The Innovative Alternatives: Why get a desktop when these are around?

Hybrids and Detachables

When Microsoft launched Windows 8 with a touch-optimized interface, a number of manufacturers launched hybrid and detachable devices that offered the benefit of a traditional laptop as well as a tablet. These hybrids are easy to carry around, have great battery life and are powerful enough to suit the requirements of most users.

Ultra Small Form Factor PCs

Get one when you want something stylish that won’t take up too much room inside your house. Some can be attached on the back of a monitor. They may be small, but they offer the usual gamut of ports (6 – 8 USB ports, HDMI, LAN) & are powerful enough to run programs like Photoshop. Icing on the cake is that they consume the same power as a laptop.


Full Function Tablets

If you choose a tablet with Windows 8, you get hardware similar to entry-level laptops but in a much more portable form factor. They usually have 8 to 10-inch screens, expandable storage & 4-8 hours of battery life. Many can be connected to a larger display or used with a wireless keyboard.

HTPCs

If you only need a desktop for media consumption, why not get a home theatre PC (HTPC) – you can use your TV as a monitor. You can customise it, upgrade when required, install any OS you like and attach accessories like a webcam or wireless controller/keyboard.


Large AIOs with Touchscreens

You can choose an all-in-one with a large touchscreen, powerful hardware and all the usual ports available on a desktop computer. It’s great as a sort of living room or family computer.