2011

Why Desktop Computers Are Still A Great Option

Why Desktop Computers Are Still A Great Option


For decades, desktop computers have ruled the roost when it came to power, storage and capability. The only way you could get the most out of games, doing heavy graphics work and massive number crunching was to have some type of desktop computer system. 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. But with advances in technology, better heat distribution and fast low power processors, desktops just aren't as relevant as they used to be. 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. Many schools, hotels, restaurants and areas such as public parks and airports have Wi-Fi connections for their customers and visitors which means that anyone with a laptop or even a smart phone can get online.. Portable devices can now be used to surf the 'net, use instant messaging, doing emails and many other functions have essentially replaced the need for a fixed system. For those who aren't in the power user category, this means desktop computers aren't really necessary.
Also, laptop computers today have multi-core processors, have several gigabytes of RAM and have huge hard drives. 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. Upgrades for desktops are much easier as well since you can easily open the case to swap out components such as replacing smaller RAM modules with larger ones and adding hard drives. Desktop computers are a lot less expensive to repair as well Main board replacements even with an upgraded processor generally costs under $200.
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. While desktops aren't as relevant as they once were, they're far from obsolete.
Researching laptop and desktop computers and software is essential to getting just the right one for you and your family. Computer Shopper has the information you need to find the best computer deals and reviews so you can make an informed decision.

 

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