The 500 MHz AMD that some friends of mine helped me build 8 years ago isn't quite cutting it anymore, so I've decided it's time for a new computer. I'm leaning toward laptops, but might go for another desktop if the cost/benefit analysis works out that way.

I'd like to buy something that will continue to work acceptably well for the longest possible time, without spending too much money. Any computer-savvy users want to offer their advice as to what to buy?

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Whoever said there's nothing more expensive than a cheap Mercedes never had a cheap Jaguar.

83 300D Turbo with manual conversion, early W126 vented front rotors and H4 headlights 401,xxx miles
08 Suzuki GSX-R600 M4 Slip-on 26,xxx miles
88 Jaguar XJS V12 94,xxx miles. Work in progress.
99 Mazda Miata 183,xxx miles.