What is Commodity Hardware?

Commodity hardware, in an IT context, is a device or device component that is relatively inexpensive, widely available and more or less interchangeable with other hardware of its type. To be interchangeable, commodity hardware is usually broadly compatible and can function on a plug and play basis with other commodity hardware products. In this context, a commodity item is a low-end but functional product without distinctive features. A commodity computer, for example, is a standard-issue PC that has no outstanding features and is widely available for purchase.