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What about desktop computers? They are arguably more long-lasting, adaptable (upgradable), more powerful and cheaper than laptops. But of course, their prinicpa

What about desktop computers? They are arguably more long-lasting, adaptable (upgradable), more powerful and cheaper than laptops. But of course, their prinicpal disadvantage is their lack of portability. If portability isn't a consideration, them I still recommend desktops when buying a computer. My home desktop is 8 years old (bought in 2012) and running fine and fast. Of course, it has been upgraded e.g. it has more memory and a second hard drive. Desktops give you the space to upgrade without having to wastefully throw away perfectly working components. Can one say the same about laptops?

II2II 6y ago
Aside from portability, power consumption tends to be a drawback with desktop computers. The difference may not be a factor for most people, but it sounds like it would be an factor for the author. Given the author's mention of the environmental impact of producing computers, it is also worth asking what it amounts to for desktops. While the longevity of the machine will help, the additional materials and replacement components (to achieve that longevity) will have an additional impact. The question is how much, since I doubt that it scales linearly with mass.
_carbyau_ 6y ago
Decisions in portable vs not may be a side effect of stability in lifestyle space. Desktop implies desk. And well, a chair I guess. :-) People living in various group houses, moving all the time etc see a laptop as making that all easy. Let alone those living from their car etc etc. Anecdotally, I am fortunate enough to be amazed at friends who want a "gaming laptop" but then have a "nest" on the couch hunched over the coffee table. I keep wondering why they don't set aside a space for themselves when computing. And if you do that, a desktop naturally follows... For me, a desktop, tablet and phone covers it all. And the tablet may not get replaced when it's time is up.
- GoblinSlayer 6y ago
  A permanently allocated desk. If you have other uses for the desk, the desktop will get in the way, while laptop can move to a shelf when not needed.

II2II 6y ago

Aside from portability, power consumption tends to be a drawback with desktop computers. The difference may not be a factor for most people, but it sounds like it would be an factor for the author. Given the author's mention of the environmental impact of producing computers, it is also worth asking what it amounts to for desktops. While the longevity of the machine will help, the additional materials and replacement components (to achieve that longevity) will have an additional impact. The question is how much, since I doubt that it scales linearly with mass.

_carbyau_ 6y ago

Decisions in portable vs not may be a side effect of stability in lifestyle space. Desktop implies desk. And well, a chair I guess. :-) People living in various group houses, moving all the time etc see a laptop as making that all easy. Let alone those living from their car etc etc. Anecdotally, I am fortunate enough to be amazed at friends who want a "gaming laptop" but then have a "nest" on the couch hunched over the coffee table. I keep wondering why they don't set aside a space for themselves when computing. And if you do that, a desktop naturally follows... For me, a desktop, tablet and phone covers it all. And the tablet may not get replaced when it's time is up.

GoblinSlayer 6y ago
A permanently allocated desk. If you have other uses for the desk, the desktop will get in the way, while laptop can move to a shelf when not needed.