I'm in the market for a new computer too. My old one's vacuum tubes keep blowing out.
How much money can you save by building your own vs. buying a similar one from Dell?
ra
The savings can be several hundred dollars -- perhaps much more perhaps less depending upon the choices that are made. The advantages IMO really focus on higher quality components plus several hundred dollars in savings and greater future upgradability (fewer propritary components). Disadvantages can be the occasional compatability issue that can usually be prevented with some research. The rare (but it does happen) DOA component that has to be returned. A good vendor is important with this route.
The Alienware and Falcon systems carry a super premium price point. Ouch! is right
They have some exotic stuff like liquid cooling and fancy cases, but these can also be DIY for less. [I think I see that in Mr. Black's Hard Core system
]
Charon