I know I'm frugal but

[shootingstar]

I just don't like to use them, and the only way I could make it comfortable for me to use was to turn it into a pseudo desktop - connect it to an external keyboard and monitor.

This is how things are at work ..and I'm glad!! I've been offered a laptop as my primary machine at work by several employers in the past, but turned it down because of the ergonomics issue. This latest employer automatically gave it to me as a work computer but then attached 2 screen monitors plus a keyboard. Several other employees automatically have this set-up, in our group.

I do want to observe the ergonomics issue for myself when working at any computer for more than 2 consecutive hours for myself. Even at home.

(I also had to supervise people in past jobs where computer ergonomics became an issue with carpal.)


As for the cost of computer....it replaces a tv (and the cable cost) for me. That's how I look at the "investment".

[OakLeaf]

When all that's left of the original computer is the tower frame, and you've had to replace everything else just to be able to install or run modern software and peripherals, does it really count as the "same" computer?



PS - I know it's not necessarily the safest thing from an EMF standpoint, but the ergonomics of a laptop are perfect for me when it's actually in my lap. One of these both allows air to circulate and cool the battery, and slightly elevates the rear of the computer.

[jessmarimba]

My first macbook is going on 6 years old this year, but it needs some work and I'm currently too lazy to do it.

Work gives us laptops, with a second monitor, a docking station, keyboard, and mouse. So I get the full setup at the office - but I need to be able to take it with me when I'm on the road. I've asked them several times, why do we have the heaviest laptops in the world if we have them for portability? My back prefers lugging the macbook around, by far. If they really wanted portability, we could have full desktops at work and a netbook/tablet/small thing to take on the road with us.