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Are computer trade shows the cheapest way to get cheap customized computers?

I'm looking to get a good new computer but I'm hearing that computer shows will customize a pc for you and it would be way cheaper than purchasing straight from Dell or HP, or another retailer. Is this true? I'm looking for shows in the PA, MD, NJ area if so. Any links to any places on customizing cpu's?

Public Comments

1. I gave my daughter $1000 to spend, and she built me an awesome custom computer for $800 using components from Tigerdirect.com. I let her keep the extra $200 for doing the work. An awful lot of college students can do exactly the same thing for you. Put up a notice on the board at your nearest college, or call one of the professors and ask for a referral. Some of these kids really get off on it...all you have to do is tell them your specs and your budget.
2. If I were you I would get it from a dealer, not from one of those shows you never know what you are getting, because when the show is over they are gone and you are stuck if it goes bad. Wal-mart has great deals on computers. I would go there. Hopes this helps
3. Most places will customize some parts of the computer. However, a lot of people can build them so much cheaper than you will ever find from a major brand dealer and it will be completely customized. Either that, or if you have an existing computer it would be cheaper to simply upgrade the machine. Anyone who knows what they are doing would be able to do this for you. The components one can get separately are often the exact same or even better than what they would throw together on the assembly line at Dell or HP. Check out http://www.terian.com. My husband works there as the manager or building the custom computers. They have great pricing on the machines. He built a great gaming machine for about $1200 with all the best components they had. Or you can contact him at http://www.coregamehost.net
4. The truth is that building a custom PC is NEVER quite as cost effective as buying one from one of the Big Brand retailers. Why? They buy in bulk. You CAN save money, but theres always a price. Most people just want as BIG processor, Big drive, lotsa Ram, etc. But the cost adds up when you start factoring in quality. Look at power supplies. I can get a cheap decent one for 50-60 buck. Truth is, a QUALITY supply cost more. Most people skimp on this thinking the tag on it saying its 500 watts is enuff. HA! Same thing with mainboards. I'm seeing a LOT of socket 775 boards that are toast. You learn what to steer clear of, and what to buy. Take drives. Right now, I wouldn't have a Maxtor. Used to luv em. Now they are failure prone. Pc shows are OK. but the dude is right, what pieces are in there? You need to do some research before you jump in. There is no 'cheap' you get what you pay for. If a deal is cheap, then theres sumpthin' in it that IS cheap.