Buying what you can use for long time

Mom's Pies in Julian - all about quality

Usually you get what you pay for, unless you buy a "luxury" product, when sometimes you can get short changed. But you knew that before you bought in, right?

Let's look at my favorite things - computers and cameras.

I usually try to buy the most computer I can afford. Most of the time that is middle of the line with the best screen. I usually add more memory, and more storage (once RAM & HD prices reach my range). My old Fujitsu laptop had its memory quadrupled to 4GB from original 1GB, hard drive was increased from original 80GB to 200GB. The computer was useful till then the fan died (replaced once) and then battery failed. I felt I got my moneys worth with 5 years of service.

Cameras - I purchased Canon 5D when it just came out. I shot it for 3 years till mirror felt off. Canon fixed it, but my trust into the camera was shattered, and I bought 1Ds mark 3. 1Ds felt much more solid, and I never had any reliability issues with it. I still use it when I need a big camera, but the progress of technology made me start using a smaller camera (Ricoh GXR with M mount module). Lately, Ricoh electronic viewfinder broke, and I might be going back for something more sturdy, like my 1Ds. Yeah, it is heavy, but it is strong and reliable. That is worth its price in gold.

Conclusion - buy the best you can afford, and the products will serve you well. Buy something that is just "good enough" - and you will be buying again and again to replace a product that does not live up to your expectations.