If you switch, switch to one of these. They will look perfect on your desk.
IBM 5100 :
A versatile machine. Considered the first portable computer (a “laptop” in the true meaning of the term), it only weighs 55 Pounds. Extra large screen for this time. A must have for true geeks.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/ibm-5100.jpg)
Sol 20 (Processor Technology) :
“THE Terminal Computer” (it’s written on it). In advance of its time, you could already plug in your TV to turn it into a Multimedia Experience. A definitive contribution to Computer design.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/sol-20.jpg)
Rockwell AIM 65
Clearly a breakthrough model : minimalist design, maxi functionalities (check out the embedded printer).
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/rockwellaim-65.jpg)
Apple II.
This reminds me of the first nerds at school (early 80’s). They all knew Apple II was the best. They probably made a career.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/apple2.jpg)
Commodore PET (Personal Electronic Transactor) :
Some believe this “gizmo” is the ancestor of the Tamagochi..
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/commodore-pet.jpg)
Radio Shack TRS-80 Model I :
Designed for hardcore gamers. Comes with wireless tape recorder.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/radioshack.jpg)
Heathkit H8 (1977) :
A no-nonsense home computer. No compromise on performance. Top-class ergonomics (for 1977).
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/heathkit.jpg)
Heathkit H89 :
All in one. A revolution in miniaturization. Probably inspired by France’s Minitel.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/heathkit-h89.jpg)
Atari 400 (1978) :
Before being a T-shirt brand, they were in computers.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/atari.jpg)
Texas Instrument TI-99/4:
If you don’t like the desktop background, that’s too bad for you.
![Old Computers [Pictures] Old Computers [Pictures]](http://www.365questions.org/2007/05/05/why-buy-a-new-computer/365questions.org%20%BB%20Blog%20Archive%20%BB%20Why%20buy%20a%20new%20computer_fichiers/texasinstrument.jpg)
For real information about these computers, check out Tech Republic : Dinosaur Sightings, Computers from the 1970s.