The analysis is really simple actually, computer radios DO NOT match up with standard buddy boxes. They have to be matched with an identical computer radios, which most clubs are not going to supply.

Buy a four channel, spend the difference on fuel and learn to fly. Or buy a computer radio and hope that someone is willing to lend you their computer radio to use as a buddy box. In the latter case, I would not suggest that you hold your breath while you are waiting.

Still, people are stubborn and gadget happy, so I suspect that no matter how many TRULY experienced flyers and instructors say otherwise, the allure of the bells and whistles will continue to grab the beginner's credit card.