Image source: http://image.shutterstock.com/z/stock-vector-an-old-vintage-retro-obsolete-computer-106240979.jpg
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. Laptops generally had slower processors, less memory, smaller hard drives and were significantly more expensive than desktop computers. 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. 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. This means desktop computers aren't required for many things users have a need for.
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. Add in a docking station to make it easy to connect full size screens, keyboards and other peripherals and the laptop actually becomes a complete replacement for desktop systems. Even prices for laptops are extremely reasonable now. 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.
However, desktop systems still offer capabilities that laptops simply can't. Since desktop systems have slots, adding new functions such as multiple graphics cards, firewire cards, additional USB ports and RAID controllers is as simple as opening the case and inserting 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 Even a main board replacement with a processor upgrade is usually less than $200.
While mobile devices and laptops are replacing desktops in a lot of respects, there is still a need for desktop computers in many cases, especially in the office and for gamers. Even with the advanced technology that goes into laptops today, desktop systems are still more capable, easier to expand and upgrade and gives you more performance for your dollar. While desktops aren't as relevant as they once were, they're far from obsolete.
