When considering acquiring a new computer, many often wonder if it is better to build from scratch or buy pre-made. For the right type of person, building from scratch is the superior choice, both financially and to ensure that the computer you get is exactly what you want. While saving on hardware and software costs are just a few obvious benefits, even more money can be saved in less obvious ways.

Building your own custom PC is most often less expensive than buying one at your local retailer or online. When you decide to build your own PC, you get to choose which components you need and which you can live without " unlike a pre-built PC, you're not paying for hardware you don't need or want. If you're interested in building a PC for gaming, then you probably don't need a SD card reader, for instance. When you buy a ready-made PC, this will probably be included, along with several other parts which you don't want but add to the price.

You'll also save on labor. Spending just a few hours of your time assembling your PC could shave lots off of the total cost. Assembling your own computer also has the benefit of teaching you how everything is assembled, knowledge that pays off should components require replacement later. If you're familiar with where everything goes and how it all connects, you may not need paid support to replace a worn-out drive or video card later.

Another often large expense with pre-built computers is that required for the software shipped with them. While Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) often get discounted rates for the software they provide, those costs are still passed on to you. If you have an extra licensed copy of Microsoft Windows lying about, or if you plan on running a different operating system than whatever is provided by the manufacturer, this cost is an unnecessary burden. Even if you do choose to run the provided OS, it often ships with extra applications that you may not need, applications for which you are still paying.

There are, of course, disadvantages to building your own PC. Lots of research is necessary to ensure that the parts you are assembling are of good quality and compatible. If any support is available during the process, it is likely expensive and difficult to find. Also, what support there is will only be available from the provider of your operating system rather than from a local vendor. If you're knowledgeable about technology, though, or even if you're mechanically adept enough to follow directions well, many resources are available to help. There are, for instance, numerous how-to videos on Youtube demonstrating many aspects of PC assembly.

Even taking the above into account, there are other less obvious ways of saving more money when building your own PC. First, shop around. Since you need not purchase all parts from a single supplier, take the time to research the best deals. Next, re-use old parts if you can. If your new PC is intended to replace an older one, you may be able to scavenge components from the older computer rather than purchasing them new.

It's not as complicated to build a computer as you may think. Its easy to find parts, tutorials and other resources are readily available and for those who enjoy a little challenge in their do it yourself projects will find this to be an educational and rewarding endeavor.