Buying Computer Parts!

Which parts do I buy? Which are the best?
If you click on the "Parts" List, you will see a list of the parts we need to build our PC. You will also see exactly which parts we chose for our PC and a list of manufacturers we recommend. Use this as a guide when you are choosing your parts.

Where is the best place to buy parts?
There are many good places to buy computer parts. One option is to go to a large computer retail store in your area; the support is usually relatively good and most provide good exchange policies. The trade-off is that you will pay a little more than you would in other places. Sometimes you can pay a lot more.

Most towns have smaller stores that sell and repair computer equipment. These are not large retail stores, but instead usually occupy an office suite in a strip mall. Regardless of location, such stores are often cheaper and can provide individual attention. Their hardware is often retail packaged from the manufacturer, but they also sell OEM hardware, which is usually wrapped plainly and has very little documentation. This is generally good hardware and costs a lot less money. However, if you feel you should have documentation, you should not buy OEM hardware.

The third alternative is Computer Shows. Most good-sized cities have computer shows nearby. These shows are like swap meets or flea markets. Computer parts vendors show up to sell their merchandise and because there are many vendors selling the same item, competition is very fierce. This is good for you, because you will be able to buy lots of products at deep discounts. The only negative about computer shows is that service can become a problem. If you need to exchange something or have a problem, it might be difficult for you to contact a vendor. For this reason, we recommend you only make purchases from vendors who have a store somewhere nearby. That way after the show, they can be easily contacted for an exchange if necessary. Another tip is always to buy name-brand products