It is increasingly popular to build your own computer. In most cases, it saves money, and it guarantees you get what you want. It also assures you avoid proprietary designs many companies use to keep you coming to them for new parts. Best of all, having built the system yourself, you become very familiar with that system and with computers in general.
People from all walks of life today build their own PCs. Executives, engineers, students, housewives, they all do it today. But, at the same time, pre-built PCs have come down in price quite a bit. Today, one is left to wonder whether it is best to build a PC yourself or to simply buy one off the shelf. I’ll address that here.
If you are a real PC enthusiast, this question may be a non-issue. The answer may be as obvious as the color of the sky. This is predictable, of course. When one builds their own PC, they are able to not only understand their PC better because they built it, but they are able to choose each component that goes into their PC. There is really something to be said for choosing your own components, and I’ll go into that further below. There is also a certain sense of satisfaction with having built a PC. One spends a few hours (or less for those more familiar with the process) to put the thing together. Then comes the moment of truth when one hits the power switch for the first time. If it works on the first try, its beer time!
But, besides the joy of it, is it worth it? Is it a practical use of your time? Will it really save you money? The answer to that question today has become a bit gray. A few years ago, the answer was obvious. Pre-built PCs were typically built from OEM, cheap components. The performance was average to simply awful. The choice was obvious: If you wanted a decent PC, you better build it. Today, the line has blurred. Where many off-the-shelf PCs today still use cheaper components in an effort to save money, there are more pre-built PCs today which do use quality hardware and whose performance ranks up there with the best of them.
Let us look at some of the key areas of interest in this:
Component Selection
Most commercial PC buyers (except for the ones who build higher end models) do not make a big deal of which components they use. They will, of course, tell you the specs of the system, but often do not elaborate on the brands of the equipment they use. Most lower to average priced pre-built PCs use more or less generic hardware. It gets the job done, but what you get is what you get. Upgrading can be a problem for this reason. In contrast, building your own PC means you can handpick all components in your system. You can ensure you get good, name brand hardware which will have proper manufacturer support and driver support. Most importantly, you can ensure you get hardware that will perform. One aspect of pre-built is that compatibility issues are taken care of by the manufacturer, but there is a tradeoff made in that guarantee.
Price
In general, you can get more bang for your buck building your own PC. In many cases, you will find equally priced and comparable PCs, where one is pre-built and one would be homebuilt. You can buy PCs cheaper than you can build them, but when you consider the hardware choices within, the price is offset in favor of homebuilt. One thing to consider here is the value of your time. If you are a very busy person where time is money, then you most likely want to buy a pre-built PC. If you don’t mind taking the time, though, you can do better doing it yourself.
Support
Available support is a key concern for do-it-yourselfers. When you build it yourself, there is nowhere to take the PC for service. You can’t say “Here, make this work.” On the other hand, pre-built machines typically do come with manufacturer support. But, support is anything but consistent. Some manufacturers have questionable records on support whereas some are quite good at it. Having support for your PC is no guarantee of having a problem-free user experience, and it is certainly no guarantee that they will take responsibility for your PC if it doesn’t work. The good news for do-it-yourselfers is that the community of people who do this kind of thing themselves is increasing. There is a lot of data on the internet, and community sources for assistance. I’m compelled to mention our own forums where a community of thousands is available to help you out on your PC.
Warranty
On pre-built PCs, there is typically a warranty on the whole system, and in many instances, you are offered an extended service plan at the time of purchase. Home built PCs do not have full system warranties, of course, but if you buy good name brand hardware, most of the components will themselves have warranties. So, really, either way, you can be covered here.
Software
Pre-built PCs often come with much software on it, most importantly the operating system itself. The actual price of the software is pretty good, because manufacturers get great deals on this software because they buy in bulk. On the flip side, though, these PCs sometimes come with too much software, meaning garbage that you do not want and just clutters the hard drive and bugs you to buy stuff. It can be quite annoying. On homebuilt PCs, you might pay a little more for the software per unit, but you will get what you want and only what you want, plus you can set it up how you want.
In general, I’m a big fan of the homebuilt PC. I’ve never used a PC I didn’t build myself. I think its a huge money saver. In my case, I built it myself, and then as technology progressed, I incrementally upgraded the machine. This saves a lot of money in the long run, because with a pre-built commercial machine, once it goes out of date, you pretty much need to start anew with a new PC.
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Elliot
22. Nov, 2009
I have a problem/thought/request.
I wish to make my own PC so noone has to spend 2000 dollars. I would like it to be endureble, fast, and easy on the eyes.
Now, at my school, I’ve found two rooms filled with PC’s. I have concluded that given the way they store them, one on top of the other, and their location (one room is in a closet, the oter a loading bay they never use, (I’ve taken classes for two years straight there)), they don’t care what happens to them.
Now, before any alarms can go off, I’M NOT GOING TO STEAL ANYTING, THE COMPUTERS ARE PROPERTY OF THE SCHOOL, I CAN’T STRESS THIS ENOUGH.
On that note, I was woundering if it’s possible to take parts from multible computers, and put them together to make one working PC.
How long can a PC collect dust and freeze before it’s useless?
Can I get rid of their stuff they installed before, like the login screens and software?
If said PC works, and I get internet up and runing, how long before it crashes and is there any way to keep it “healthy”, as some might say. (hint: ME)
Now, can said PC be able to run MMORPGs, like WoW or EVE, and how can I make it preform faster. (I’m a idiot but I believe it’s Frames Per Second right, or something. The faster the better, amiright?)
Now, as I right (type?) this down, I stupidly didn’t check the instructions at the top before I started, and I can’t save this stuff because, well, all I can say is I using a unsupported browse. Is there any website I can go to to help me put this together. I would prefer something I can follow easily, like a step-by-step thing, but anything will help.
Again I going to pass this idea to my school and parent, but if I get the green light, I’m gunna do it.
So thanks in advance!
GOrd
27. Nov, 2009
You’re an idiot Elf!
Santa
30. Nov, 2009
You must be one of my lost idiot elfs.
-Santa
Bacon
02. Feb, 2010
here is a simple answer if you take the parts from one of those computers and try to put it in a willy nilly computer you will probably have a problem with the other chips and cards ie: mother board+bios,video,RAM, and even hard drive. so i say if you want to build a computer learn about it. [Hint] read some pc magazines eg: PC user or the manual of a pc.
Elf
23. Nov, 2009
In most cases this is possible and most computer Teachers dont care if a part or to “disappear”. However, The fact that the computers are running on ME means that they are most likely Pentium II’s or III’s making the “fast” idea almost obsolete. Thost motherboards cant be upgraded to Pentium IV’s or faster and the other hardware is probably out of date as well. Your best bet is to make a list “realistic” on how you want your computer to act and what you want it to do. Once that is done you should probably checkout Newegg.com and you should be able to a good computer (no monitor, just CPU) for less than 600 USD. When dealing with Highschool hand-me-downs its like playing Wii games on an NES.
Hope this helped
-Elf
-Normality is only the Absence of Indifference. -Elf
PCMASTA
01. Dec, 2009
Elliot i will soon post a video on youtube regarding how to build up a pc i do not know how long for the dust and freezong, but i am experienced at building pcs. To keep it healthy, do not get any viruses and make sure you know what you are looking at and downloading. Regarding making it faster, if you build a pc worth gaming quality, the easier it will run and the faster. A good internet connection helps too. The stuff they have installed before will be part of the setup when u start. Basically, clean out the hardrive before you use it. that may be the hardest step.
datguy
05. Dec, 2009
As for the freezeup/dust collecting, it’s all relative to the storage conditions. A ‘moist’ area (AKA basement, storage shed) will ruin a Power Supply Unit in no time (trust me, been there done that). Dust can be easily remedied with a can of air, however make sure to take apart everything (except the PSU)!
The biggest problem that can be seen right away is the fact that schools tend to purchase computers for productivity, not for their excellent graphics capability. If you want to play WoW, I suggest you find out what graphics cards those old comps have (if any) and whether they can even handle that amount of detail. As was mentioned earlier, they probably have pentium 2’s or 3’s, and since factory computers are RARELY unlocked, you won’t be able to overclock anything (not that that makes a difference on an old Pentium). Your best bet? If you were to assemble a PC with those older components, you should get a Linux OS (such as Ubuntu 8.04) and run that instead of windows. You can erase windows, but this whole project will take time to do, so commit or just leave it and buy a new computer.
Paul
09. Dec, 2009
I’ve been looking into building my own PC and start gaming again. The first person shooters on my PS3 aren’t as fun to play as the keyboard and mouse configurations I’m used to. The computer I have now is about 8 years old and I haven’t upgraded anything on it since 2003 so I’ve been doing a lot of research to get back up to speed. I’m looking to build a new desktop from the ground up. Everything new. Tell me what your thoughts are.
Here’s what I’ve got in mind.
Case: Coolermaster Storm Sniper
Processor: Intel i7 960 3.2 Ghz
Motherboard: Asus P6T SE Intel X58 Chipset CrossFireX Mainbaord Triple-Channel DDR3
Memory: Corsair 6GB (2GBx3) DDR3/1600MHZ
GPU: ATI Radeon HD 5970 PCI-E 16X 2GB DDR5
*I’m not sure of which companies put out a good power supply. I know it will have to be compatible.
*Should I get a single Radeon 5970 or will I get better results from a dual graphics card configuration? I’m worried about the stability.
*What about memory. Is it worth getting 12GB? I don’t plan on running other applications while gaming.
*Are FDD’s completely obsolete or should I get one just in case and for what reasons.
*Good monitor for gaming?
*Good keyboard or mouse you suggest for first person shooters?
If you are knowledgable about ANY of these questions please respond. I don’t expect you to have the answers to all of them.
Arnold
13. Dec, 2009
1st question answer :Gigabyte odin plus 700w shud do for crossfire
2nd questions answer: Dual cards would be better 2 radeon
5870 shud be better remember to get a psu of 700w or more
3rd question answer Its Worth getting if u have 64bit version of core i7 proccesor and a 64 bit os also other wise 4gb is enuf
4th question answer nope i dont think ull ever need them
5th question Viewsonic VX2433WM shud do good as gaming monitor
6th question answer Logitech G15 as keyboard and Razer Deathadder as mouse shud do
julie
28. Dec, 2009
too much specifics ,you are as dumb as everybody here..pure sinile and imbicile
skinny
05. Jan, 2010
@ Paul
If you are still going to build the computer, get an i7-920 and overclock it to 3.20GHz. that way you get the same performance but save $300. Also getting one better GPU will save more than getting 2 weaker GPUs. I am building a computer with a simalar config and I am going to use the Corsair CMPSU-850TX 850W PSU and I think you should have a look at it
:)
09. Dec, 2009
thats a great setup…if u hav 3000 or more dollars…
chintan
28. Dec, 2009
I was wondering if anyone could help me. I want to build a computer for this game I play. The Recommended requirements to play this game are listed below I will be using thispc just for gaming everday for about 6-10 hours.
Windows 98/2000/XP/ME
Pentium II 400 or above
256 MB or above
600MB or above
3D Display Cards with DirectX support 32MB or above 3D Display Cards with DirectX support
Yvonne
01. Jan, 2010
I’d like to know if there is a class anywhere to help students build their own computer as a means of learning how everything works. I’m not a “techie” and couldn’t cope with an IT course. But I want to learn how to build a computer with a teacher there to help me rather than on line with your very helpful site. Is there such a course?
Thanks.
Nick
05. Jan, 2010
Google your town and what you’re looking to do. If you google ex: Dallas Computer Building Class you should get some good results
who?
03. Jan, 2010
@ chintan
Looks like the computer that you need doesn’t require much. Ask Elliot up there if you can borrow one of his school computer and you’ll be fine.
Lee
03. Jan, 2010
If a computer has ever been anywhere near Windows ME, RUN AWAY! ME was worse than Vista and as a computer tech I will not touch a computer that ever had ME on it.
Tetris
08. Jan, 2010
Paul,
If you haven’t already built your computer you must note if you run DUAL 5970, you will need a 1000w power supply from a QUALITY manufacturer and that is recommended and suited for builds such as yours (and mine). Just remember that you’ll be putting $1500 minimum into your graphics cards alone so investing roughly $300+ for a psu would be a wise choice.
Also, when overclocking, you must think wisely about aftermarket cooling as this will be critical in your full size case. The wrong choice may end up not fitting in your PC with your plethora of hardware, or even worse may not provide enough cooling necessary to heat the CPU’s new clock speed that could see your new CPU overheat.
Good luck,
post back if you need anything
Al ex Back
22. Jan, 2010
I used to build quite a lot of pc’s in the win ME win XP early days. It always seemed to be far cheaper.
These days though the last 2 I’ve bought were from online pc builders who do custom builds.
Apart from the odd bit of sub standard hardware like a soundcard I find the rest is top notch gear and is well worth going with them rather than buying the components and building myself.
gare
26. Jan, 2010
GOrd and Santa are totally wrong. Elf makes a good point you can build a decent computer with parts ordered from Newegg.
GOrd and Santa should go back to the cornfields.
FunkMasterPC
26. Jan, 2010
# INTEL Core™ i7-950 Quad-Core 3.06GHz, LGA1366, 4.8 GT/s QPI, 8MB L3 Cache, 45nm, 130W, EM64T EIST VT XD, Retail
# COOLER MASTER V8 CPU Cooler, Socket 1366/775/940/AM2, Aluminum
# TUNIQ TX-3 High-Performance Thermal Compound, Electrically Non-Conductive
# SERVICE Mild Overclocking, 10-20% Performance Increase
# CUSTOM Premium 1xCPU + 2xGPU Liquid Cooling Kit, Installed (Dual Loop)
# CUSTOM Coolant, NightClub Blue
# ASUS P6T, LGA1366, Intel® X58, 6400 MT/s QPI, DDR3-2000 (O.C.) 12GB /6, PCIe x16 SLI CF /3, SATA 3.0 Gb/s RAID 5 /8, HDA, GbLAN, FW /2, ATX, Retail
# CRUCIAL 6GB (3 x 2GB) PC3-10600 DDR3 1333MHz CL9 1.5V SDRAM DIMM, Non-ECC
# EVGA GeForce® GTX 275 CO-OP PhysX, GTX 275+GTS 250, 633+738MHz, 1280MB GDDR3 2268+2200MHz, PCIe x16 SLI, DVI /2, Retail
# GIGABYTE GV-N26OC-896I, GeForce GTX 260 650MHz, 896MB GDDR3 2000MHz, PCIe x16 SLI, VGA+DVI, HDMI, Retail
# SERVICE Overclocking, Dual GPU, Optimal and Stable Performance
# SEAGATE 1TB Barracuda® 7200.12, SATA 3 Gb/s, 7200 RPM, 32MB cache
# RAID No RAID, Independent HDD Drives
# SABRENT CRW-UINB Black 65-in-1 Card Reader/Writer Drive, 3.5″ Bay, Internal USB
# SONY AD-7241S Black 24x DVD±R/RW Dual-Layer Burner w/ Lightscribe, SATA, OEM
# EDIMAX EW-7728In Wireless Adapter, Draft 2.0 IEEE 802.11b/g/n 300Mbps, PCI
# THERMALTAKE Armor Black Full-Tower Case w/ Window & 250mm Fan, EATX, No PSU
# NZXT Sentry 2 Black Fan Controller, Touch Screen, 5-Channel Fan Controller, 5.25″ Bay
# CUSTOM WIRING Standard Wiring with Round Cables
# LOGISYS 12″ Single Cold Cathode Case Light Kit, Blue
# CHIEFTEC Turbo Power Supply w/ Modular Cables, 850W, 80 PLUS®, 24-pin ATX12V EPS12V, Retail
# MICROSOFT Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit Edition, OEM
# SERVICE OEM System Recovery (secure HDD partition only)
# SERVICE System Binder
# BLIZZARD World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King PC Game, Retail
# LOGITECH FREE Deluxe 250, Black, USB, OEM
PC of the gods
DeltaN9neTHC
28. Jan, 2010
@ who?
LoL !
Shanney
30. Jan, 2010
@ FunkMasterPC
How much did/would something like that cost you to build?
shanney
30. Jan, 2010
Quick Question;
I’m not much of a techy, but I want to update my computer.
My computer is like 7 years old. It’s a Compaq Presario
with Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Processor Intel ~2700 Mhz
I’m not sure what else is in there lol, but I want to know what things I should get to make it run faster, and more efficient. I’m into photography and am constantly editing pictures with adobe software and such, and it’s getting to be a hastle because those programs take up alot of memory especially when you’re saving files as well. So my computer runs slow, freezes and just completely stops working completely sometimes. I have ran disk defrag, disk cleanup and have even uninstalled programs that i didn’t use, but nothing seems to work now.
If someone could let me know what I should do (besides buying a new computer) please do so. I would love the help. Even if I have to rebuilt my comp on it’s own thats fine, I have a lot of spare time on my hands. I just need to know how.
KMG
05. Feb, 2010
@ Shanney
Add Memory. My desktop is about 7 years old as well and adding memory did wonders for it. The thing is, usually memory is more expensive for older computers (but cheaper than a new PC). You’ll need to see how many slots you have available to add more memory or replace the one you have with a new one.
Good luck!
i touch myself
06. Feb, 2010
The cheapest Mac with OSX Snow Leopard (MacMini) is faster than the fastest desktop you’ll get at Best Buy.