Any computer experts?

[XTRazzer]

Originally Posted by JE3146

You're gaining quality components that you hand pick and a clean OS installation that's free of bloatware....

Exactly the same reasons I build my desktops. With the added bonus that I go with a bigger than required power supply to permit future upgrades.

Many manufacturers put the minimum power supply required to run the computer when it leaves the factory. So, when you want a new video card in two years you'll also be buying a new power supply. If you really hit bad luck you'll also be buying adapters for the proprietary motherboard connectors.

I bought an HP laptop a few years back and spent at least 12 hours removing the factory-installed junk that I didn't want. Using this example with a rate of $20/hour for my time, that gives me an extra $240 to justify building a desktop.