Tips for buying hardware?

[TheDead]

I am also a minimalist and would avoid duplicating devices when it comes to fulfilling similar functions.

You mean like this? :

... , but you may guzzle up more energy in day-to-day running costs than newer kit ...

I sometimes wonder if it's like washing a really dirty/greasy little plastic container before recycling.Is all the hot water/energy and soap needed balancing the trashing of the thing...