Twenty years ago when the original desktop computers were released, aesthetics was not an issue. The monitors were minuscule compared to today's as well as only being able to display one color, green. Old desktops all came in the same khaki tone that after a few years in the sun turned into a heap of mustard colored plastic. During these times you could not get a desktop with a tower case, instead your monitor was placed high amongst the Gods on a desktop case that nowadays you could pack three or more computers inside.

Today, however, this is not the “case.” Desktop computers are becoming more and more personalized and outright pieces of art. The new fad with computers is sleek and serviceable; this is the design trend that a lot of companies are looking for. Many companies, like Dell, have looked to the success of Apple and their iMAC or G4 cube computers. Dell tried to release a jazzy desktop called the WebPC and quietly pulled the plug because of lackluster sales. Aesthetics are only half the point, because of their small size, companies like these PCs because they are cheaper to manufacture and ship. There is an evolution of the beige boxy look that dominated the PC industry for many years. Today’s consumers are appealed too more rounded features.

Many new cases now can open up like suitcases, another Apple innovation. This allows greater access to system components, none of which require tools to work on. Other great new ideas include cables with different colored tabs assuring that components are properly connected. We are currently seeing that most consumers aren’t as concerned about looks, but performance is key. People would rather buy as much as they can vs. buying something that is cool; people are more interested in value.

A problem is the things that make these systems sleek and beautiful--that is the LCD display--also make them more expensive and give you much less for your money. If you could spend $400 bucks and get a 19-inch monitor at a reasonable price from a pretty good company, $1,000 for a 15-inch (LCD) monitor doesn’t make a lot of sense.

A company that gives consumers the best of both worlds is Alienware. They allow you to have a computer built to your specifications with the latest technology available. You have a choice of 9 different colors in which your monitor, case, and even keyboard can all be color coordinated. Their motto is “Build it as if it were your own” and on there front-page they state, “looks are nice… but performance is everything.” Building on their famous Koolmaxx video cooling system, they have added a custom grill piece (an alien head) that tops off one amazingly beautiful machine.

Desktop computers are quite different than there predecessors meeting the demands of the craziest imaginations.