Desktop Computer Packages

Would it be cheaper to build my own computer or to just buy one?

Need a desktop that will be powerful enough to play some current video games; it doesn't necessarily need to be top of the line though. Would it be cheaper to build my own computer (maybe wait for sales for each individual piece) or to wait for a sale on a desktop (perhaps a cheap Dell)(maybe buy the cheapest Dell and upgrade some parts such as the video card)?

Public Comments

1. Ultimately, you'd be better off building. It'll be cheaper, plus you'll get the exact parts you want And you'll learn from the experience
2. Well it depends how technically inclined you are. If you know what you are doing then you can build a computer that is perfect for you...if not. Then it is better to buy one that is already built. The prices wont be much different if the computers are equal. Hope this helps! If you have anymore problems email me: tomrocks907@hotmail.com
3. First off stay away from Dell. Their computers are very hard to upgrade due to the fact that they have lots of stuff custom made for their machines. Your best bet would be to buy your parts separately and assemble the computer yourself. If you have any questions or concerns about doing it yourself you can always go online and watch videos of people building computers. I have found out from experience that when building a desktop computer it is always cheaper to build it your self.
4. When you get to true gaming-level computers, stay away from Dell. Their gaming grade machines are WAY overpriced for what you get. Short answer is, yes, it is almost always cheaper to build. You'll get higher quality, more powerful components for less than you'd pay for a less capable, prebuilt machine. If you're comfortable building...then don't hesitate. However, there are indeed boutique computer builders from which you can purchase a good gaming grade computer for within %10 of the cost of building one yourself. Check out CyberpowerPC.com. They're the last place I ever bought a pre-built computer from and they do a pretty good job.
5. Don`t look at the make, for dell u are paying alot for the name. For example matrix warehouse sells PC that they make up but has a full garentee by them and it is cheaper than building ur own