I don’t know about you, but I sure have a hard time with the concept of “less is more” sometimes, especially when it comes to new technology.  I used to be a gamer, and at one point lived with two roommates – our living room was bare but for the five computers propped up on conference tables, and two of them were mine.  Back then, I bought the best computer I could afford, and I used it too.  Now, my tastes have changed and I no longer need a high-end machine, but that doesn’t stop me from thinking I can’t live without one.

When it is time to go shopping for a new computer, it helps to have a goal in mind.  If you need a machine to surf the web and handle media like videos and photos, it makes no sense to spend thousands on a machine that is capable of running today’s mega games.  If you really sit down and think about your computer needs, you may find that a mid-range computer will handle everything you need it to, so why get more than you will use?

In some cases, you may not need a computer at all.  For email, general web browsing and media management, a tablet might work, or an Internet-connected TV, both of which can provide those things without the complication of a computer setup.

Being realistic about your needs can save you hundreds of dollars on a new computer purchase, allowing you to put that money toward other things you want or need.