It’s Time to Replace that Old Computer, What Are Your Options?

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It seems ridiculous now, but there was a time not so long ago when colorful, bulbous iMacs were the sleekest, most technologically hip computers available. Then laptops swept the market, putting desktops to shame in any measure of flexibility and mobility…just as long as we didn’t mind lugging around 10 extra pounds in our backpacks and briefcases.

Sure, laptops have gotten progressively lighter since they first surged into popularity, but even the lightest laptops on offer today will soon look like frothing beasts next to the super compact ultrabook laptops and tablets that are sure to replace them. Here are our top four reasons why you should consider replacing your old computer with one of these new options…besides the simple fact that they’re completely awesome.

1. Those unbeatable dimensions.

You’ve probably seen an iPad before. Imagine a laptop that’s just about that size and weight and you’ve got an ultra-light, ultra-slim, ultra-powerful Ultrabook. With an average thickness of .8 inches and a weight of 3.3 pounds, there are no briefcases required for portability. A super-stylish, everyday purse will do.

And about that iPad: tablets are increasingly becoming an alternative to laptops, easily attached to keyboards. With Microsoft’s imminent release of the new Surface tablet, which comes with a flexible and durable frame and keyboard, you’ll have even more options for tablet-based computing. You’ll get everything your current laptop or desktop can offer with the ultimate in touch technology.

2. The wonders of flash-based solid state drives (SSD).

SSD will be the secret ingredient to the new laptop and tablet success. SSD works entirely without moving parts, making the technology that employs it difficult to break, compact, and equipped with a battery life of five to eight hours. SSD also enables software to boot up and resume quickly, so all you have to do is press a button and you’re ready to go. Can you say the same thing about that old MacBook Pro?

3. They can actually, you know, do things.

The first question most people ask when they’re considering replacing their old computer with an ultrabook or a tablet is how it can actually do anything, considering that most tablets and ultrabooks can only store a limited amount of data. To that we have a few words: processing power and the cloud.

Thanks to a new and fast processor from Intel, the ultrabook’s ability to process complex graphics is right up there with any laptop’s. Plus, both ultrabooks and tablets are designed with the cloud in mind, encouraging users to store data not on bulky hard drives but on external servers. Going this route means embracing the current shift in mentality from personal computers as the end all be all for your data to personal computers as a powerful workspace that will get you from one place to the next.

4. The latest operating systems.

The newest ultrabooks and tablets will be compatible with the latest operating systems, allowing you to take advantage of programs that can enhance your ability to both work and relax like a pro. While staying up to date with every new OS release isn’t necessary, missing more than two will put you seriously behind. Plus, access to the latest and the greatest OS on your ultrabook or tablet means being able to sync all of your devices, allowing for seamless integration.

So there you have it. Our top four reasons why ultrabooks and tablets are soon to be the go-to for all computing and why you should make it yours. After all, what’s not to like about a faster, more portable way to work?

About the author: James Daugherty is passionate about all things tech, including the latest and greatest laptop, tablets, and gadgets.