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My 3 options are:
1 - Build a machine from scratch using all bought components
+ I can pick every single bit, and so know what my machine can do
+ I can shop around for best component prices
- Might not actually be cheaper than buying one
- Alot of effort
2 - Buy a machine off the shelf
+ Easy to do
+ Could be cheaper
- Don't know alot of inside details without opening the thing up
- May not be cheaper
3 - Buy a more stripped back machine and upgrade with my own components
+ Best of both worlds
+ Allows for certain components to be hand picked
- Still a bit of effort
- Might still end up costing more
So, does anyone have any suggestions? I've done a bit of searching, and it seems building is still somewhat cheaper, but not what it used to be. Anyone know of any good deals on either machines or components? Basically, anything to help me decide!
However, if all you want is a pretty fast computer to do general tasks, i.e. word processing, a few programs, maybe a low end game or two, nothing special. Then you're probably going to be spending £200, which makes the pre-built machines much more appealing.
So my opinion is, it's worth building your own system if you're going to be wanting something top end or close to, mid-range might still be viable to build your own, but if you shop around you might be fine going pre-built, low end is definitely a pre-built option.
I tend to find the prices of pre-built andf home built are pretty much excatly the same - often homebrew systems come in a little more expensive the pre-built (what with system builders buying in bulk and all)
The problem I always have is, once I've speced out the kit I'd buy for a homebrew build, is that I always notice the glaring weakness in the pre-built boxes - a slightly lower end graphics card, processor - or paying for something you know you don't want but comes in the package anyway (tv card or somesuch thing).
But, it always makes me feel better about the choice when I do start handing out my credit card details?
My 3 options are:
1 - Build a machine from scratch using all bought components
+ I can pick every single bit, and so know what my machine can do
+ I can shop around for best component prices
- Might not actually be cheaper than buying one
- Alot of effort
2 - Buy a machine off the shelf
+ Easy to do
+ Could be cheaper
- Don't know alot of inside details without opening the thing up
- May not be cheaper
3 - Buy a more stripped back machine and upgrade with my own components
+ Best of both worlds
+ Allows for certain components to be hand picked
- Still a bit of effort
- Might still end up costing more
So, does anyone have any suggestions? I've done a bit of searching, and it seems building is still somewhat cheaper, but not what it used to be. Anyone know of any good deals on either machines or components? Basically, anything to help me decide!