Woman working on a futuristic computer (iStock)
Sunday, February 12, 2023 / 09:08
Traditional computers no longer matter so much to the average user when they want to buy a new one. And here the next question arises: What does the future of traditional computers look like?
“Laptops are clearly so dominant in the PC market that they make up three-quarters of new devices,” explained Sven Schultz, from German magazine Computer Bild.
The German expert explained the reason for this because the simple concept of folding laptops has become the most comfortable way for many users, and despite that, traditional computers have not lost their luster yet and cannot be viewed as outdated models.
For his part, Matthias Wellendorf, from the German magazine “Inside-Digital.de” explained, “Traditional computers represent more than just huge computing boxes, because these types of devices are now available in models of very compact sizes and elegant interfaces that can be easily integrated into the decor of a room.” Plus, mini PCs can be easily hidden behind monitors with VESA mounts.
Games lovers
In addition, traditional computers are of particular interest to users, who require significant computing power or wish to design their own system. “Gaming enthusiasts usually rely on traditional computers, as well as users who want to get computers with more efficiency and less noise,” added Wolfgang Pauler, from the specialized German magazine “Chip”.
The German expert, Pauler, attributed the reason for this to the fact that traditional computers are not exposed to overheating at the same speed as laptops, in addition to that the larger body allows the possibility of installing larger fans, which operate at a low temperature to obtain the same cooling performance as the small fans installed in laptops, Hence it makes less noise.
“Fast processors generate more heat, and graphics cards need 300 watts of power or more, and there’s not enough space for all of that in thin laptops,” Schultz added.
hardware upgrade
In addition to the easier cooling function, traditional computers also have the advantage of swapping chips, or what is known as a hardware upgrade. Schultz explained, “The hardware upgrade feature is not available in laptops, because the processors are not installed through sockets, and therefore cannot be replaced, in addition to that many components are soldered to the main board.”
RAM cannot be expanded or replaced in laptops, and even if it is possible in some cases it needs experienced users as well as the support of professional technicians.
Traditional computers usually have a distinct advantage in terms of hardware upgrades. The user can easily remove and replace the RAM chips. “It is also easy for the user to increase the number of hard disks in traditional computers,” Wellendorf added.
connection ports
In addition, traditional computers are usually very flexible in terms of connectivity ports. “There is no problem using many peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, printer, scanner and two monitors,” Wellendorf explained.
There are always additional USB ports for charging a smartphone and storing data on USB memory sticks or external hard drives.
Traditional computers can be used as media servers to store pictures, music and movies, and when it comes to the home office, traditional computers provide significant advantages even for costs.
cheaper cost
“If the user has a fixed place in the house for the home office, the traditional desktop computer is cheaper than the laptop,” said Willendorf. The average price difference between a mid-range laptop and a traditional mid-range desktop computer can be regarding $200.
In addition, the user may need additional costs to purchase an external screen, if the size of the laptop screen is not sufficient to carry out daily work tasks. Schultz added, “Traditional laptop screens still come in 15.6 inches, while desktop screens range between 24 and 28 inches. “.
There are some models in which the traditional desktop computer occupies less space on the desktop than laptops, especially when using an external monitor and external peripherals, where the user can hide the traditional desktop computer under the office table.
In general, traditional computers cannot be abandoned in office rooms or gaming halls, given that these models are characterized by the appropriate cost and ease of maintenance in the business world, and therefore it is not expected that this type of computers will disappear at all.
