To Build or Buy a Computer?

[beast1989]

I need opinions on whether to build or buy a new computer. I looked at a few youtube DYI videos and it looks simple enough.

My budget is sub $500 so what would be the most bang for your buck option? Is it worth the hassle to build? Any input is appreciated.



I had this computer in mind from bestbuy and hopefully get a deal from forum member sixseven on it click here

 

[BamaAlum97]

IMO...there is no longer the same economic benefit to building like there was several years ago. You should e able to purchase a very good PC for less than $500. I have purchased two this year. A laptop and a desktop. Both were less than $500.

 

[beast1989]

Do you have any links to any suggested PCs? What do you think about the specs vs value of the one I linked?

 

[stick4]

I would build since about your only option for an OS off the shelf is Windows 8. www.pricewatch.com or www.newegg.com are sources I've bought from previously.

 

[JonDough]

Buy one

 

[elwoodtrix]

question is, what do you plan to use it for?

 

[Sanford]

I built a bunch of them for a number of years - from 8088 to P4. The most recent three we own are two Dell desktops and one HP Laptop, because they've become such commodity items that I simply couldn't build one as cheaply as I could buy them. While I actually *could* still build one "better" that would "last longer" the fact is that just like any that are purchased it would be obsolete as soon as I turned it on.

So, unless there's something very specific that you want or need that isn't available in an off-the-shelf system, buy instead of build. Unless of course you just want to build for the fun of it - in that case, go for it!

 

[beast1989]

It's use is going to be primarily non-intensive. Surfing, YouTube, occasional video downloading and I MIGHT buy the new simcity.

Buying Seems like the best option I guess. Any opinion on the system I chose and if it's a good value?

 

[RickN]

I build because I do not end up with all the crapware that comes installed on factory PCs, I can build to meet my needs, and I can install the OS I want.

EDIT: As for the PC you linked, not bad. I always had good luck with HPs back when I was buying them and that has plenty of storage and memory.

 

[jmike314]

Buy.

I was in sales & service for several years at a local shop here in OKC.
PCs are like toasters nowadays. Unless you have specific hardware/software needs then your best bet would probably be getting a boxed model.