I built my desktop. It cost me significantly more than one off the shelf. Components andsoftware were expensive, even though I shopped around. It’s a pain in the behind too – of course I’m my own tech support. That said, it’s a sweet machine when it’s running on all cylinders.
If I had to do it again on a budget, I’d go with a laptop. I would consider getting a Macbook Pro. I just don’t think the stuff off the shelf at Bestbuy has enough oomf. I have a Sager and it rocks…but it was expensive.
