less use = longer hardware life
anyways The i7-2600k Sandy Bridge is $320, but its processing power is equivalent/similar to other processors priced at $1000+
and includes an integrated GPU
If a CPU dies and you've been using it responsibly (not overclocking it to the point where lifespan is noticeably impacted), it's time to buy a new one anyway. Apparently the lifespan of a CPU, even when used 24/7, tends to exceed 10 years. Hopefully no one is still using Windows 98.
At the moment, there's a chance things are priced to where it's a much better deal, but I can't see that lasting. Companies have to price things competitively or their money will go down the drain. That's not to say that it's by any means a bad deal, or will become a bad deal. Just that it probably won't remain superior in every way at the same price as other prices will drop.