Pricing policy for finished PC assemblies and individual components

Price is a determining factor for many, so the first step is to find out which option is more profitable for the user. Manufacturers and stores offer a convenient solution - a complete system unit, ready for use.

Let's determine the difference in cost between a finished PC and self-assembly from components using a specific example:

Component Purchase separately (price) Ready assembly (price)
Processor (CPU) AMD Ryzen 5 Cezanne 5500 OEM PC Artline Gaming X47 X47v52Win
Motherboard MSI B450M-A PRO MAX null
RAM Kingston Fury Beast DDR4 2x8Gb null
Video card (GPU) MSI GeForce RTX 4060 VENTUS 2X BLACK 8G OC null
Storage (SSD) Kingston NV2 SNV2S/1000G 1 TB null
Power Supply Unit (PSU) Chieftec Core BBS-600S null
Frame QUBE Borey null
Cooling system Deepcool GAMMAXX 300 (DP-MCH3-GMX300) null
operating system To be purchased separately null
Total from 28,134 UAH. from 36,114 UAH

For comparison, we selected available components (prices are current at the time of writing), but far from being at a budget level, from trusted brands and with optimal characteristics. The table shows that buying a computer in parts is much cheaper, but do not forget that this does not take into account the OS. Moreover, you can purchase all components in one store using the appropriate website functionality, which is much more convenient in terms of delivery and subsequent warranty service.

Optimization level for user requirements

It is worth noting that manufacturers of ready-made assemblies often do not indicate the exact characteristics of the installed components (SSD speed, video card or RAM manufacturer, power supply power). It will be difficult to evaluate the performance of a PC (for example, in a specific game). When choosing a home computer for watching movies, working with a browser, office programs and other basic functions, there is no point in wasting time selecting parts and studying all the nuances, so assembled and configured PCs will be a good option. It is better to equip the gaming machine yourself, because this is the only way to achieve optimal performance. For gaming assemblies, it is important not only the general compatibility of individual components, but also the maximum efficiency of interaction between certain components - processor and video card, processor and RAM, video card and RAM. By assembling the computer in parts, you yourself decide the issue of cooling (air or liquid coolant) and can provide for a further upgrade.

We already have good examples of builds for popular games:

In any case, the option of purchasing in parts will be more profitable in every sense, but only if you have the appropriate knowledge, which we will talk about next.

Gaming Computers

Availability of necessary knowledge and experience

The process of assembling a PC is perhaps one of the most delicate moments that baffles most users. To purchase a ready-made computer in a store, you only need to consult with a salesperson who will help you choose one that suits your requirements. Many stores even provide delivery and connection. To assemble a system unit yourself, you need to go through two important stages - selecting and installing components. It is difficult to do this without experience, since it is necessary to understand the principle of operation and have knowledge about the compatibility of this or that equipment. Otherwise, there is a risk of buying a useless set of goods. As a result, the computer simply will not start, and some parts will be physically impossible to install - the connectors will not fit. Any mechanical failure can lead to component failure, and the warranty usually does not cover such cases.

In general, buying a PC in parts can be an interesting and educational experience if you approach the issue responsibly. If you have such a desire, we recommend using the guide for self-assembling the system unit. If you don’t have time to study all the nuances, then it’s better to buy a ready-made PC.

Desktop

Warranty conditions and repairability

In terms of warranty, buying a computer in parts definitely wins. Firstly, the warranty period for individual components is usually longer than for the complete system unit. Secondly, in the event of a breakdown, it is enough to replace a certain part in the store, which also provides certain advantages. The user does not need to think about transporting a bulky system unit. If shipped domestically, shipping costs will be significantly lower. An undoubted advantage is also the possibility of further work with a PC. It is enough to temporarily replace the spare part by taking advantage of your rights, which are described in the Law of Ukraine “On the Protection of Consumer Rights” (Article 8, paragraph 9). However, there is a fly in the ointment in this ointment - the user needs to determine the cause of the malfunction himself if this service is not provided by the seller.

If you purchase a ready-made computer, upgrading it will not always be possible. Some stores put seals on the case, violation of the integrity of which leads to a waiver of warranty obligations. You should ask the seller about the possibility of upgrading components and maintaining the warranty before purchasing. The entire PC is sent for repair, so the user will not be able to work until the investigation is completed. Another important point concerns data confidentiality. When sending the entire system unit under warranty, personal information (bank accounts, passwords, correspondence) may be viewed by third parties.

Gaming Laptops

Operating system installation and basic setup

The operating system is necessary for the logical interconnection and functioning of components. If assembled in parts, installation concerns fall entirely on the user. When purchasing a ready-made PC, you can choose the appropriate OS version, as well as many other parameters, thanks to the functionality of the site.

It is also important to take into account the need to initially configure system parameters during self-assembly, which requires certain knowledge or time to study. A ready-made PC from a store is usually fully prepared for use: drivers are installed, a minimum set of programs are installed, device settings are made).

A similar approach in matters of OS, programs and settings is used in laptops.

Let's sum it up

We looked at all the features of purchasing a finished PC and individual components with subsequent assembly, so we can determine the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Buying a computer in parts

Pros:

  • Costs less
  • Maximum adapted to specific tasks
  • Extended warranty period
  • Ease of replacement (upgrade) and repair of components

Minuses:

  • You need to independently select compatible components and assemble the PC
  • Requires installation of operating system, additional programs, basic setup
  • In the event of a breakdown, you will need to determine the cause of the failure

Buying a ready-made PC

Pros:

  • Does not require knowledge or experience
  • OS installation and configuration are performed by the store (possibly for a fee)

Minuses:

  • There is no optimization for specific tasks, performance degradation in certain games is possible
  • In the event of a breakdown, the user is temporarily left without a PC
  • Shipping costs more
  • During repairs, there is a risk of theft of personal data from the drive