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Started by snazzyconnor | | 2 answers
How long do components last?
Not looking for definitive answer as that would be near impossible, more of an approximate guide, but how long do each of the components (cpu, gpu, motherboard etc) roughly last for before significant performance losses doing the same task? for example my old laptop lasted about 3 years before I got loads of errors trying to open certain applications and the boot time has gone from about 20 seconds to 1.5 minutes (same start up programs), using a desktop now so components are meant to last a lot longer aren't they?
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September 29, 2014 2:10:33 PM

As time pases computers get junk system files, unneeded registry keys, defragmented hard drives, pieces of uninstalled/upgraded programs, and other issues that become problematic if regular maintenence is not performed.

Except for being a little harder on the hard drive, these issues dont do anything to hurt component life.

The most likely parts to die are the hard drive and the power supply after 3-5 years, on average I would give these parts (assuming average build quality) about 60% failure rate after 3-5 years.
Memory and GPU would have a 20-25ish percent rate at 5 yeras, and motherboard/cpu to be single digits (except for budget oem and other cheap motherboards)
September 29, 2014 1:43:01 PM

The long boot up time results generally from bloated OS and fragged storage

Components can last from 2 weeks to ten years. I have an old DOS Wang APC that still runs ... from like 1986

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