For the first time ever, laptops are outselling desktop computers. It's not that long ago that Intel and others were looking out to 2010 for the point at which more laptops are sold than desktops but it has come quicker than most expected. No doubt this is a trend towards which the computer market has been clearly heading for the best part of a decade.
Experts say this trend could be down to the increasing number of students now needing laptops for school and college. But many consumers also like the flexibility and portability of laptops. Wireless technology and the extra concentration on accessories for laptops have meant they are moving ahead of their more cumbersome relative in the technology stakes. There is also the extra bonus of using the laptop as a ‘home movie’ option and consumers like the mobility for use in bedrooms and kitchens, as wireless connectivity means location is no longer restricted. A recent US survey by the Pew Internet and American Life Project found that the number of internet users with wireless at home has nearly doubled. The same survey found that 80% of laptops had wireless capabilities and 88%
Of course employers also like laptops because they can encourage staff to take their business home and also work ‘on the move’.
The coming quarter will be a good indicator of trends, as in the past, desktops sales increased for the holiday period, as families bought them as ‘home’ Christmas gifts.
The demand for bulky machines will continue to slowly grow but at a declining rate as portable systems become quicker and more efficient.
Should You Replace Your Desktop With A Laptop?
There are a number of reasons why you should consider replacing your desktop computer with a laptop.
- Carrying a desktop from place to place is not practical
- Laptops can be used on the move or brought to other areas to work easily
- Demonstrating new systems or system details can be done in any location
- Laptops usually take up less space on your desk
- Laptops can be shared by staff and moved around the office easily
But you should also bear in mind the following disadvantages of always using a laptop:
- The battery of the laptop often runs out of charge at inconvenient times.
- Using a laptop to see movies will drain the battery quickly
- Laptops often have overheating problems
- A laptop can easily be dropped and smashed. You have to treat laptops carefully which may not fit with everyone's lifestyle
Therefore, some businesses have chosen not to replace the desktop but instead use both. The often prefer to keep a desktop for their home while using a laptop for office and traveling.
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