Build a PC

Branded computers can offer both value and performance, the parts used can be powerful and not very expensive, and you can switch on and start work. Yet parts are often short-spec in one place or another. Sadly you'll often get a performance "bottleneck" such as a slow graphics card, only a basic amount of memory, or a slim line motherboard with too few upgrade slots. Luckily, computers are surprisingly easy to build. If you can afford the time to plan and build your own machine, you can design a system more targeted toward your own use.

Gaming computers are some of the most expensive consumer computers out there. However, building your own computer can save you money, will give you a better computer, will help you to become intimate with your machine's components and workings, and will be easier to upgrade and repair in the future. In addition, many components have better warranties you will find with complete computers. RAM, for example, typically carries a lifetime warranty. You can get all your components for cheap from online retailers like TigerDirect, Mwave,Newegg, or ZipZoomfly. Through this guide, you will learn how to make a powerful gaming computer for little over a grand.

~ Christopher Olsen / DrKBlz

Illustration: Jason Lee