August 11, 2003

Do I update my PC or purchase a new computer?  This is a question I get quite often. The following is my opinion on the subject of weighing your options in this matter.

I don't recommend anyone start spending money upgrading a computer.  The main reason, price.  Computers have continued to decrease in price since 1994 and what you get, in return for your investment, continues to increase.

Just think back to when you purchased your last computer.  Look at the price of that computer, then look at the prices of the computers today and compare the specifications.  Computers continue to give you more for less money as time goes on.  This may be starting to level off, if you have been watching the prices lately.

Why do I suggest purchasing rather than upgrading?  The answer is a little complex.  As you continue to upgrade, the performance does not match that of a new computer.  When the components are put together as a system and the speed of the individual components is compatible with the rest of the system, performance increases.  It's kind of like putting an eight cylinder engine in a six cylinder car.  Even though the car is faster, it still isn't as fast as the factory built eight cylinder car.  The next thing you know, the transmission gives out, since it wasn't designed for the eight cylinder engine.  Now you replace the transmission, and next, the rear end gives out.  Get the idea?

Even though the individual components might seem rather inexpensive, they will not work as well with the older systems.  You definitely don't want to start upgrading the operating system.  Drivers and compatibility issues abound and much of the new hardware will not work or doesn't have any drivers available for the older operating systems, such as Windows 98.  If you only need more disk space, or a little more memory, then by all means, do the upgrade.  If you're looking for better performance and compatibility, get a new computer.  In the long run, it'll cost less.

Click here for a discussion on what to consider when making a new purchase.

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