Building vs. Buying a PC – Which Is Right For You?

Buying a Pre-Built PC or Building your own from scratch depends on you and your requirements. So, let’s take a look at how to decide which is the right choice for you. Tech experts explain the factors you need to consider, the pros and cons that together will help you choose the best option for you.

1. Buying PreBuilt: Convenient and Ready to Go

The advantage of pre-built PCs is pretty obvious; they’re convenient and ready to go out of the box with no technical knowledge required. Some even come with peripherals like mice and keyboards included, which is always appreciated. There are some deals out there that can be a good option for those that are disinclined to learn the intricacies of PC building. 

2. Building Your Own: Get More Value For Your Money

But in my opinion, by building your own PC, you can just get so much more bang for your buck. The problem with pre-builts is that manufacturers often tend to cheap out on one component or another to maximize their profit margins. There’s always something in the build that you could do differently to make it more economical and better performing. 

Yes, I get that PC building can be daunting. It might not be for everyone. But believe me, every tech nerd also knows how daunting it can be, and great measures have been taken to guide you through the process of picking out parts and assembling them. 

If you take the effort to find the perfect components for your budget and requirements, I’m sure you’ll end up with something far better than what pre-builts offer. And hey, you might not even need to assemble the thing yourself. A lot of computer stores offer technicians to build it for you. In the end, what matters most is that you’d be getting the best value out of your hard-earned money.

Patrick Sinclair, Founder, and Tech Blogger Allhomerobotics.com

3. Building The PC is Cheaper

Well, I would always go with building a PC because the expense of purchasing a pre-built computer is the most significant disadvantage. Pre-built PCs are generally more expensive than DIY PCs since manufacturers usually employ non-OEM parts. Retail computer parts can be more expensive, increasing the overall cost of a pre-built PC. When it comes to pre-built PCs, there is an exception to this rule. During the holidays, many companies conduct exclusive sales, such as Black Friday or clearance sales, to make place for new products. Pre-built PCs, on the other hand, are more expensive in the long run.

4. Building Your Own; Helps You Understand It Better

Buying a pre-built PC may not be the best option if you want to get to know your computer intimately. Because the components are chosen by the manufacturer, you won’t have to do any research to understand each part of the system. There will be less personalization as a result of this. So, if you want a deep understanding of your computer and need to fine-tune it to your specific demands, a pre-built system is unlikely to meet your expectations.

Jeroen van Gils, CEO at EcomContent

5. Buying The PC is Much More Simpler

Building a computer may be too difficult for some people. Purchasing a pre-assembled system has various advantages. Compatibility is one of the primary benefits. The PC manufacturer assures that all of the components in the computer are in good working order. This means they ensure that components will not crash or cause performance problems. Drivers and software for those components should also be included in the compatibility list.

6. Buying PreBuilt: Warranty and Support

Another significant benefit of purchasing a PC is the system’s warranty and support. An extended warranty is usually available, with some manufacturers covering accidental damage. Any warranty or support concerns should also be handled by a single point of contact. For computer problems, most companies provide a phone number, a website, or a combination of both. Some companies may provide 24-hour help, depending on the company.

7. Buying PreBuilt: No Effort Required to Research Parts

Another advantage of buying a pre-built PC is that you don’t have to worry about researching individual components for compatibility, quality, and other considerations. The manufacturer should provide many configuration options so that you may make an informed decision based on your demands. You also don’t need to be a technical expert to set up a new computer. If you have any queries about the offerings, there is generally a phone number or email address where you can contact them. 

Alex Uriarte, Personal Injury Attorney at 1-800-Injured

8. Custom Builds Benefit: More Flexibility

Builds allow users to choose needed parts. Memory and power are top demands, and sustainable long term use is also important. 

9. Custom Builds Benefit: Cost

Custom builds tend to be cheaper at purchase because add-ons will contribute to its value over time. It’s easier to budget and buy more additions when funds become available. Repair-wise, builds are easier, less costly to replace parts. 

10. Custom Builds Downside: Sourcing Parts

Users should know where to find all parts to create a functioning desktop. Video cards are in high demand right now and are difficult to find. 

11. Custom Builds Downside: Expertise

Users need to know how each component is assembled. Learning and building take time, and most people need access to files and the internet on an immediate basis.

12. Purchased Models Benefit: Purchasing Value

All necessary components are included at purchase. Sellers may also offer a packaged bundle that increases purchase value but doesn’t necessarily cost more. Additional items range from accessories to extended warranties. 

13. Purchased Models Benefit: Warranty

Most purchased PCs come with 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for any defective parts. Custom builds are more difficult to cover. 

14. Purchased Models Downside: Quality

Cheaper models may contain low-quality parts mixed with high-grade components. Some may contain the equivalent of a laptop motherboard, making upgrades difficult. Not all systems are alike. Two systems can vary in quality as long as specs on the box are met. 

15. Purchased Models Downside: Repairability

Most manufactured PCs are intentionally built to prevent repair access, making them difficult and costly to disassemble and install new components.

Carl Ramsey, Operations Manager Tek Experts

16. Buying Pre-Built: Better Option For Basic Work

The decision between buying a PC or building it yourself relies on very different factors. It can be time, money, level of expertise, and most importantly, the use you will be giving your PC. 

Buying a pre-built one is the most convenient option. It’s all a matter of picking, paying, plugging, and using. You don’t need any kind of deep knowledge, expertise, or building skills. And it’s honestly the best option if you only need your PC for basic work, social media, or watching movies. Most people will do very well with buying a prebuilt PC; there are many great computers out there with great prices.  

17. Building Your Own: Better Option For Specific Tasks

However, there are people that need a bit more specific things, mainly because they perform very specific work on their PC. For example, gamers, video editors, graphic designers, programmers, and even crypto farmers. In those cases, these people have way more knowledge about computers, parts, components, etc. That knowledge also helps them get the best quality for their money, so they can end up with a great custom-built PC that will satisfy their needs, all for a great price. Stefan Ateljevic, Founder of PlayToday.co