There are 3 considerations to deciding whether to upgrade your old computer or buy a new one: cost, longevity, and performance.
Cost
Cost will vary depending on who you are talking to. If you are talking to a sales person at a store they will (90% of the time) attempt to sell you something new. They will tell you buying the most high-tech item out will save you in the long run because it will last longer and outperform your current system. The problem is they are completely biased and they profit from your over-spending.
The only time to buy something brand new, state-of-the-art is when it’s a unique system that meets your needs perfectly. Otherwise, it is better to buy systems that are several months older. This is an image that displays the drop in cost over time according to my experience and observations:
Longevity
Its not wise to upgrade a system that will soon be obsolete. The obsolete age of a computer can vary significantly, and really boils down to functionality. This is why its good to have a professional or a techy friend analyze your systems and help you meet your needs.
Performance
Every company has specific needs. I like to relate this to the auto industry. Let’s say you think you need a 300 horsepower truck to haul your boat through the mountains. A new car salesperson will try to convince you that you need the more expensive 400 horsepower truck. A used car salesperson down the street who only has a 250 horsepower truck is going to try to convince you that all you need is 250 horsepower. If you’re unsure what your needs are, it’s great to have an unbiased third party like DFW IT to help you.
It also helps to have a vision of what your needs will be in the future. Even in the technical field, an ounce of preparation is worth a pound of repair.