buy or build?

For cheap PCs, it's probably better value to buy one from a big company pre-built, because they get stock discounts when they buy in bulk; however, if you want a PC for anything more than just simple office tasks and browsing the web, then building is usually cheaper and better value for money, mainly because you're not paying for labour. Also, another advantage of building your own PC is you get to choose the spec that's just right for you.
 
^ Not to mention, pre-built ones often use poor quality components, especially the two most important ones. (Mobo and PSU)

The mobo will be the biggest difference in them, because a good one in a parts-built machine will have a lot more features, much higher build quality, and an unlocked BIOS. The PSU is a close second because the ones in OEM machines typically are awful, and if you build a machine you can pick a good one.
 
Drenlin said:
^ Not to mention, pre-built ones often use poor quality components, especially the two most important ones. (Mobo and PSU)

The mobo will be the biggest difference in them, because a good one in a parts-built machine will have a lot more features, much higher build quality, and an unlocked BIOS. The PSU is a close second because the ones in OEM machines typically are awful, and if you build a machine you can pick a good one.
Click to expand...

Yeah, that too ^
 
So many points to make, biggest ones for me are the following:

1. If you can get good parts at good prices (ie. good sale at local store, or online) and you know how to do it yourself without botching anything - you'll save a ton no matter what and get a better computer
2. If you build your own, you have no warranty other than manufacturer defect for a set time period for each part you purchased. Troubleshooting and RMA is done by you or at your expense.

1 is a Pro, 2 is a Con. Obviously its fun, and your less tech-saavy buddies will drool ove your creation, and possibly pay you to do it for them.
 
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