Build it Yourself PC Versus Store Bought

If you are in the market for a new computer, DIY might come to mind as an option. It’s important to remember that building your own computer isn’t the same as assembling an IKEA wardrobe.

This is because so many different parts can break if you don’t know what you’re doing. On the other hand, it also doesn’t require any specialist knowledge. It does require some research and a weighing up of the pros and cons – and we’re here to help with that.

Building your own PC can be more cost-effective than buying a pre-built one, but it’s important to know what kind of needs you have before deciding to build your own PC or buy a computer out of the box.

If you buy a pre-built PC, it will be tested for errors before it’s sold. This means that although it could cost more than building your own computer, at least you can be sure that there is no serious damage. If it’s damaged, you will have the option of returning it for a refund or replacement.

However, building your own computer allows you to use higher quality parts and allows you to make sure that everything is compatible with each other. You need to know how to do this because if this isn’t done properly, the device might not function correctly after it’s been built.

In addition, if you build your own PC, the warranty is going to depend on whatever parts you’ve used. If you want a warranty or at least some kind of guarantee, then it’s probably best to use reputable brands and not skimp on quality. This way, should something go wrong with one of your components where the warranty is no longer valid, it should be possible to get a refund.

Another benefit of buying a pre-built PC is that if there’s a problem with your device, you can take it back to the place of purchase, and they can help resolve it as quickly as possible. In this situation, you’re not on your own, and there’s someone else to help you with whatever it is that’s wrong.

What’s important is knowing what kind of processor, graphics card, and other components you need for your computer to function correctly with whatever tasks you want to use it for.

The downside of building your own PC is that if something breaks, it can be difficult to diagnose the problem and because there are so many different parts involved in a computer, it’s easy to forget or mix up what was done when. It’s like taking your car to different mechanics and trying to keep a handle on your service history.

Another benefit of building your own PC? It can be cheaper in the long run because you’re going to have full control over what you want and how much you’re willing to pay. If a part breaks, then there’s always a chance that you might be able to fix it without having to buy a new one, depending on what it is.

If you’re going to build your own PC, it’s a good idea to figure out how much power you want and need first because this will help dictate the components you buy. Not taking into account how much power you need could lead to you needing to upgrade a part.

What PC Is Right For You?

The answer might lie in what kind of PC you need. For basic PCs, most buyers find that a pre-built option is best. More high-end PC users, such as gamers that prefer a more customized setup, may find that a build-it-yourself option is preferred.

You might fall somewhere in the middle. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option so you can determine what is the right type of new PC for you.

Build it Yourself PC

Suppose you are mechanically inclined and think that buying a bunch of components (high-end GPUs, liquid cooling or fans, processors, LED/lighting switches, RAM, plastic or aluminum casing) individually sounds like fun. In that case, a build-it-yourself PC might be a worthwhile project to take on. After all, there are tons of YouTube videos that can show you what to do.

This option can balance the ratio of price to performance, helping high-end users get the most machine for the best price, which is the top reason PC users tackle building their own computers.

Pros

1. There’s less markup on high-end computer components than pre-built high-end computers, resulting in the ability to save money when you build your own PC.
2. You can customize everything. Building a PC from the ground up gives you the ability to get what you want without shopping around. Many pre-built options don’t mix and match higher- and mid-range components, but you can with a build. This can result in significant savings and a more efficient computer.
3. Individual computer components come with their own warranties, which often last longer than the warranty on an out-of-the-box model.
4. You’ll learn a lot as you build a computer, giving you the skills to make repairs and save money on maintenance over time.

Cons

1. Building a computer takes time. If you need a new machine right now, this probably isn’t a good idea.
2. You need to have a pretty good idea of what you are doing. Putting together parts incorrectly can result in malfunction, negate warranties, and cause you to spend extra money replacing parts.
3. Finding a reliable set of plans can be tricky. There are plenty of step-by-step guides on the internet, but how do you know which one to trust?

Pre-Built PC

Buying a PC off the shelf is the most common method of purchasing a new computer. These systems come at various price points and with varying features for different types of computing needs. The most significant advantage to buying a pre-built PC is that you can walk in and out of the store with a new computer immediately.

Pros

1. Pre-built computers have everything you need included. If you are intimidated by the difference between a CPU and GPU, a computer out of the box puts it all together. These models give you the ability to use the PC immediately.
2. Warranties are easy to navigate and understand with an off-the-shelf model, and you can contact the manufacturer if anything goes wrong. You don’t have to know which part is causing the problem.
3. Basic pre-built computers are often less expensive than building one yourself. Big manufacturers buy in bulk, and you get those savings with popular, mass-produced PC models.
4. It doesn’t take a lot of knowledge or know-how to pick out a computer that you can use, and you can buy multiple computers of the same type for an office environment.

Cons

1. Finding just the right computer can be difficult if you have specific needs or want specialty customizations. Pre-built computers often come with low-, mid-, or high-end components and options, but not a combination of the three. This can drive up the price even if you only need one type of high-end component, such as additional memory or a specialty graphics card.
2. For high-end systems, particularly for gaming, buying a computer at retail can be pricier than building one yourself.
3. You might have to hire someone else to do repairs or send it back to the manufacturer for warranty claims. The amount of time needed can vary with repairs, leaving you without a computer in the process.
4. Making changes to the PC, or opening the case, can negate the warranty if you want to add on components.

Connect Your PC to Other Devices

Whether you opt to build your own PC or buy a model that’s already assembled, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll add other devices to your setup. Peripheral devices may include printers or scanners, microphones or speakers, special keyboards, or gaming equipment. All of these PC add-ons use drivers to connect and function.

Solve iQ software can help manage those drivers to make that part of the PC installation process a little easier with automatic updates for almost any device and peripheral driver you can imagine.

Installing the most current and accurate driver will typically fix most problems that are experienced while operating Windows hardware devices. The original driver for any given hardware device often has been updated many times by the manufacturer to fix bugs and improve efficiency. Many users experience problems with older Windows devices for this reason.

Regardless of which option you choose when it comes to acquiring a PC (custom made or plain old store-bought), you can keep it and other peripherals running smoothly with SolveiQ.