Over the past three years alone, I have gone through roughly several dozen computers –although only two of them have been desktops. I have to admit that I have an addiction, and my constantly being connected to the internet feeds my problem. Craigslist is an amazingly useful tool, but it can also be abused.

Almost every job that I have had has been computer related. Even my university studies involved so much computer usage that ever since 1999, I have probably averaged more than six hours a day on a computer/PDA/phone. Like many people, I depend on my computer for virtually everything: entertainment, social interactions, study/research, and so forth. I use my computer to watch and store television shows, movies, and occasionally to stream music. For me not to operate a computer for anymore than two days straight is challenging, even if I were not in the blogging business. A computer, then, to me, is as crucial as a truck is to a trucker or a hammer is to a carpenter.

Due to the sheer number of choices, narrowing down what computer works best for each particular person is difficult. Luckily, I already know what I need: a Windows desktop is mandatory. I require the processing power, upgradability, and compatibility of a Windows tower PC, which I dedicate for Blu-Ray, 1080p, and gaming. A laptop is not absolutely necessary, but its flexibility increases my overall computing satisfaction. I love being able to write long papers in different settings and sitting/lying/lounging positions. Being planted on the same chair all day can break one’s spirit in the long run. Since my laptop is mainly for writing, e-mails, surfing, simple Photoshop editing, music, film (some 720p), the machine does not have to be a powerhouse. I even tried several netbooks and a first-generation MacBook Air, both of which were insufficient.

During the past three years, I have owned only two desktops but over twenty laptops (although not simultaneously). With desktops, there really is not much to choose from. Just pick a bearable looking case that has good cooling, the latest components that you can afford, and you are set for two years or more. The situation with laptops is entirely different because each machine offers a unique experience. For one thing, the keyboard, trackpad, casing, and display are permanent (and I have never been entirely impressed with any laptop’s LCD), and if something extra (such as a more powerful graphics card) is needed, there is no way of just upgrading the laptop (with a few exceptions). Also, the operating system can be any of the major three, whereas my desktop must be Windows. I have been a Mac OS X fanatic since 10.2 “Jaguar,” so I always choose a MacBook if possible.

If my dilemma were merely a matter of need, then I would not have a problem. Want is the underlying cause of all addictions. Moreover, I do not just want a laptop that works; I want one that pleases me in every way…and for a low price. This is why I invariably find myself checking Craigslist regularly for good deals. If I have a Dell Latitude, then I want a MacBook Pro. If I have a MacBook Pro, then I stumble across a cheaper PC laptop that appears promising. I use it for a few weeks and wish that its trackpad were anywhere near as precise and smooth as the glass Mac, and that it were operating OS X.

Now that I have established just how important and integral a computer is to my daily life, I want to confess that I am a computer-shopaholic. Generally, I despise shopping. Other than for a hat and a hockey jersey, I have not purchased any article of clothing in-store since 2000. Malls make me nauseous. Buying and selling locally can now be accomplished so easily and quickly that through Craigslist, I have the near perfect partner in crime. Some of my problems are exacerbated by my low budget, but even if I had copious funds, I would still be plagued by the same addiction. Instead of looking at $1,000 notebooks, I would simply be deciding among $2,000 models –and perhaps several laptops at the same time.

This year, I vow to save myself money, time, and my sanity by not continually shopping around for laptops. I am very content with my current 13″ MacBook Pro and should just live with it. Obviously, since I blog about technology, I cannot entirely avoid peeking at slick new notebooks, but I am resolved to keep what I have until at least the next calender year. I might need to upgrade my declining nVidia 8800GT and overclock my Intel Q6600, but my desktop is ready for what I demand of it too. My 32″ 1080p Sharp Aquos has aged gracefully. When I finally move up to something better, OLED just might be widely available by then.

I am convinced that everyone is addicted to something, so please join me in my resolution to overcome addiction and to choose contentment.