Thread: How much time should elapse between computer purchases?

How long should a person wait before purchasing a new computer?

I'm thinking of getting a new computer before I head to college, however the computer I'm using is only about three years old. Money isn't "tight" for me but my wallet isn't exactly burning a hole in my pocket either.

How much money should one be willing to spend on a computer if they need graphic cards that can "handle" things but don't necessarily need them to "exceed" requirements of most graphic utilities?

I suppose it is a silly question, if I want a new computer and can afford I suppose I should go for it, but also I hate spending money, so I don't like to do things unless I think it is important.

Also what if I need money for something actually important later X.X. I hate this concept, I know as soon as I waste the money either I, or someone else I care about, will need money.

It's better to upgrade in waves, like after 1 year get RAM, after 2 years get a new GPU, and after 3 years get new motherboard/CPU, then repeat.

Originally Posted by drewmandan

It's better to upgrade in waves, like after 1 year get RAM, after 2 years get a new GPU, and after 3 years get new motherboard/CPU, then repeat.

Thanks. I will keep that in mind.

Depends on how good your computer was when you bought it.

Low End PC - 2 years
Average PC - 3 years
High End PC / Mac - 4 years
Top of the Line PC / Mac Pro - 5 years

Does your computer get the job done as it is, without being excessively buggy or prone to crashing? If so, then I see no point in fixing something that isn't broken. To continually replace your machine based on some fixed time interval, with no thought toward whether or not you actually need to after that interval has elapsed, is just silly.

Regarding your graphics card, if that is primarily what you are interesting in improving then just replace the graphics card.

Save the bulk of that money for college life. I don't think anybody appreciably foresees how costly it can be.

Originally Posted by DuB

I don't think anybody appreciably foresees how costly it can be.

Yeah, beer gets expensive

Hehe... no comment.

If you computer does what it needs to without being crazy slow or virus raped or whatever, then why get a new one?

You will need every drop of money for college. My siblings who are in college now are always complaining to me about the money they (don't) have.

Originally Posted by DuB

Does your computer get the job done as it is, without being excessively buggy or prone to crashing? If so, then I see no point in fixing something that isn't broken. To continually replace your machine based on some fixed time interval, with no thought toward whether or not you actually need to after that interval has elapsed, is just silly.

It really depends on what you mean by "get the job done."

It gets school work done, but the problem is, for the moment, I plan on doing something in the video game industry. So, the thing is I have to have experience playing video games so that I can know what works and what doesn't. I need a computer with good graphic capabilities to do this, and unfortunately I have a crappy laptop and it isn't the type of laptop that allows you to upgrade easily because it is an integrated chipset.

If I get anything I plan on getting a desktop, but the problem then becomes the poor portability of most desktops...although I suppose since the new type of computer monitors have came out it is easier to transport.

Laptops aren't very portable either, unless you have a really small one. If you try to carry a large laptop around all day, you will break your back. So you might as well get the desktop and save a third of the price.

Originally Posted by drewmandan

Laptops aren't very portable either, unless you have a really small one. If you try to carry a large laptop around all day, you will break your back. So you might as well get the desktop and save a third of the price.

I fly a lot, desktops unfortunately aren't as easy to take around with you when flying. Right now I have some problems with my charger which makes it hard to use which is the main reason I'm even thinking about getting a new computer.

But I figure as long as I decide to leave my desktop in one State I shouldn't have to worry about flight that much.

Also, if you have a laptop already and can afford a new computer without trading yours in, just get a desktop and keep the laptop for travel/goofing off in class.