Features - QOTW: Do you self-build or buy built?

[HEXUS]

Is building your own PC a hassle or a pleasure?

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[mark22]

Always have self built but with Windows 8 tabs on the horizon this might be my last desktop, it'll keep me going for a few years anyway.

[Gascogne]

Always self built here as well and just got my new psu today -> Seasonic Platinum 860w.^^

[Tuilalcaron]

Usually always self build because I can get exactly what components I want and you get much greater satisfaction from building your own. Worth checking out pre-builts though just in case you can grab a bargain.

[flearider]

self builds give you what you want/need ..in the best package
most prebuilt systems skimp where they can or really overcharge for whats in it ..

[robbiec]

Self build for me. For some strange perverse reason I enjoy losing a weekend every 18 months or so swearing, trapping fingers, pulling hair, loosing screws, screw drivers etc as I build my own spec machine. I think half the fun is researching the best bits, i.e. Noiseblocker PL2 fans are amazing and the other half is the satisfaction you get from going all bespoke. For sure the reason is not saving money.

[Noxvayl]

Always self build and I don't plan on stopping. I like to read in depth analysis about computer hardware so my enjoyment of learning about the components in my computer paired with the reduced price derived from purchasing only the essentials for each upgrade make for a win - win situation.

[theprofno1]

first rig was prebuilt falcon (cyrix 333,lol),but ever since my amd k6 400 ive self built all mine and the kids pc's ,usually every couple of years for myself.Last rig was e6400 dual core and newest one 2600k ,since building this one ive changed the fans,cpu cooler,ram and ssd from what i first put in,what would Dell or someone charge for changing one part every couple of months?

[helpiveimploded]

I will always self-build in the future. The ability to choose your own components, down to the individual fans, is an absolute must for an enthusiast. Half the fun of buying a new PC is getting it to work correctly, and having the bragging rights to say that you encountered eighty bajillion problems while assembling it, but fixed them all. It's as much about a sense of achievement as it is about getting the preferred components.

[scaryjim]

Wouldn't dream of not self-building for a desktop computer that was going to be used in my house - as good as most system configurators are, nothing beats being able to pick every last component that makes up your spanking brand new system.

Also, self-building often means you can pick up second-hand parts cheap and mix/match with new parts where necessary: something that simply isn't possible with pre-built.

And finally, as Noxvayl points out, a self build is - to a certain extent - easier to tinker with and upgrade. No need to worry about how things are wired, tied and plugged - you did it all yourself so you know exactly why everything is where it is

[cocksy_boy]

Always self build too. I'm pretty sure it works out cheaper and you get to tailor it to exactly what you need, as well as making sure it upgradable and as future proof as possible!

[pollaxe]

Always self-built, apart from a one-off treat of a Vadim system in 2006.

[tigertop1]

If I build it myself I get a lot of satisfaction, more knowledge and confidence I can fix it if a problem arises

[atomictom]

i love building it myself. i somehow always get it much cheaper and with everything i want than any pre-built system. did my first 20 months ago and i've been upgrading mine and building for my family and friends since!

[Attila the Bun]

I get a real kick from self-build and just like the others I enjoy sourcing the parts, reviewing the specs and getting the best value for money. The recent build I did for my brother ,as a thank you for all the help he's given me on the house, was the most satisfying as I was able to build a good quality home computer for just over £250. And they love it which please me greatly

[edvinasm]

I love building PCs probably more than using them. I have even placed an ad last week "Will build PC for FREE, just supply parts" ) Pity am in Ireland, no one interested here.