Meet Paperspace: a full computer in the cloud

If you're tired of your desktop computer, you might like Paperspace - it's literally a PC you access entirely via the cloud.

Rather than have a full, bullky PC, instead you get a small connecting device that gives you access to cloud-based processing and storage for a monthly fee.

"The difference between Paperspace and a regular computer is that a regular comptuer is a clunky piece of hardware, and a Paperspace computer lives in the cloud," the company says in a video on its site. "It's sort of like cloud storage, but it's not just your files, it's your whole computer."

To use it, you'll need the "paperweight", which is a small, thin-client style device that comes with HDMI and USB ports, so you can hook it up to your monitor and other peripherals.

Paperspace can also be accessed via any modern web browser even without your 'paperweight', so you can get to your computer wherever you are.

Because it's cloud-based, you'll need a robust enough web-connection. Paperweight recommends at least 15Mbits/sec broadband with less than 60ms of latency.

Pointing out that "it's literally part of a supercomputer", Paperspace said its system can run the most demanding applications, including 3D CAD and video editing, though for that you'll need to shell out for the Professional grade, rather than the standard Basic tier, which is targeted at basic computing tasks, such as checking email or Office.

In terms of security, the data is all sent via an encrypted feed. For business users, there's Paperspace for Teams, which includes a management console, collaboration tools such as screen sharing, and tech support.

Paperspace will start shipping in September, with pre-orders being taken now, so far in the US only.

Each "paperweight" will cost $58 including shipping. The Basic service will cost £7 a month, while the Professional prices haven't been revealed yet.