Lesson 1: Building and Buying Options
Before we jump right in, there are a few options to consider:
Option 1: Buy a Pre-Built Computer from a trusted online distributor
We aren't talking about those cheap "E-Machines" or buying a computer from HP, Dell, Gateway or any of the name brand computer companies! Those computers usually have a huge markup and are often made from poor quality parts or are designed in such a way they will stop working in a year or so forcing you to purchase a new computer.
Believe me, I used to work for one of those companies (I'm legally not allowed to say which one) and if you saw how the computers are being built, how the components are being handled and the environment they are built in, you would probably never purchase from that company ever again.
A lot of these "E-Machines" in retail stores are so cheap because they are made from the lowest quality parts they can find and usually get horrible reviews by customers.
We of course are talking about buying from one of the online merchants we trust.
We can practically build the same machine using higher quality parts and the end price is usually a lot less plus we have the option of easily upgrading in the future! That's why we like the other two options better.
Option 2: Barebones Kit
Barebones Kits are basically computer kits that contain most of the basic components. Most kits come with a case, power supply, mother board and processor. Sometimes you can get one with a few more goodies. I've seen some where all you need to do is buy a hard drive and you're good to go.
There's a wide selection of kits you can chose from and most of these are relatively inexpensive. Barebone kits can save you money and for a first time builder, we recommend these kits if you are afraid you might accidentally buy incompatible hardware but still want to build it yourself.
Option 3: A complete customized computer built FOR YOU BY YOU!
This is by far our favorite option. This is where you can customize your computer just the way YOU want it! You get to decide what it looks like and how fast you want it to be!
The main benefits of this option is the comfort of knowing who built it and having complete control over the quality of the parts being installed into the system.
Next Lesson:
So now that you are aware of the 3 options, it's time to decide which one works best for you! We, of course, are going with option 3 and will explain it in detail every step of the way.
Please continue on to the next lesson: Lesson 2: Establishing a Budget.
