Computer Conundrum

I have decided it is time to improve my computer situation. My computer still functions, albeit slowly, and is in decent enough shape. So why would I need to improve? Mainly because my computer is really slow. I could purchase some RAM and improve on the 1GB that I have in there now. (1GB of RAM was super amazing five years ago and was only found in higher end computers. Now, not so much.) That would be an easy and fairly cheap option. Assuming I did find the right RAM to place in there and am satisfied with my current set-up. Problem is I know that is just a slight improvement to my current set-up. All for the low price of $135.

I could go brand new and purchase something that completely blows my current set-up out of the water, and for under $700. That would leave me with something that would be faster than the new RAM would allow for a pretty reasonable price. Not to mention I would have an up-to-date system that suited the needs of what I would like far better than my current computer.

As a quick aside, I purchased my current computer in a hurry when I busted the power supply and replacement power supply to my old computer. It was time for an upgrade then too. Problem was I wanted computer right then and there and the selection was pitiful. I purchased a Media Center computer even when I have no need for one, only because it was the best, and really only, option available.

If I do decide to go new, I have two options. I could purchase the ever reliable and upgradeable desktop or I could purchase the more portable laptop. I have a general disdain for laptops. Mostly stemming from large hands and a small keyboard. What I would do with the laptop is have it hooked up to as a desktop while at home and just take the laptop when I go on trips. This idea has me intrigued as I do travel fairly often. If I am asked to transfer it is easier for me to take the laptop on my person and have everything else moved via the company. I would always have access to internet and stay connected. Sure I would have to deal with the annoyance of a small keyboard, but I think it might be worth the trouble.

I still am not sold on the laptop idea. The One owns a laptop that we would take with us if we move. It is far easier and cheaper to upgrade a desktop. Currently the need for a laptop is just not there. It might be in the future, but currently it just does not seem warranted. A desktop is something that I am used to working with. I feel confident in my ability to go in and check missing parts, update and add parts, and do basic troubleshooting on a desktop. It would take some talking into before I would desire the use of my own laptop.

I do like the idea of have a fresh computer that suits me better, more so than the idea of just trying to juice up my current computer. Well, all except for the price. I tend to be a bit frugal when it comes to purchases not involving food or beverages. Even though I know that I would be getting a great deal on a machine I would be sure to get a good deal of use, I just have a hard time pulling the trigger. For one, I know that I could just add on to my current computer and just run this one until it craps out for a smaller price. Even if that smaller price comes at a much great cost of me not being completely satisfied with the results.

Now I have not fully made a decision as to whether or not I will even go through with any of the above ideas. (Again, I am frugal.) I will mull over the idea for a few days then more than likely put it to the side until a later date. For now I do have my eyes set on a couple of set-ups that I admire.

~Skate