Barebones vs. Complete build

[Andyf]

I found a reasonably good deal on a barebones computer, which seems to save me a fair bit of cash.

My original plan was:

MoBo: Asus P5K deluxe (although eVGA 680i was second choice, so MoBo on barebones seems ok, even if I don't know the make).

Same CPU

Same RAM, but not sure of the make in this barebone.

so thats a saving of maybe $100, just from going with this system. Sure I dont get first choice MoBo, PSU, Case, RAM, but everything seems OK.

So whats the catch?

 

[veedubfreak]

Usually barebones systems are going to use the cheapest components they can get their hands on. The reason behind building your own is that you pick and choose each and every component for the best price/performance ratio.

After looking at that build, the memory is definately "value" memory because it doesnt have heat spreaders, there is no way to tell what release of the cpu it is, and a generic 430watt psu is just asking for trouble.

 

[peterhuang913]

You also want to build by yourself to get quality parts.

 

[Andyf]

Righty! Thanks very much. I was kind of hoping you'd say that- it means I still have a reason to be picky!