Desktop or Cloud Computing: Advice needed

Question

[akh22]

I am considering purchasing 2013 MacPro ($1999) and upgrade to 12core ($550) and 128GB ($1128) from eBay. I ran command line (mostly, R and Python) and some GUI bioinformatics tools. I have a maxed out MacMini (a server version) at work and it struggles with some heavy duty number quenching and analysis. Alternative is to use the cloud computing, using Docker/Rstudio running on Digital Ocean. Prices changes depleting on a DO droplet configuration. I am looking at 3 virtual CPU ($15/month) or 4vCPU with less memory ($40/month). I also have an access to my school’s cluster but it is almost always back logged. Right at the moment , I am leaning toward the cloud option but I don’t quite have an experienced with DO cloud systems. I’d appreciate any pointers and suggestions.

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

[Shicheng Guo]

Cloud computing is not actually you need. Actually, you need an account in TACC, SDSC or UW-Madison CHTC condor. Don't hope you can do something with local computer in the big data time. Azure or AWS is a little expensive to use, especially you are quite familiar with it and know how to save money with the best efficient way.