I've never bought a factory desktop computer as I'm an avid gamer and require performance, and found its cheaper to build (and manage warranties) than it is to buy one outright. Not only that, but my systems last longer due to the custom hardware. My last system lasted 5 years and was handed down to my kids when I upgraded after using it for just over 2 years myself.

The last computer I built is the one I have here with me in Iraq, and while I could afford more expensive components I chose what I knew would work versus top end hardware that might just end up being destroyed by the large amounts of fine dust we have over here.

Running Win XP64 on top of 4GB of RAM, a single 1GB video card, and an AMD 3.2GHz dual core will handle all the apps and games I need.


The added plus is I get to stay away from the abomination known as Vista.




Kris