How long does a typical laptop last?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the longevity of laptops, particularly older models, and factors influencing their continued usability. Participants share personal experiences and considerations regarding whether to keep or sell older laptops based on their functionality and user needs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the longevity of a 2002 laptop and whether it is worth keeping or reselling.
  • Another participant suggests that the value of computers decreases quickly, advising that only used computers should be kept.
  • A participant shares their experience with a 1997 Compaq laptop, stating it lasted until recently due to limited usage for basic applications.
  • Humor is introduced by a participant who comments on estimating the time a laptop lasts based on physical accidents, while also noting that usability depends on the required programs and connectivity.
  • Another participant mentions their IBM laptop with a Pentium 166MHz CPU, which still functions for basic tasks but lacks modern connectivity options.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the longevity of laptops, with no consensus on a specific timeframe or conditions for keeping older models. The discussion includes both personal anecdotes and differing views on usability and value.

Contextual Notes

Participants' claims depend on individual usage scenarios, hardware specifications, and personal definitions of usability, which are not universally applicable.

GCT
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I've recently purchased a laptop from ebay, it's in pretty good condition and runs great. However, I think that it's 2002 model and was wondering on how long will it continue to function without giving me any problems? Should I try to resell it, or is it worth the keep?
 
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Computers are like cars in that they lose value relatively quickly. You really should only have computers that you use.

So, if you're using it keep it. If you don't use it sell it.
 
Depends on what you use the m for. I had a Compaq laptop from 1997 that I used until last year. I only did MS word and Excel on it though. It used to be connected to the internet at 32,000 (whah!) but not since 2000.
 
How long will it last? From the time it slips off the table to the time it hits the floor...(this being a physics forum, all you need to tell us is the height of the table for a fairly accurate estimate of how long that would be.) :-p Oh, plus any time before it falls. :biggrin:

Seriously, as long as they run the programs you need at a speed you can stand and have all the connectivity you require. I still have a IBM with a Pentium 166Mhz CPU, it still works great for word processing and some other productivity programs, but it does not have a USB port and the card port USB doesn't work with it, so it lacks some of the connectivity that I need.
 

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