The next big question when buying a PC, say the Duo, is where you'll be using your machine. For most folks, that sort of talk brings to mind the eternal laptop-versus-desktop conundrum, and Steve weighs in for computing with a comfortable desktop in a comfortable office--partly because of a profound fondness for his "personal Captain Kirk cockpit," but in the main because your money buys more when you purchase a desktop. In fact, the fastest, most powerful computers are always desktop units.
Angela, however, lives not on the Starship Enterprise but in an apartment and several nearby coffeehouses. She prefers her notebook computer, since it means that her office is wherever she is. And, notes Angela, her notebook is her only machine; Steve may trumpet the benefits of desktops, but he in fact has three computers--including one subnotebook, which he uses for travel.
But, Steve retorts, there's a difference between a so-called desktop replacement notebook and a machine that's meant for travel. Many desktop replacement models are really big and heavy and have really lousy battery life. Angela agrees--her IBM's no featherweight, though its battery life is above reproach--but she points out that that doesn't matter when the unit's in use mainly in locations with outlets and sturdy tables. If, however, you're someone who gets a lot of work done on the road, battery life and perhaps size and weight will mean a lot to you.
Of course, says Steve, you can split the difference--get a smaller, lighter, more travel-worthy laptop and hook it into a docking station that connects to a bigger monitor, a full-sized keyboard, and a mouse. Or you can simply buy and connect those things directly--a little ungainly and perhaps a little less portable, but still nicely functional for the right person.
