November 21, 2008
Our computer was bought the traditional way, we went to the store, the salesmen put me in a headlock then 30 minutes and two grand later I'm a PC. I thought about having my computer built next time, that way I could be part of the process and get what I want instead of deleting half the stuff they load my meager hard drive down with. Got any advice for this novice?
[question posted by gitfiddleplayer]
responses and comments:
I bought the PC new.It was ok for about 2 years,but after that it became slow.I hope I will buy a new one next year [Vennorex]
it´s no news that a computer became slow after you have used it for some time. it´s the same for all of us [ennasus59]
We had our first machine built to our specifications by a company in Texas. That was back in 1991. Since then, my husband has built or rebuilt every machine we've owned except the laptop I am typing on at the moment. I bought this Dell from my son almost 3 years ago when it was 3 years old. Don't think he could build a laptop. But he's great at keeping our PC's updated! He has done everyone my daughter has owned, except for the laptops we bought her two older teenagers when they finished high school. [Barb42]
Not really. happyBy the way, today was his birthday, so we went out to dinner and had a great steak! And we should be in bed!! [Barb42]
I worked with my geek. She talked and talked, comparing the pros and cons, and decided that I was just as well off with a Dell as a Gateway. No, the Apples weren't even considered.... [ElicBxn]
I have it built from our sponsor. The parts were all brand new that time so I think it's a mix to the options from your answer. It's a good deal though. It was 40% cheaper than its original price tag. [AlucardChristian]
Thanks, cost is becoming a big factor for me. [gitfiddleplayer]
If you buy the stuff online, go to newegg.com. Thats where I buy all my stuff. Now to your question. I built my computer, first built it about seven years ago. About three years ago my old motherboard went out, so bought a new motherboard, power supply, ram, video card, and all that and rebuilt it. I just recently put a new video card in, and I bought more ram last night. I wont ever buy a computer from a store. If you can have it built, have someone who knows what they are doing if you dont build it for you. Depending on if your a gamer or artist or not depends on how much you need. Gamers need higher end video cards and ram, so do artists, if your going to use it for like microsoft word and the internet and stuff like that dont need one quite as fast. [darkjedi]
Thanks jedi, I know you know about puters so thanks for the info. I'm not a gamer, just a typer. [gitfiddleplayer]
Our desktop was bought and brought home. When we got the laptops though we got in touch with my son's friend who now lives in Norway and has such good knowledge about computers, we got advice from him as to what we should get. So we ordered our laptops with the options we wanted but don't ask me what all because I have no idea. [tyc415]
I do not have any advice, but I am interested in seeing if someone else does. I have never thought of having one built for me. [GardenGerty]
All the cool kids are doing it. [gitfiddleplayer]
Mine is a second hand computer which I get through my friend.But it is some what new now.Because of my negligence to have a earth connection,my mother board just gone off and I had to change it to a new one.Then comes the hard disk.It once got struck up and I had a new one updating from 20GB to 80GB.Also,I have to change the SMPS for the new motherboard.So,it is now built new even it was old when I bought it. [srganesh]
Our computer was also bought new. Its performance has been satisfactory. But I mostly use my laptop. Its performance is excellent. [Daffodil20]
Thanks! I appreciate it. [gitfiddleplayer]
I bought mine brand new. The pc store where I got mine, offers several pc packages but I asked assistance from them to build my own pc because I have a budget to contend with and also because for sure, they have a better technical know-how which devices are compatible with another. You're the ones shelling out money so, I think you have to be in control of the negotiation for you to get what you really wanted. [brenbelmonte]
I agree, thanks man. [gitfiddleplayer]
the laptop is new... i bought it sealed and brand new. i think it would not be advisable to buy a 2nd hand laptop... but if you do know a lot of things about computers, i think you can build your own pc and just buy new parts. [chiyosan]
It was new. Got it at Best Buy. We would have preferred to have it built. We have a friend that does it. But it would cost more plus we had to put it on credit. Paid it off but at that time we needed one and sad to say money talks. If money wasn't an object it would definitely be built. Maybe the next one.blink [Ruthep]
i always build my desktops and do extensive research on my latptops then u get a good system [thecrazyjogger]
mine was built. it is a dtk & it's been a real good one. only things the guy i bought it from left town in the middle of the night if u get my meaning. [ANTIQUELADY]
he was such a nice guy to do buisness, very helpful, great personality & built a great computer for me. i never did know what happened. all i heard he walked out left all his equpment running & that was it. [ANTIQUELADY]
My computer was new when i bought it.Its an assembled computer.I prefer buying a branded pc because of quality.Its good to have a computer being built in front of you.It will give you knowledge about the parts.And how to troubleshoot loose connection problems.happyhappy [vicky30]
I had a bit of both - I bought mine from Dell where they have packages already together bu then you can customize it to suit you. I didn't really change it much from the set up but did add a couple of extras and removed some of the basics that I knew I would never use! x [frankiecesca]
i chose the specs for my unit at the office and at home. had to get the approval of our IT, of course, for my office computer. if you're familiar with the specifications of a computer, it's better to have it built. like, floppy drives are still part of the regular pre-built units being sold here. in my case, i had it replaced with a card reader. [myclique]
We bought our computer brandnew. It was expensive though. If I am a computer genius..that I would probably do...make my own. [carmelsuarez]
I bought my computer the way it is.. haha ^_^ It's much more expensive than building one myself.. hehe ^_^ But that's what we are paying for, convenience with no hard work.. lol =D According to my fren, he sets up his own PC, buys all the components on his own, creating a super pc, and the total amount he spent, is actually half and slightly more than half, of what i paid for my PC shocked Now that i have learnt my lesson, and if ever my pc were to break down one day, i will ask him for help, and also ask him to build one super PC for me too.. hehe [kun2349]
My best advice is to make friends with a computer geek who will be willing to help you and answer many of what he or she will consider to be stupid questions from a newbie. I have a friend who is a computer geek, so he always helps me. My first computer was built by him- with just the basics because I was pretty illiterate. As I learned and my needs changed, he helped me determine what I needed, picked it out and installed it for me. Now I have a laptop, which came loaded with useless software. He guided me through setting in up, helped me determine what I did and didn't need, and now it is my own custom version of a floor model. I've never had to deal with sales people or getting everything but what I need. My geek handles all that for me. [Sillychick]
Your geek, you make it sound so sweet, awe. [gitfiddleplayer]
We had ours built. My son sorted all that out. No way could i,i would mess up big time. It came from silicon group. We are lucky there is one near. The other is in Edinburgh. Good prices too & they are very helpfull. Plus they sell things like printers.£50 it cost for our epsom,printer & scanner. They were about £80 in PC shops like comet..I would say yes get it built [LoudnProud]
I've only purchased new laptops over the last five years because all of my home PCs have been given to me by people that download a bunch of viruses and buy a new desktop PC instead of formatting their harddrive and reloading their operating systems. I also get my upgrades by my brother-in-law who is an I.T. technician for the company he is working for and seems to have unlimited access to all kinds of new, up-to-date "goodies" that he keeps giving me every couple of weeks to make my PC better. At this point, I don't think there is anything that is on any of my desktop computers that is original, ...except maybe the power cord. [mrghill]
I bought my first computer new. I called Gateway and told them what I needed it for and they sold me a computer, printer and 3 useless years of internet service (because it would have been long distance to call) for $1300. That was back in 1999. I had that computer, running Windows 98, until March of last year. The computer I have now was one that I bought used/rebuilt. The computer geeks who sold it to me have a weekly radio show about computers, so they did a great job putting on it what I needed and leaving off what I don't. [kenzie45230]
i have bought most of mine from the store, had one put together for my son a couple of years ago, still had some stuff on it that we could have done without. [kianwa87]
i bought my computer new. unless things were really bad financially or i had no available credit on my credit cards i would not buy a used computer. it is just one of those things that i like to have brand new. but my next one may need to be used as we are getting rid of all our credit cards and have made a rule that unless it is for car repairs or medical emergencies we are no longer using them. [mikeysmom]
My computer was new, but not the latest model. My old computer had given up the ghost before I really wanted it to, so I had to get the one I have now. So we went into Future Shop and since I wanted to have one that I wanted to pay off within a year, I got a Compac Presario even though I put it on the three year payment plan. Then I decided after a year when it was paid for, to put money aside for the one I really wanted. [suspenseful]
I am just like you. I really don't know enough about them to sit and watch or to add what I need.....I am at someone's mercy! So I bought mine the traditonal way....and probably always will! [jillhill]
Mine was built brand new.. The store we got it built at is no longer open which is disappointing to me because I was wanting them to build me a new system for my son once tax return time rolls around. I'm very happy with my system and I would recommend to anybody to have a system built because they can tailor make it the way you want, like if you plan on using it for gaming or other types of media they will give you a great video & sound card just for that purpose and give you a good amount of memory to handle these applications & etc.. What I don't like about going to a place like Best buy to buy a computer is that they try to trick you into buying things for you're computer you really don't need then once you agree to all of these add-ons the price is usually jacked up another 100-500 dollars because of all the extra stuff you really don't need, I can understand buying a warranty for you're new computer and I'm willing to buy that, but not for extra things like a printer and a ipod & etc.. It's cheaper to buy that stuff separately and you won't be stuck paying for this stuff for 2 years . [cassandralynn]
Our service provider have a promo then. If we able the promo package, we will get free desktop. And that is why I got mine. Aside from I bought a brand new notebook. [izathewzia]
i alo have a pC myself, and i want to change to a new one though i just bought it last year, because the computer software is updating so rapidly, and i want mine to work perfectly. so i am thinking of buying a new one. Good luck [mengrufa]
Yes, my computer was brand new when I got it. [MizzLadyB08]
I had my computer built, and its a charm. Its actually just a Pentium IV (3.0 GHz) processor with 1.5 gb ram and an 80 gb hdd. But it is really fast, and its been about 3 years or so, since i built my computer. [gamergautam]
I built my own,and my daughters.I also built one for my niece,my sister and her boyfriend.I build some that I give to kids that wouldn't have one otherwise,and some I build to sell.People don't have to buy a new machine because the one they have is slow,there are many ways to clean up the hard drive and reinstall windows to make the computer run smooth again. [jasmine0728]
I bought computer already build, all i have to do is use them after buying, i dont know how to built a computer so it is good for me to buy computer that is already built. I know someone who build his own computer and he is very good in it. The cost is a little cheaper and you can choose what kind of spec you like. But still i go for ready to use computer for convinient. Happy postinghappy [Margarit]
I built my own computer. I buy parts and peripherals like motherboards, memory, Harddisk, processor and etc and assemble it. I want my computer custom made to my own specifications. And in fact, I save a lot because my computer is high end and the price is low because I have many friends in computer stores that gave my dealers prices. My computer is 4 years old and it is still ok. It's pretty obvious that it will slow down since it is old. I hope next year I can buy new one and replace this computer of mine. [benallos]
Well we bought our computer the traditional way too, actually we just had to buy a new tower, our old one was just too old, and we've updated it so many times that it just wasn't worth doing it anymore, and it was getting really slow. We have a friend that is a computer genious, and we asked him if it would be easier to get one built or buy one from a store, and he said for the amount of money we would spend and for what we do with our computer it would be easier just buying one, he said it would cost us way more money for him to build one, so we decided to buy one instead. [walijo2008]
We bought ours new, but we had it built . We bought it from Dell, and you can order a computer there and have it built to your own specifications and needs. My husband is a systems anylist and he did the ordering and ordered the computer to be the way he wanted it. Don't ask me how he ordered it or what he had put on it or in it or what ever, because I honestly don't know. I only use it, I have nothing to do with the way it is. [ladym33]
I have never owned a totally new computer before. Most were bought used or given to me. I do though have to delete things I don't ever use. Dell lets you built your computer the way you want it and have what you want in it and probably cheaper then the two grand you put on the one the salesman sold you. I am thinking of purchasing a laptop though I have been wanting one of those for a long time. Sorry no advice I'm a true novice when it comes to computers. [mtdewgurl74]
Sadly, I got it premaid from Dell. For the record, Dell sucks. HP all the way. [rogue13xmen13]
with my first pc that was given to me (pre-loved). My second computer was boughth new from the store and it only lasted me 3yrs and when I went shopping for a replacement all the pc's were very expensive and I wasn't keen on parting with my money. I then found out that this 'Reverse garbage " place I got to hasd heaps of computers that they fix up (replace hard drives etc..and they have proper technicians) and then they resell them from $100 and up so I bought one from them and it is better than the store bought one I had. They even threw in a surge protector for me so. I love my second hand computer I tell everyone about it LOL I will only ever buy computers through them now and its good for the environment too. [chapcity]
It sounds great! I am using a DIY computer and it works well.I love DIY: I change my OS and software frequently, I have just installed Ubuntu Linux instead of Windows XP/Vista on my computer,and it works well.Here is my blog with some pieces on Ubuntu:http://ovi618.blogspot.com/ [nocovi]
Thanks, I'l check it out. [gitfiddleplayer]
I have not bought a computer IN a store since I was a sales manager for a long ago store retailer, ComputerLand. I'm fairly lucky having a son in the industry. When I get ready to buy online, my son advises me of the configuration I need and then I buy through the manufacturers website. We also search for manufacturer discount coupons. This works terrific for me but I realize not everyone has s relative in the industry to help them with this. But in general, for the specifics of your question 1) either learn to say no in a way that you can feel confident about it or 2) search for a computer company in your town who is primarily interested in service but also happens to build computers too or 3) find a friend to go with you who can say NO. [patweber]
i love my little laptop. i've had tons of pc's come and go that were desktops. every time you move, then its a hassle. this time it was easy to move my pc. just in the case and go. anywhere.happy [bunnybon7]
I like my laptop too, I'm starting to realize a desk top is too much to lug around. [gitfiddleplayer]
Mine was actually a gift. A laptop straight out of the box, I am hoping to get a new one soon which I think I am going to have special built so I get the things I need and use, and none of the stuff I never use. [KMNash]
My (our) laptop was a gift from my wife's work, its pretty handy. [gitfiddleplayer]
I bought my computer at Circuit City. Before this one, I tended to order Gateway computers and tell them what I wanted on it. Actually, I think it's less expensive to just walk in a store and pick out a computer and it isn't that difficult to uninstall what you don't want. If I have any trouble getting rid of any of the programs, I call the 800 number and get help with it. I'v already done that twice with my Sony Vaio. Take care. [PearlGrace]
Mine when i bought the original pc was new back in 2003 it was all parts and i built it. Since then I've replaced everything once or twice upgrading or replacing a broken part...theres been 2 motherboards since, two processors, 3 modems,2 new video cards, i've also added new hard drives and a tv tuner, a new case as of Saturday (my dad dropped the original down the stairs during my last move so i couldn't move it from its spot without having to reattach things afterwards. [saundyl]
Hello! I never built my own computer such as DIY. I think it's interesting to have your own built like Dell or other companies. The already built can be cheaper options. You may want to try out making your own to your specifications. That can always help you. I never really did that, but I can see how it would be nice to do. Have a nice day. [callarse1]
Well, all of my Computers have been bought from a Store. My last 2 have been the best ones so far, and actually even though the one I am on now is quite a few yrs. old, I would not trade it until it goes completely. Yes, a lot of times, they load you with programs you do not need, and the ones you wish you had are sometimes expensive as well. When I bought my laptop from Dell, I was able to have them load some of the programs I wanted, etc. in advance and then pay for them on Credit so that is nice. My sister had someone she knew build her her Computer, and is having no issues with it, but I do not know someone I can trust to build me one, or even work on my Computer if I have a minor issue with it, so I have to keep on doing it this way from now on as well. [KrauseHome]
Neither, I bought mine second hand from someone at work, who worked in the information technology department. It came with everything apart from a screen. To begin with, I had an old-fashioned cathode-ray tube monitor, but just under two years ago, I got a 19 inch flat screen monitor. It runs very well and I have no immediate plans to upgrade or replace. This set-up cost under £700 and so was no where near $2000! The pound/ dollar rate has yo-yoed a lot in that time, so difficult to be precise! As to advice, it really depends on what type of usage you are going to have. Laptops seem very cheap and reasonable. They are easily portable, so you can take them with you almost anywhere, what with the wide availability of mobile internet. Against laptop, are the fact, they are not so Ergonomic and user friendly, in that it can be easier to get various repetitive strain injury and muscle strain etc in that the seating situation is not always so good. Hope that is of some help! ninjaninjaninja [dreamhealer]
We did the same thing with our first computer, we bought into all that hype about we would need this software and that software, but we only used a portion of the junk they had it bogged down with. Our second one was given to us and we took it to a computer shop and had it wiped out and put what we wanted back on it. It really makes a difference when you don't have a bunch of stuff on it that takes up memory and never gets used. I use my card studio, excel, and word other than that I don't need a whole lot of extras and if you do need something it isn't like you cant go on Ebay and have it the next day. Be Blessed! [change1life]
Actually, when it comes to computer, it's my hubby who does the thing. He bought it the same way with you. But I have a friend who is a computer expert and he said, it is better to buy computer that is having it built. I mean he used to buy the parts and install it himself. with that, he knows what is in there and how it works. I plan to hire him to help me next time I'll buy new.happyhappy [Bebs08]
I built it. got the parts from the stores nad built it at home iwth my friends and it was afun experience and they are WAY BTTER THEN THE NORMAL PC'S [thecrazyjogger]
I've had two computers. Both were Gateway's and purchased new. My laptop that I use now is almost four years old. I use them until they aren't any good any longer...lol. I have no advice on getting one built. [sunnflr]
My computer came loaded with what my son wanted on it. He gave it to me when he bought a new one. I am blessed because I did not have to be put in the head lock for 2K. [teapotmommommerced]
I was only for 10 minutes, at least I didn't tap out right away. [gitfiddleplayer]