Big hardware is good. So is the right kind of software. Some programs require more computing power than others. In order to figure out how powerful a computer you need, therefore, you must first determine which programs you are likely to run. Go to your local computer store, and look at the software that's available.
Most programs spell out their minimum hardware requirements right on the box.
You pay a high premium just to get the newest model. As soon as you drive the car out of the showroom, it becomes a used car, and its value goes down several thousand dollars. A powerful computer is desirable, yes, but it won't keep you from the need to upgrade. Even the finest generation of computer technology lasts less than a year without modifications. A 133MHz Pentium system may be only 50 percent faster than a 75 MHz Pentium system.