If you have an outdated laptop gathering dust at your place, you might consider getting rid of it. dispose of it But before you discard it, keep in mind: Your old laptop holds more potential than you might realize, and it's worthwhile to explore that possibility, even if you have a fresh laptop set up and operational .
There are numerous cool applications for an old laptop, ranging from useful tasks to entertaining activities. For enhancing productivity, consider repurposing it as a secondary display screen or a tool for focused writing without distractions. Alternatively, if you're seeking some entertainment, configuring it to run classic video games could be enjoyable. Instead of disposing of your old laptop and contributing to electronic waste, think about these options. e-waste issue, I would strongly suggest it. You'd end up saving some money. and Assisting the environment—that’s a double victory, isn’t it? Below are five innovative methods to breathe new life into your old laptop.
Set up Plex for streaming movies, TV series, and audio content.
You can repurpose your old laptop as a hub for storing all your movies, music, TV shows, and more. This approach works well if you're tired of transferring files across various gadgets. I suggest installing the free edition of Plex Install this application onto your old laptop to store and manage all your digital media files efficiently. The software lets you view your collection remotely via any device linked to your Wi-Fi network. Additionally, it automates the organization process, retrieves details such as synopsis and reviews, thus eliminating much of the manual effort required. Furthermore, using this tool means you won’t need to shell out money for various streaming gadgets, preventing unnecessary expenses that quickly escalate into hefty costs.
Ben Patterson/Foundry
Transform it into a focus-enhancing writing tool
If boosting your productivity is what you're aiming for, I'd suggest installing FocusWriter On your outdated laptop, this is a straightforward, light-weight word processing software where your menus and toolbars stay out of sight until you're prepared to utilize them once more. The application comes packed with various neat functions such as typewriter sounds, daily writing targets, time-limited typing periods, among others. Best part? You can access it without any cost and it supports Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
Get a light operating system for simple activities.
Setting up a light operating system such as Ubuntu or Puppy Linux It can revitalize your device. This option does not require much energy to operate and works well for everyday activities such as browsing social media, composing documents, etc. Besides being a fantastic method to prolong the lifespan of your outdated laptop, this approach helps you save cash you might have otherwise used to purchase a new one. Chromebook Or a similar device that’s intended for everyday use.
If you're opting for the Ubuntu route, ensure you have at least 4GB of RAM and a dual-core processor to guarantee optimal performance. Alternatively, you might consider using Ubuntu's lighter edition. Lubuntu , which operates with as little as 512MB-1GB of RAM.
Lubuntu
Utilize it as an additional display.
I really enjoy dual monitor setups It assists me in boosting my productivity at work and comes in handy when I'm gaming and want to check the related Wiki page without having to minimize or pause the current window. Should you like the concept of repurposing an older laptop as a secondary display, there are several approaches to achieve this. Just ensure that both gadgets are operating on either Windows 10 or 11; otherwise, this solution will not function properly.
If you have a Windows 10 or 11 computer, you can establish a wireless connection to another Windows-based PC (such as your previous laptop) using this method. Wireless Display The initial step requires setting up the Wireless Display function on your previous laptop. To accomplish this, proceed to the next instructions provided. Settings > System > Connect to This Device for Projection Then change "Some Windows and Android devices can project to this PC" to "Available Everywhere." Afterward, select "First Time Only," and subsequently launch the Connect application.
On the computer you're sharing the screen from, press Win+P , choose Extend, then click "Connect to a Wireless Display." From the list of available devices, pick your old laptop, and ta-da! It’s now converted into an additional monitor for you to use.
If the native Wireless Display function isn't functioning for whatever reason, you can alternatively utilize Spacedesk A third-party application that enables you to transform an additional device into a supplementary screen. After installing Spacedesk on your primary computer and your older laptop, ensure both gadgets are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Next, launch the Spacedesk app on your former laptop and link it with your principal PC. And that covers everything!
Enjoy your beloved classic video games
Occasionally, you might feel like revisiting your childhood by playing your beloved NES games. Luckily, you can achieve this on an older laptop. Simply install an emulator, software that replicates a gaming console, onto your laptop. In my opinion, I would suggest setting up RetroArch The user interface is intuitive and simplifies navigation. Additionally, it consolidates various gaming systems into a single application, eliminating the need to install individual emulator programs for different consoles. Furthermore, this platform offers numerous beloved retro titles such as The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past , Super Metroid , Final Fantasy VII , Spyro the Dragon , and more.
For optimal gameplay enjoyment, consider utilizing either a USB or Bluetooth controller along with an HDMI cable connected to a television screen.
RetroArch
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