Pre-Built PC vs. Custom Built Computers: Which is Your Best Choice?
Whether you are a gamer, graphic designer, developer, blogger, or you’re buying your first computer, the choice between a pre-built or custom-built computer could be a big deal. There are several reasons why people decide against purchasing a pre-built machine. Among them is wanting total control over the computer hardware and software. But we also believe that it is a smart move to purchase a pre-built and save money on expensive high-end components.
Part of deciding between the two options can mean understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each option. With this post, computer experts at PC & MAC Medics experts seek to clear the confusion so you make a more educated decision during your next purchase.
At PC & Mac Medics, we do not just fix pre-built computers. Our experience and latest equipment enable us to offer personalized computers to people who don’t just want to buy a PC but craft their dream machines. Get in touch with us for a PC that caters to your specific requirements and budget.
With that in mind, let us focus on what brought us here: a comparison between assembled computers and pre-built computers.
A Comparison Between Assembled Computers And Pre-built Computers
» Price
In comparison, assembling and testing custom PCs does not require much labor, passing on the savings to the customer. Remember that the cost of specific parts on the market may influence the final price of your custom PC. For example, the high demand for the current generation of graphic cards has seen the component’s prices shot at incredible scales. This means that a custom PC builder will need to spend more to get hold of the GPU you want. That will undoubtedly lead to an increase in the cost of assembled computers.
» Component Flexibility
A custom PC is the clear winner here. With a pre-built PC, you are stuck with the manufacturer’s combination of features and components. Enter assembled PCs. When you choose PC & MAC Medics to assemble a machine for you, you enjoy the free rein to choose whichever components you think are the best for your needs. Not only that, but you also reduce or eliminate your investment in less essential things. That is how you get more value for your money.
For example, let us assume you are a video game nerd. You will want a combination of high RAM capacity and high-end processors. It is hard to find this combination in a pre-built machine. An assembled computer becomes your best bet here.
Sometimes, people will consider building a machine themselves. But this demands some PC component know-how. By having computer gurus like ourselves, PC & MAC Medics assemble your machine, you enjoy the peace of mind that only compatible parts for your needs will be used.
» Convenience
The convenience that accompanies pre-built computers is something most people appreciate. Here, we are talking about overall build quality, hardware & software testing, and after-sale services. You can set the machine up and running within minutes of your package arriving at your home. You only need to unpack everything from the box and connect the cables correctly.
No doubt building a PC is easier today, but you require some technical know-how to make a device that meets your specific demands. You must also install the appropriate software programs correctly. So many things can go wrong when assembling a PC yourself, including bent CPU pins, misplaced screws, incompatible SATA cables, etc. So, be ready to diagnose and troubleshoot issues.
Of course, expertise can ease the assembly process. At PC & MAC Medics, you meet engineers with vast experience assembling computers customized to our client’s needs and that offer an efficient and smooth experience. Whether you are looking for a home/business PC, gaming computer, or photo & video editing PC, rest assured that our team will deliver your dream machine.
» Warranty and Support
Another attraction of a pre-built PC is a centralized warranty. You get at least a one year parts warranty and 24/7 tech support.
When assembling your computer, you will likely purchase components from different retailers. Should parts fail, often, you will need to contact the manufacturer to process a return authorization. Note that it can take time to have your defective part repaired or replaced or even receive a refund.
However, component warranty tends to be longer than warranty for a pre-built OEM (original equipment manufacturer). For example, a warranty for a Lenovo laptop will hardly exceed one year unless you buy an extended warranty. However, most Intel CPUs carry a three-year warranty.
Custom PC Service FAQs
In the many years that we have been building computers for residents and businesses in LA and Ventura Counties, PC & MAC Medics engineers have heard and seen a ton of questions about custom PC services. This section has the answers you need.
Putting together a PC is both fun and rewarding. But you do not have to do it, especially if you lack the time or the technical know-how.
If you live in Ventura or LA County, turn to PC & MAC Medics for a custom-built computer that will surpass your expectations. You only need to tell us what exactly you want and leave us to find compatible parts and build your custom PC in no time.
The most important parts required for a custom PC include:
- Case
- Power supply
- Motherboard
- RAM (memory)
- Storage Device (HDD or SSD)
- Processor (with a cooling system)
Optional parts may include:
- GPU (highly recommended)
- Sound Card
- Disc Drive
Custom PC costs vary substantially, primarily depending on the customer’s needs. Engineers at PC & MAC Medics can assemble a standard PC for business or home use for as little as $300. A gaming PC can be as expensive as $2,000. Generally, the more specs you need, the higher the cost.
Custom PC Services Near Me
Building personalized, custom PCs and laptops is among the things we do best at PC & MAC Medics. We are a full-suite computer service provider serving individuals and businesses in Ventura and LA Counties. Here, we believe there is no need to go back to mainstream computers when you can have the best of both worlds. You get more RAM, faster hard drives, larger screens, better graphics cards, liquid cooling, and more so you can play games, create music, run your business or build apps better.
