Build or Buy your next PC ?

I often get asked "should I buy or build my own computer". Here are some and the pros and cons of building your own computer.

Pros:

• You usually get retail brand name components that are better quality than with PC manufacturers.
• You usually can save up to 50% of the price or the way I see it: Get a faster computer for the same or even often less money.
• You will more easily be able to upgrade your computer in the future. Need a new video card in 3 years, just "pop" the old one out and replace with the new one.
• You can incrementally build your computer (lowering even further the money you need to get started).
• If you already have the operating system (XP, Vista, Linux) you do not have to buy it again.
• You don't need to purchase what you already have (keyboard, mouse, screen, speakers ....).
• It's always a plus to know how a computer is built (this skill  can help troubleshoot hardware failures).
• You will experience a sense of satisfaction, be cool and admired by your family and friends.

Cons:

• It takes more time (once you have all the components probably around 4 to 8 hours of work) the shopping part is the longest for me.
• No 1-800 support from a manufacturer (of course all the components in your PC should still be under some warranty).
• You need to be a little handy and have a few tools (usually just screwdrivers).  If you are the type of person that easily breaks things this is not for you.
• You must be a wise shopper (or become one by reading Building your own PC)
   

If you have decided to build your own computer and need further help, visit this article: Building your own PC.

Update 02/05/2007: I have put together a few systems see How I saved $1800 by building my own computer!

Please find following a selection of online stores that offer desktops computers. Often one store might have the best price on a certain model and another store the best price on another. Always compare before purchasing it takes a few minutes and can save you hundreds of dollars.

Store	Remark
Amazon	One of the easiest and trusted online stores.
Buy.com	One of the largest online stores. Very reliable. Often free shipping and huge selection and prices. Caries all major brands of desktop and laptop computers (Sony, HP, Gateway, Lenovo...).
eCOST	Large selection of desktop computers and laptops most at excellent prices.
NewEgg.com	Every computer expert already knows this store on the best (Prices/Reviews/Reliability)!
OnSale.com	Good selection of desktops and laptops.
Overstock.com	Not always a huge selection but can have some of the best prices.
Tech Depot	The technology store of Office Depot. Has the advantage of also being a brick and mortar shop.
TigerDirect	Good selection and sometimes the best prices online.
Wal-Mart - Computers

 

Brand Store	Remark
Fujitsu	The online Fujitsu store with desktops and laptops.
Sony	Maker of some of the best looking laptops on the market. Also offer desktops.
Toshiba	One of the oldest laptop makers.

Note: Some of the previous links are "affiliate links". These links enable SiteBuddy to make a small commission (usually in the 1% to 5% range) should you decide to purchase from those stores. This does not change anything for you (i.e. you do not pay more for the products). SiteBuddy makes a small commission without it costing you a penny more. In the future, if you plan to purchase from any of these stores please visit then from these links (why not bookmark this page?). By doing so you will be supporting SiteBuddy.