Re: Dell computers: bad deal

<kegler@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:2vq102t3qv7oos3qbu6d973rjo4u2dhltm@xxxxxxxxxx
Home built PC's have
the disadvantage of having a myriad (if any) warranty plans since
you're dealing with a dozen or more different manufacturers.

That's true, but because home builders tend to buy better quality parts than
major manufacturers, they rarely have to deal with that myriad of
warranties. Whatever service the computer needs can be performed by the
builder.

Additionally, for those that want to, commercial manufacturers (as
well as many stores that resell them), offer extended warranty plans.

....and that is precisely the cost that is saved by someone building their
own computer. Anyone who has gone through the hassle of getting companies
like Dell to fix things according to their warranties knows that the cost is
more than the price they paid for the extended warranty.


At one time, I would agree that buying and assembling a computer was
cheaper and resulted in a better quality computer

It is not initially cheaper, but can be significantly cheaper over the life
of the computer. If a home builder can not choose better quality parts than
most major manufacturers, then they are definitely in the minority. Major
manufacturers like Dell focus on particular parts that are from known
brands, like video cards, but they will skimp on items that people don't pay
attention to. Unpopular or less-known brands of some parts are never
mentioned until you get the final manifest. A home builder generally buys
brands they prefer for everything.

As I have stated repeatedly, the majority of the financial savings come from
the home builder's familiarity with their hardware and the resulting new
ability to service their own computer issues. The savings are primarily
applicable to people who were previously in the habit of paying for extended
warranties or local computer shops to fix their PC's.

Additionally, at the speed technology is going, why spend hundreds
more on a home built PC?

If the home built computer actually costs hundreds more (for the same
quality of parts), then you shouldn't build one at home. Mine have never
cost hundreds more.

Luc


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