The New Desktop Computer Before it Becomes Obsolete

Does anyone still buy desktops? I've been asking myself this question. In an age where most computer programmers are starting to work off laptops, is the era of the desktop finally over? I don't know, but except for all-in-one solutions like the Apple iMac and the HP Touchsmart, I'm pretty sure that desktop PCs sales are crashing. Laptops are in. They are convenient, small and portable. You can sit down in a coffee shop and work, or even in your bed or on your sofa, lounging about. The same can't be said for a desktop.

The HP LiM concept, which stands for Less is More, features a 19" transparent OLED touchscreen with a wireless keyboard. The keyboard isn't really the impressive part. What is interesting is the form factor and the screen, obviously. The casing is made out of bamboo, which acts as an effective heat diffuser. With computers quickly shrinking in sizes, it's easy to see why people are buying less desktops. Desktops aren't portable, and most of us like to have computers with out when we are going around town.

The LiM concept was designed by Jeffrey S. Engelhardt. His design also uses a virtual trackpad. I don't know if desktop computers are relevant anymore. I bought my last desktop in 2006. We still have one at home, but I find that it's just more convenient to use my laptop wherever I go. Students tend to use laptops almost exclusively, as well as most people who deal with computers on a day to day basis. The same is true in the IT field. Programmers and network admins no longer need their giant towers. They can just remotely log onto their servers, via a laptop. Still this concept is interesting. Time will only tell if the desktop computer will be relevant in a few years. [via Yanko Design]

MORE DESKTOPS
HP Touchsmart, the Perfect Desktop?
Lenovo's IdeaCentre

Comments (12)

"I'm pretty sure (something is true)" is a poor substitute for taking a few seconds to search for facts. Yes, desktop PC sales have gone down in the U.S., but they have gone up worldwide. There's an article here:

http://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS21190708

And, yes, people still buy desktops. Lots of people do. Laptops are more expensive and less powerful than desktops and limit your choice of display (or require added expense to acquire another display). People who do professional video or graphics work wouldn't be caught dead using only a laptop because the monitors can't be calibrated as well as a desktop display and the video cards are often inferior and integrated.

What does it take to write for Unplgged anyway? Merely a marginal interest in cool-looking tech, but not actual ability to understand the topic you're writing about?

I'm a Graphic Artist and recently upgraded my old PowerMac and Monitor combo. I was pretty determined to stay with that arrangement but wound up going with an
iMac instead.

There is a big gap between video cards & hard drives space on desktops and laptops unless you are willing to pay more than double to get the laptop equivalent (remember, with laptops you are paying for portability) so, I don't think desktops are going to disappear anytime soon.

What I could see is all-in-one solutions replacing cpu/monitor setups for a majority of desktop users, even if it's solely due to space issues.

Although laptops are portable and take up no space, I still prefer working on a desktop. I absolutely HATE the little tiddly winks keyboards on laptops. I guess that you can get used to it, but I much prefer a regular keyboard and a larger screen.

desktops are over.
laptops are in.
end of story.

I could not agree with orchid enough.
I am repeatedly surprised by the number of poorly informed articles on this site.
Its like if a bunch of video game blog writers decided to start writing about home furnishings.

I got a PowerBook when I went to college, and thinking about getting a new computer, I really like my laptop. But Having had an iMac prior to the laptop, I hate that it is not easier to upgrade and always said I would get a tower next. I'm not sure if I really will at this point, I might just get a Mini if they ever come out with new ones, because of the price. However I still feel this would be a "temporary" solution (so I can run CS4) until I can afford a PowerMac. I don't see the need to get another laptop if already have one that's still running great. Just because I get a new computer doesn't mean my last one is useless. If I didn't already have a laptop I'm not sure if I would want one or not. Having had one, if the one I have ever died, I'd get another.

I just bought a new Power Mac. It's not dead in this house (well, my old one was, but I'm not switching). I use one at work, too.

If this blog were a magazine this article would be one of those that inspires many 'cancel my subscription' letters.

Most computer programmers are not working off laptops; unless of course by computer programmer you mean...content author?

new "power mac" ?

It's been years since they have had a model called that.

I am in total agreement with Orchid64 and sweetiebox is WRONG! Desktops are far superior when it comes to overall computing power for graphic design and video editing (and gaming!) and I for one will always have a desktop.

Please do your research before posting such a misinformed article.

Ah. I meant a Mac Pro. My brain is back in the '90s, but my computer is up to date.

Love my desktop! Some of us want power over portability. I don't like typing on a laptop, as it feels like I'm playing the organ in "The Ghose and Mr. Chicken" (give me wrist cramps!).