What I mean to say is, are there average parts in computers already fast enough to suit most users so that you're more inclined to pay a premium for a "better" computer as opposed to the computer with the most RAM or the fastest clock speed?
I'm going to take the (current) MacBook Air for example. It's most definitely not the fastest computer out there and won't be fast enough for the vast majority of computer enthusiasts. At the same time, most aspects of the computer are much better than your average Dell or HP (This is not an "Apple tax" discussion by the way).
In the scenario, we're talking about an "average" but somewhat tech savvy user, not someone who has special computer needs.
Discussion about
Are we at a point where it is more important to have a more well built computer than a faster computer?
I think that for right now you are correct. I think that right now, today you are right the “average” user doesn’t need the horsepower that is being pumped out right now.
But, (isn’t there always but?) in a few years once the software developers out there start-creating software that really takes advantage of the processor and RAM and really start developing software that really pushes this is when we start needing the muscle again.
But what I also wonder is that are we seeing a change where this new software to push this new hardware is going to be more server based so that it offers a more cloud like solution?
I really think that the “average” user is going to migrate towards faster and better smart phones, tablets that offer only some functionality (like the iPad) and even ultra portable PCs instead of the traditional desktop or laptop.
How long till the smart phones and these tablets catch up to the desktops and laptops?
But, (isn’t there always but?) in a few years once the software developers out there start-creating software that really takes advantage of the processor and RAM and really start developing software that really pushes this is when we start needing the muscle again.
But what I also wonder is that are we seeing a change where this new software to push this new hardware is going to be more server based so that it offers a more cloud like solution?
I really think that the “average” user is going to migrate towards faster and better smart phones, tablets that offer only some functionality (like the iPad) and even ultra portable PCs instead of the traditional desktop or laptop.
How long till the smart phones and these tablets catch up to the desktops and laptops?
Do you mean 'better built' or 'prettier'? Because in the case of e.g. Apple, the two are not the same, especially when you get to a consumer focus.
Obviously as a style statement, there's another element to your purchases.
Broad-brush statements, but for most people however I'd say mobility is more important these days. Those who're driven by price buy netbooks. Those who want something which fundamentally works without caring the ins and outs of how it would work, and want something to be a statement of their aspirations choose Apple. Those who know exactly what they're buying choose something else more specific.
There's also a larger chunk of users who're purely consumers of information, and for these people I see tablets and smartphones replacing laptops for the vast majority of their needs.
Obviously as a style statement, there's another element to your purchases.
Broad-brush statements, but for most people however I'd say mobility is more important these days. Those who're driven by price buy netbooks. Those who want something which fundamentally works without caring the ins and outs of how it would work, and want something to be a statement of their aspirations choose Apple. Those who know exactly what they're buying choose something else more specific.
There's also a larger chunk of users who're purely consumers of information, and for these people I see tablets and smartphones replacing laptops for the vast majority of their needs.
