This article explores the question of whether we've reached a point of diminishing returns in computing power. It notes historical mispredictions about computer demand and highlights the rapid increase in processing capabilities, comparing modern smartphones to 1980s supercomputers. The author discusses how software engineers will always utilize available resources and questions if the continued pursuit of ever-increasing compute power is truly beneficial. It suggests that for many personal projects, existing hardware is more than sufficient, and that the "enough" threshold is highly dependent on individual needs and tasks.
An analysis estimating the total computing power of the world in 1970 and calculating its equivalent cost today based on DigitalOcean CPU rental prices. It uses data from a scientific paper and extrapolates trends to arrive at the conclusion that the computing power of 1970 would cost approximately £13/month to rent today.
