to build or not to build

[Doug]

Looking into replacing my very old linux box. Putting together the parts
I noticed that I could flat out purchase a CyberpowerPC unit with
somewhat better specs (Faster processor and larger hard drive) for about
$100 less than the system I am building.

I have heard some mixed reviews of CyberpowerPC system. Leaning toward
the bad. Anyone have personal experience with them. This will end up as
a liux box not windows. With the CyberpowerPC I do get a copy of Vista
32bit not likely to use it but may leave it in as a dual boot in case of
problems.

 

[James]

Looking into replacing my very old linux box. Putting together the parts
I noticed that I could flat out purchase a CyberpowerPC unit with
somewhat better specs (Faster processor and larger hard drive) for about
$100 less than the system I am building.

I have heard some mixed reviews of CyberpowerPC system. Leaning toward
the bad. Anyone have personal experience with them. This will end up as
a liux box not windows. With the CyberpowerPC I do get a copy of Vista
32bit not likely to use it but may leave it in as a dual boot in case of
problems.

You don't mention if you plan to go with Intel or AMD. In either case
their components are of better quality than Dell, HP, or Sony.
Motherboard choices are somewhat limited but good overall. The default
PSU may not be the greatest; consider upgrading.


Myself, I'd roll my own. If the additional cost is as little as $100
over building I can see why some might go with CyberpowerPC.

FYI: Asus has been using oddball onboard NICs. If you don't already have
one the Linksys LNE100TX and the 3Com 3C905 work with just about any OS.

 

[Doug]

You don't mention if you plan to go with Intel or AMD. In either case
their components are of better quality than Dell, HP, or Sony.
Motherboard choices are somewhat limited but good overall. The default
PSU may not be the greatest; consider upgrading.


Myself, I'd roll my own. If the additional cost is as little as $100
over building I can see why some might go with CyberpowerPC.

FYI: Asus has been using oddball onboard NICs. If you don't already have
one the Linksys LNE100TX and the 3Com 3C905 work with just about any OS.

Looking at AMD either x2-6400 or Phenom X4 9550
The intel q6600 might be an alternate.

 

[geoff]

Leo LaPorte recommends buying because PCs are so cheap now. However, I
build because I like to do it and I know what is in the machine.

A PC may have a lower price but you usually do not know where they cheaped
out, slower RAM, HDD, processor, etc. It is easier for me to build and have
more confident about the hardware.

--g

 

[Matt]

Looking into replacing my very old linux box. Putting together the parts
I noticed that I could flat out purchase a CyberpowerPC unit with
somewhat better specs (Faster processor and larger hard drive) for about
$100 less than the system I am building.

I have heard some mixed reviews of CyberpowerPC system. Leaning toward
the bad. Anyone have personal experience with them. This will end up as
a liux box not windows. With the CyberpowerPC I do get a copy of Vista
32bit not likely to use it but may leave it in as a dual boot in case of
problems.

If you get Windows, you will very hard-pressed to save any money by
building.