Any computer experts?

[JE3146]

Originally Posted by bsmokin

I have built several PCs in the past and I would agree with this statement. You can buy a good, manufactured computer for so cheap now, building your own really doesn't pay anymore...

You're gaining quality components that you hand pick and a clean OS installation that's free of bloatware.

There could be 5 other reasons, but those 2 alone make it worth building a computer every time to me.

[XTRazzer]

Originally Posted by JE3146

You're gaining quality components that you hand pick and a clean OS installation that's free of bloatware....

Exactly the same reasons I build my desktops. With the added bonus that I go with a bigger than required power supply to permit future upgrades.

Many manufacturers put the minimum power supply required to run the computer when it leaves the factory. So, when you want a new video card in two years you'll also be buying a new power supply. If you really hit bad luck you'll also be buying adapters for the proprietary motherboard connectors.

I bought an HP laptop a few years back and spent at least 12 hours removing the factory-installed junk that I didn't want. Using this example with a rate of $20/hour for my time, that gives me an extra $240 to justify building a desktop.

[mosesbotbol]

Originally Posted by XTRazzer

I bought an HP laptop a few years back and spent at least 12 hours removing the factory-installed junk that I didn't want. Using this example with a rate of $20/hour for my time, that gives me an extra $240 to justify building a desktop.

If you want to "know" your PC, you should format it and install all the drivers from scratch whether it is home built or a big name. It can be involved as manufacturers are not keen on supplying OS on disk. As long as the cab files are there, you should be able reinstall the OS via WinPE.