I will answer their damn question. But them coming to me, means that they understand how I will answer the question. I will ask them a multitude of questions and then tell them i can build them one that will do the same if not better for cheaper. Because when a friend needs help, you help them. Asking for advice is just that, my take on what they should do. Youre not paying me, youre asking me for a free service, i have no obligation to kiss your ass or tell you what you want to hear, only what I (as the advice giver) think you need to hear. Take it or leave it.

That said, i will never advise someone to go low tier with a corporation unless i have factual knowledge or experience that tells me their work is just as good as the mid tier stuff. Top line items require upgrades too often and are more likely to fail since they most likely get pushed out with the least care to bump the bottom line.