PC Barebones

A barebone computer is a half-assembled platform that consists of a case with a power supply, a motherboard preinstalled into the system case, and a cooling system. Barebone computers are designed in any standard form factor, or also, non-standard way, out of widely available hardware parts. The purchaser of such a platform only has to equip it with a CPU, RAM, hard drive and additional input/output devices depending on his/her own needs.

The main advantage of getting a barebone computer is the cheap price and the flexibility to customize the computer to suit your needs. In addition, you can save the hassle of assembling all the computer parts and at the same way choose the parts that you want to install.

A barebone computer is not for everyone. Sometimes a complete computer will work better. Based on these advantages and disadvantages, you can decide whether a barebone computer or a complete computer is better. An advantage of a barebone computer is that you have more control over the configuration. Although many computer dealers offer to do the customization for you, the range of components is usually limited to a few hard drive sizes or video card selections. With a barebone computer, you can buy the needed components from the same store, a different one or use an existing part.

The downside of a barebone computer is you have to do more work on your part by installing and testing the components. Of course that may be what you want for the learning experience. Another downside is that you may end up paying more for all the parts than if it were pre-assembled. However, if you go with the high quality components that produce a good system, then the extra cost will always be worth it.

That being said, a complete desktop computer costs less most of the time but corners are often cut in the manufacturing process. Usually, video and audio are integrated into the motherboard. The video memory may be shared with main memory, reducing your overall available memory. The power supply may not be adequate if you decide to upgrade to a more powerful video card later. These are a few of the ways computer manufacturers save costs.