It essentially enables you to run software on systems where it would otherwise be incompatible. Rather than buy a Raspberry Pi and risk disappointment, why not just run the operating system? This can be installed in the QEMU emulator, a virtual machine, or as a live CD. And getting a good preview of what you're going to buy is simply common sense.
Fancy a $50 computer but not sure you want to take the risk? You're not a cheapskate, you're just being wise.
