If you don't want to go through the hassle of building a PC, you might consider a prebuilt PC. Before you do that, here's a quick guide on things to consider when buying prebuilt PCs.
Check the Parts
Companies that sell prebuilt PCs like to market the major parts. They will brag about the CPU and GPU. But sometimes, they skimp out on the other components.
A good prebuilt PC should have the exact model for every component available. If they only show what brand the graphics card or CPU is, but the power supply isn't listed, that's a red flag.
Each part doesn't have to be the most known brand, but you should be able to track it down if there are any issues.
When you build a PC, each part has its warranty. For prebuilt machines, ensure the computer is covered as a whole, rather than as individual parts.
Desktop computers allow you to repair the system as needed. You want to make sure your prebuilt lets you do that. If components aren't easily removable, that's a red flag.
Let's say you're ready to upgrade some things. Are there open RAM slots? Space for additional drives? Is the motherboard in your prebuilt capable of handling a CPU upgrade?
Check the Seller
Wherever you buy your prebuilt, ensure it gets the best reviews possible. Check what people are saying about the company on social media.
Look for unboxing videos or pictures of how the machine is sent. Does the seller protect the device? How easy is it to purchase machines from their website?
Are there multiple options for different budgets? Does this company offer financing?
Every PC should have a full component list and warranty information.
Here are some companies that specialize in high-end prebuilt PCs:
Does it Pass the Test?
Companies specializing in prebuilt computers will run 24-hour burn-in tests on each PC they put together.
This is a stress test where all components are run at their maximum levels to make sure cooling is effective.
This also ensures the computer is stable and there are no DOA (dead on arrival) components. For example, if the power supply fails right out of the box, they will ship it back.
If you're not sure a burn-in test was done on your machine, you can run one yourself.
If anything is off, you can send the PC back.
Wrapping Up
Check the parts of the PC. Make sure they're not cheap, somewhat reputable, and easy to replace.
Check the seller of the PC. Look for reviews, social media engagement, and even endorsements from other gamers or streamers.
And every part should be thoroughly stress tested so there's no doubt your prebuilt is built to last.
