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Buying a store bought computer or building your own really comes down to this - experience.

For someone that knows everything about a motherboard, processor speed, SATA this and EIDE that, then he or she will likely build one of their own to get exactly what they desire.

But for the average consumer, including myself, all that is required is for it to do its job. Therefore buying one in the store is a better choice.

Most people use computers for the basics: surfing the web, checking email, banking online or creating text documents. Or on a slightly higher level, editing photographs or videos. For these purposes a store bought computer works perfectly fine. Major manufacturers such as HP, Dell and Gateway offer superb deals on bundled packages that include all the peripherals needed for a quick and effective computer system. Not only this, but each component is covered under warranty. Some 'techies' will shudder at the thought of purchasing a computer from a big box retailer such as Best Buy; but for no real good reason. $600 can get you a great entry-level system, and in many cases with a monitor also. A pretty good deal! Look even further, and you can get a refurbished model for less...covered by the same manufacturer's warranty.

If you're into programming or other forms of serious computing, building one may be right for you. However you will endure the risk of glitches with a 'mutt' computer (eg. parts not compatible) and the chances of malfunctioning are higher. But then again, you know what you're doing.

For the rest of the world, check your local retailer for a great deal and leave the building to someone else. My three year old refurbished Compaq hasn't let me down yet.

Learn more about this author, Dean Holmes.
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