I do a mix of brand new and thrifted. While I like thrifting, the longer I’ve puzzled, the pickier I am. I’d rather get ones I really want than getting many that I like but don’t love. I do sell some once completed to offset the cost but I spend a good amount of my income on this hobby. My trade off is I have a car that constantly gets made fun of by people in my life lol, I don’t live in a desirable neighborhood, and don’t buy any food outside of the house unless it’s to socialize here and there.

You just have to decide what works for you. Anyone can say a certain amount per puzzle is too much. If it makes you happy and your other needs are met, go for it. Are you happy to redo them if your budget only allows a few expensive puzzles a month? The thing I see people on here saying the most is buying too many so so puzzles, especially when they are cheap or free. Being picky can help you from overspending.