Most games online require devices with high specifications and good internet connection to run it properly. While many gambling games can be run with low end devices. That's the reason why I prefer online gambling rather than games online. More over, most gambling games are simple.
It still depends on someone's preference. Me as a gamer I would definitely invest to buy a high spec pc to play those new games that are newly released. I would regret it if I would just spend it on gambling. Meanwhile on gambling it doesn't bring me the enjoyment what I get from online games. All is about luck.
When you can afford to gamble your money online then I think you can invest first to a good computer that can handle the minimum specification of every gambling games that you would play.
Nothing beats the traditional gambling because that's the real one after all and having to play with real people is exciting and so much fun compare on playing online.