The State of Computer Shops: Is Everyone Just Converting to Home Setups?

Oh, computer shops. The beating heart of gaming and Internet culture in the Philippines. They served as hubs for students and young professionals alike, all immersed in their favorite games. It's the zone where you can crisply hear the greatest trash talk you'll ever encounter. 

They were iconic. But these once-thriving hubs are now becoming harder to find, which begs the question, “What happened?” 

In the pre-smartphone and early broadband eras, computer shops were a necessity. Many households didn’t have stable internet or PC access, so computer shops bridged that gap, offering a station to work or play. Shops were not just services but social spaces where gaming clans could meet in person. 

From ZDF Official GIPHY

Fast-forward to today, and the scene has changed drastically. Better internet access in homes has played a huge role in the decline. You can see promos left and right from internet service providers offering fiber-optic connections at affordable prices. Gaming hardware has also become more accessible. With the rise of affordable gaming laptops, secondhand consoles, and even budget smartphones capable of running competitive games, almost everyone has their own special device. 

There is no place like home 

From WBGames Official GIPHY

What once made computer shops special—shared space, high-speed access, and cutting-edge rigs—can now be replicated at home. Many gamers now invest in their setups, where they can comfortably play, customize their experience, and avoid hourly rental fees. For professionals, remote work incentivizes the need for quality home equipment like the Xiaomi Monitor A24I, further reducing the demand for computer shops. 

So, is there still a place for computer shops? 

While their numbers are dwindling, computer shops haven’t vanished completely. They remain essential hubs in rural areas where internet access remains limited. And for gamers who crave a competitive social atmosphere—LAN tournaments, team-building sessions, or just hanging out with friends—they provide a nostalgia-laden experience that home setups can’t replicate.

The state of computer shops may not be what it once was, but they’re not entirely gone. Instead, they’ve evolved into a place that provides further convenience and a proper attitude for those who seek them.