Well, let's see.... Currently, I have physical access to two computers. One is at work. It's free, but not mine. It's also limited by a corporate firewall. However, I am able to do the most important computer-related tasks there, such as:
* Check my emails (my primary form of communication now).
* Come to this forum and the blogs.
* Verify my banking transactions online (very important).
* Pay almost all of my bills online (very important).
Then there's my home computer. It's an old laptop, but I can currently do all of the above, and:
* Visit sites for the purpose of entertainment such as digg.com.
* Work on my online guitar lessons.
* Listen to my music.
* Work on websites.
Based on the above information, I have concluded that I most definitely need and benefit from a computer (with internet access).
However, since most of my computer needs are already satisfied by the work computer, my home computer is largely relegated to a role of convenience and as a "cheap" form of entertainment.
Therefore, what I am really looking for in my downtime isn't a computer per se, but cheap entertainment. So, it doesn't technically have to be a computer. That and computers in general are a fairly expensive proposition.
That's why, when my current home computer dies, I have no plans to buy a new one. As much as I hate to say it-- because I really do love computers in general-- it just doesn't make any sense for me to get another one.
But that's just speaking for myself, of course.