In the evolving world of enterprise computing, a seismic shift is underway as businesses reassess the tools that power their workforces. Recent analysis suggests that traditional laptops, long the staple of corporate mobility, may soon give way to cloud-based alternatives. According to a report from TechRadar, Desktop as a Service (DaaS) solutions are emerging as not just viable but often superior options in terms of cost and operational simplicity.

Gartner, the influential research firm cited in the TechRadar piece, predicts that by 2027, DaaS will be cost-effective for approximately 95% of employees, a dramatic leap from just 40% in 2019. This projection underscores a broader trend where hosted virtual desktops are poised to become the primary workspace for one in five workers, doubling the 10% figure from six years prior.

The Cost Calculus Shifts: Why DaaS is Gaining Ground in Boardrooms

For now, many organizations deploy DaaS selectively, often to bolster security for remote workers amid hybrid models. But the TechRadar report highlights how escalating emphases on financial efficiency, streamlined operations, and environmental sustainability are accelerating adoption. Enterprises grappling with hardware refresh cycles and maintenance burdens find DaaS appealing because it offloads these responsibilities to cloud providers, potentially slashing total cost of ownership.

Even when factoring in the expense of thin clients—those lightweight devices used to access virtual desktops—Gartner’s data, as detailed in TechRadar, shows DaaS frequently undercuts the long-term costs of on-premises laptops. This includes savings on energy consumption and e-waste reduction, aligning with corporate sustainability goals that are increasingly non-negotiable.

Operational Efficiencies and Security Imperatives Driving the Transition

Industry insiders note that DaaS simplifies IT management by centralizing updates, patches, and data storage in the cloud, reducing the risks associated with distributed devices. The TechRadar article points to real-world scenarios where companies use DaaS to secure sensitive operations, such as in finance or healthcare, where data breaches from lost or stolen laptops can be catastrophic.

Moreover, as artificial intelligence integrates deeper into workflows, DaaS platforms can scale computing power on demand without requiring hardware upgrades. This flexibility is particularly valuable for knowledge workers who need robust processing for tasks like data analysis or creative software, without the upfront capital outlay for high-end machines.

Challenges Ahead: Adoption Barriers and Market Realities

Yet, the path to widespread DaaS isn’t without hurdles. TechRadar’s coverage acknowledges that initial setup costs and dependency on reliable internet can deter some firms, especially in regions with inconsistent connectivity. Gartner forecasts also warn that while human usage may double, the rise of AI agents could further strain cloud resources, potentially inflating prices if demand surges unchecked.

Competitive pressures are intensifying, with providers like those reviewed in Gartner’s Peer Insights—accessible via Gartner—vying to offer tailored solutions. For executives, the decision boils down to balancing short-term disruptions against long-term gains in agility and cost control.

Looking to 2027: Strategic Implications for Enterprise IT Leaders

As 2025 unfolds, the TechRadar report serves as a clarion call for IT leaders to evaluate DaaS not as a niche tool but as a core strategy. Companies that pivot early could gain edges in talent retention, drawing remote workers who value seamless access over device ownership. Conversely, laggards risk inflated expenses as laptop prices climb amid supply chain volatilities.

Ultimately, this shift signals the maturation of cloud computing, where the “end of laptops” isn’t hyperbole but a pragmatic evolution. By embracing DaaS, businesses can foster more resilient, efficient operations, positioning themselves for a future where work is defined less by hardware and more by ubiquitous, secure connectivity.