undefined | Better HN

0 pointsLeifCarrotson6y ago0 comments

> My company has already shelled out a couple grands for this machine, suggesting to use a Bluetooth keyboard is offensive given the price point of this laptop and how cumbersome and uncomfortable using an external keyboard on a laptop is.

I'd honestly describe using the built-in keyboard (and especially trackpad) on most laptops as cumbersome and uncomfortable.

Unless you really need to have a mobile workstation - running between meetings, conference rooms, into lots of labs/industrial environments where you can't bring a laptop cart with monitor/keyboard...why would you not dock the machine?

Even if you prefer the feel of the keyboard or trackpad, wouldn't you want the ergonomics to be better than a laptop if you're working on it all day? A pair or trio of 20+ inch displays mounted just below eye height at about reach distance, ergonomic keyboard with elbows at about 90 degrees, and full size mouse will always be a better workstation than the nicest laptop keyboard, trackpad, and 15" display hinged to said keyboard.

0 comments

1 comments · 1 top-level

Kipters6y ago

> I'd honestly describe using the built-in keyboard (and especially trackpad) on most laptops as cumbersome and uncomfortable.

I somewhat agree given the topic, but I think carrying, having to charge and balancing a Bluetooth keyboard while you're using a laptop as a laptop (on your lap instead of on a desk) is a tad worse

> Unless you really need to have a mobile workstation - running between meetings, conference rooms, into lots of labs/industrial environments where you can't bring a laptop cart with monitor/keyboard...why would you not dock the machine?

> Even if you prefer the feel of the keyboard or trackpad, wouldn't you want the ergonomics to be better than a laptop if you're working on it all day? A pair or trio of 20+ inch displays mounted just below eye height at about reach distance, ergonomic keyboard with elbows at about 90 degrees, and full size mouse will always be a better workstation than the nicest laptop keyboard, trackpad, and 15" display hinged to said keyboard.

On my desk(s) the laptop is usually docked and connected to external monitors and an external (and ergonomic) keyboard and mouse kit, but I happen to work from trains, planes, airports, coworkings or from the couch sometimes. I also like the ability to just close the lid and quickly move somewhere else if needed, having to use a Bluetooth keyboard for this case is awkward to say the least. At this point, why get a laptop at all?

(disclaimer: I'm 100% pro desktop PCs)

j / k navigate · click thread line to collapse