The End of Laptop Full-Screen LCD's
Laptops get redesigned often. Manufactures such as Dell, Apple, HP, IBM, etc. will change more than just the hard drive and processor; they will even change the exterior color of their laptops. Some changes are specific for one company whereas others are seen throughout the industry.
A current trend seen throughout the laptop industry is the end of full-screen LCDs on laptops. Full screens still exist, but they are getting harder to come by. Many arguments exist for why this move toward wide screens is better; however, some consumers argue that you get less for your money.
Pro Wide Screens:
Those who are pro wide-screens say that a wider screen makes it easier to multitask. Having a wide-screen makes it easier to view two programs side by side versus having to switch between screens. Saving minutes off a task means better productivity and more time left to move onto other things.
If you're into watching movies on your laptop, some argue your DVD viewing experience can be enhanced by having a wide screen. It is like having a wide screen television on your laptop. In addition, with LCD screens getting brighter, crisper, and reducing glare, your DVD will look just as good as it would on your TV.
Gamers often site the wide screen as better because it enhances the gaming experience. Their view is similar to an avid movie watcher preferring a wide screen over a full screen.
Against Wide Screens:
Some consumers argue that laptop companies are trying to save money by producing wide screens. Full screens are bigger and take up more space on laptops. By making wide screens they are not only saving money, they are also able to make laptops smaller.
Those against the wide screen trend argue that yes, you can view two programs side-by-side, but the time you save in having the two applications open you lose more time in having to do more scrolling. Programmers in particular argue this point.
Not only do you lose time scrolling, but you also get less LCD real estate. A 15" LCD screen is not always a 15" LCD. You get more surface area on a full screen as opposed to a wide screen.
Whether you're for or against this new trend is a matter of preference. The bigger question is will laptop manufacturers stop making full screens? In recent news Toshiba has stopped production of their full screen laptops. Other companies have reduced the production of their full screen lines as well. With other companies following Toshiba's example it seems like it will be only a matter of time before the full screen becomes obsolete.
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