To build or not to build?...

greyster

... that is the question...

It's been a few years since I built a PC. Are there any bargains to be had that are cheaper than building yourself?

I want a reasonably top end spec PC. Need a 19-20" TFT as well but doesnt have to be in a package.

I started off looking at these Dell deals and perhaps swapping the gfx card out for a better one. I am a gamer so need to be bare that in mind too.

Any ideas or should I start spec'ing components on ebuyer.com?

cdbrown

I always like to build my own computer because it does come out cheaper especially for high end, best to check out some of the high end packages available upgrade the components as necessary and then see what it costs for components only. If going for a package one, make sure it's easily upgradable (spare memory slots, quicker cpu options)

tr3mor

I've noticed that if you build yourself a core2duo system it works out much cheaper than buying at the moment. Most shops are selling core2duos as a premium product.

It's still the same as ever with regards to bought PCs having cheap motherboards, soundcards, cases etc...

I would still build one for myself any day.

greyster

I was thinking about PSUs too. I tend to splash out on good ones due to a bad experience a few years back

esuhl

greyster wrote:

I want a reasonably top end spec PC.

In that case, I'd definintely go for a self-built PC. Most people buying computers only look for basic criteria - chip speed, disk capacity etc. In a competetive market it makes sense to make these as appealing as possible... but cut corners on the little details (on-chip cache size, FSB speed etc.)

A self-build allows you to research every component and cut corners where YOU want to (for example, I have a fairly decent PC but a rubbish graphics card because I don't play games).

Go on, fulfil your inner geek!

Astaroth

Having looked into the same for myself it is certainly cheaper to self build if you are not needing a screen. Including a screen and it much more hit and miss on price for what on basic specs are like for like but as other have pointed out even if you have 2 mobos based on the same chipset there is still a fair variance in performance between different models

Frell

For good deals https://www.ebuyer.com I get a bit of stuff from there. and the service is top notch too.

Toxteth_OGrady

Recent similar discussion here.

:cool:

TOG

wolfman

Got for a Core 2 Duo, E6300 or E6400. Easily overclockable to an E6700.

The Gigabyte DS3 is a good choice of motherboard. Constantly being developed (the Bios), they've just released the seventh bios update.

You'll need to do some research though, make sure you get the best, and most compatible parts.

For a screen look at the recent 20" LG L204WT. It's on PC Pro's A-List, and costs around £225 (at Komplett).