CCarter, you just keep using the word "cheap" for the sake of arguing I guess. I'm done. Thanks for your input though.
BCG jesus christ you're impatient. Why do you have to be so bitter all the time anyways? I have both a laptop and a desktop. I need both. End of story.
Clarification: I think Cccarter talks about Cheap as in 'lower end computers with high specs and low quality components'. You can get an older high end laptop with lower specs at the same price as a newer 'economy' laptop with higher specs but lower quality components. The older one with lower specs but high end components might seem 'expensive' next to the newer low specs economy model since they are in the same price range, but due to component quality, might last longer. Basically, a 2010 Corolla will last you longer than a chinese made 2014 equivalent, even if the Chinese equivalent will have better specs (like leather seats, big rims, bigger motor, etc)
Still, IMHO, the life expectancy of the laptop is more dependent on how you treat and maintain your equipment plus just plain dumb luck than anything.
Personally, I've had 2 laptops. Both were 'cheap'. One was a low end one that lasted 4 years and I gave it to my GF who has now had it for over 3 years. It overheats now-a-days every now and then, but still good enough for basic use from bed. My second laptop I got cheap and it is still going strong after almost 4 years. I don't really need to replace it, since I don't do much work on it, and I have an ipad+iphone.
Desktops I've had several. In general, I replace desktops for newer specs before the equipment dies. Desktops I spend more on, but nothing extravagant, since I don't need that much computing power on my desktop.
As a note, I will say many people over focus on desktop hardware specs, and not enough on components that have more effect on everyday use like a quality mouse, keyboard, headset, monitors, chair and desk.
