Hey, total newbie here looking to break into collecting coins lol
What is the most effective way to start?
How much would it cost to build a setup to mine verses just investing?
Your question is wrong.
Mining is an active investment.
Buying coins and holding or trading them is a passive investment.
Should you mine.
Yes if you have cheap power.
Yes if you want to stay off the grid.
Yes if you can get rid of heat and noise issues.
Yes if you have some tinkering skills.
Should you buy some coins and hold them.
Yes if you understand the advantages of buying and holding.
yes if you don't mind doing everything up front and paying taxes.
If you can join coinbase.com you can buy some coins and just hold them.