Pre-built Versus Custom Built Computers

When I built my first computer I found it surprisingly easy. In fact,  the word "built" is a misnomer. Assemble or integrate is a better description of what is actually done. Deciding whether to buy or build can be a tough question to answer. Buying a pre-built computer is the option most people choose. There are advantages to buying a pre-built computer and there are disadvantages.

Advantages of buying a pre-built computer.

The main advantage of buying a pre-built computer is price. You can purchase a pre-built computer for as little as $400 (as of this writing) complete with everything the average user need. That often includes a monitor, speakers and sometimes a printer. To sweeten the deal, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer - another misnomer since most computer vendors do not actually manufacture the parts they use) vendors will often bundle software so that you can began using your computer right out of the box. Finally, you can generally contact vendor for warranty repairs if the computer misbehaves during the warranty period. That, however, is about where the advantages end.

Disadvantages of buying a pre-build computer.

There are two major disadvantages of buying a pre-built computer. The first is that some OEM will use proprietary parts. In many cases, that is not an issue. However, Murphy's Law will dictate that the computer will misbehave after the warranty period. Often, when you attempt to replace or upgrade a part you will find yourself at the mercy of the OEM. OEM's will charge as much as 5 times the cost for replacement parts. A part that may cost $10.00 for a custom built computer could easily cost over $50.00 from the OEM. You may also find that the failed proprietary part is no longer available. (I found this to be true with a power-supply that failed. Fortunately, I was able to find a 3rd party replacement.) Support is generally provided through the OEM and some 3rd party support vendors will decline repairs depending on the proprietary sub-systems on the computer. As a result you may find it difficult to find a local repair shop and may have to ship the computer for repair. I recently take in an out-of-warranty laptop that needed a motherboard. The OEM refused to ship a replacement motherboard and the cost of repair was more that the cost of a replacement laptop.

The second disadvantage is that you cannot be sure about the integrity of the parts used. Some OEM's will buy defective lots at a substantial discount and integrate them into the computer. As long as the computer pass the OEM's benchmark and quality test the machines will ship to the end users with the defective part. My experience has been that some OEM's will provide users with very nice and well built external computer case, but  will include a cheap motherboard, and an extremely low-end computer processor along with a proprietary power supply. Many well know OEMs often develop specifications that require proprietary memory and in some cases proprietary hard drives. Since computers have almost no moving parts the chances of failure drops dramatically. However, cheap parts will increase the chances of failure or "glitches" as we [techies] like to call them.

If you plan to buy a pre-built computer make sure the OEM has a reputable reputation and avoid their low cost configurations.

Advantages of buying a custom built computer.

The main advantage of buying a custom built computer is that you get exactly what you pay for. Custom built computers allow you to specific anything from the brand name of the motherboard to the type and size of the case. Every part in it is standard so that repairing and upgrading it is easier and cheaper. You will have the option of building one that fits your budget and if you elect an inexpensive motherboard it's your decision. Support generally can be obtained from most local 3rd party sources, or directly from the parts manufacturer. The upgrade path will generally be cheaper and easier - making upgrading possible for the do-it-yourselfer.

Speaking of do-it-yourself, you are probably capable of building (actually assembling) your own computer. Doing so will provide a rewarding experience and you'll develop an appreciation for how the parts work together.

Disadvantages of buying a custom built computer.

The disadvantages with buying a custom built computer is that generally there is no software bundled with the computer. Buying software can add a significant price to the computer system. Additionally, you will lack cohesive warranty support. However, there are thousands of support orientated websites available to assist you with problem solving and resolution should the need arise (including this one).

If your work is mission critical you may actually save money by building your own computer or buying a custom built computer rather than buying a high-end OEM system. However, if the thought of opening the case scares you then consider buying a pre-built computer or a custom-built computer from a system integrator. If you are using graphic intensive applications, or online gamming software, you may be better served by buying/building a custom built computer. Whether you buy or build your computer, support should ultimately be available from a number of source. However, support for proprietary systems may be hard to find for out of warranty pre-built systems.  The standard warranty for new pre-built computers range from 90 days to 3 years. Warranties apply to individual parts for custom-build computers.

This article assumes desktop units unless otherwise specified.

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