If you’re tired of using the same computer every day, you might be wondering if it’s better to buy a new one or build your own. It all depends on the kind of computer you need. Most people get pre-built basic computers. But for gamers, customized PCs are preferred. You might be asking yourself, “Why not buy a high-end computer instead of doing all this work?” In some aspects, it’s wiser to build a PC if you’re a high-level gamer or a professional. If you need a high-powered workstation, here are the pros and cons of building your computer.
Pros
- It’s Less Expensive
It might be impossible to believe that building your PC is cheaper. However, it’s possible to purchase different parts of the PC at a total lower price than a pre-built PC. Pre-built computers have labor costs, and building your computer avoids the extra labor cost. You don’t necessarily need expensive parts.
- It’s Upgradable
If you build your computer, you can get the exact components you need and want. Each part is easily upgradable by swapping out a couple of parts. This is also possible for pre-built computers, but then your warranties might be void. You can upgrade each part whenever you want.
- Pieces have a Different Guarantee
Individual parts come with warranties that last longer than pre-built computers. Because it’s cheaper to replace individual parts, the warranty of the manufacturer may last longer. It’s worth considering that pre-assembled computers come with a warranty that often lasts a year only.
- It’s Customizable
You get what you want instead of endlessly trying to find the perfect feature combinations. Pre-built computers have parts that you don’t want or need, and have you pay for them. Pre-built options often don’t combine mid-range and high-range components. Building your computer gives you the advantage of customizing the components you want.
Cons
- No Official Technical Support
Computer manufacturers provide technical support for their systems. Velocity Micro, for example, has a dedicated PC support hub for customer service, warranty info, tutorials, and an FAQ directory. Building your computer will deprive you of a help desk you can run to if your PC ever runs into problems. Your hard-drive manufacturer will only assist with your hard drive.
- No Official Warranty
The individual parts of your PC will inevitably encounter issues and fail. Parts fail no matter which company installed or made them. Pre-built computers have a warranty that covers all of the components of your computer. The company provides support until they find the cause of your computer’s failure. Individual hardware sellers won’t work with your entire computer unit.
- You Do All The Work
Piecing together the hardware of your computer takes a lot of time, effort, and patience. If you are lucky enough to have a background in computer components, you will successfully build your PC. Doing everything yourself requires more than placing parts together. It also requires appropriate configuration and working out troubleshooting issues.
- Components Might Be Incompatible
Computer manufacturers already test the computers they will sell. If something isn’t in order, chances are, it won’t be put on the display shelf. They won’t sell computers until they’re sure that the chosen parts are compatible with each other.
Ultimately, it all depends on your needs, budget, and effort you’re willing to put in. If you have some skill in putting things together, it shouldn’t be too difficult. You must be willing to do your research if you put your computer together. On the bright side, it’s more cost-effective and flexible to build your computer. However, you need technical hardware knowledge since you’re doing everything on your own.