prompter: When is it more cost effective for someone to build their own PC versus buying a computer already built?

assistant: Building your own PC can be more cost effective compared to buying a pre-built one under several circumstances:

Customization: Building your own PC allows you to choose and purchase individual components that suit your specific needs and budget, whereas pre-built PCs often come with features and components that you may not need or want.

Upgradability: Building your own PC gives you the ability to easily upgrade components as your needs change, whereas upgrading a pre-built PC can be more difficult and often requires you to replace entire systems.

Price: In some cases, building your own PC can be cheaper than buying a pre-built one. This is especially true if you already have some of the components you need, such as a hard drive or memory, or if you are willing to buy older or used components or are able to find the parts that you need that are on sale or clearance.

However, building your own PC can also be more expensive if you make mistakes or if you have to purchase tools or equipment that you don't already have. Additionally, building your own PC can also be more time-consuming and require a certain level of technical knowledge and experience.

Ultimately, the cost-effectiveness of building your own PC versus buying a pre-built one depends on several factors, including your budget, the components you need, your level of technical expertise, and the amount of time you are willing to invest.

assistant: There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to build your own PC or to buy a pre-built one. Here are some of the key considerations:

Cost: Building your own PC can be more cost-effective if you are able to purchase components at a good price and if you have the time and knowledge to put everything together yourself. However, if you factor in the cost of the tools and any potential mistakes, it can sometimes be more expensive than simply buying a pre-built computer.

Technical knowledge: Building your own PC requires a good understanding of hardware and the ability to troubleshoot potential problems. If you lack this knowledge, it may be more cost-effective to buy a pre-built computer.

Time: Building your own PC can be time-consuming, especially if you are new to the process. On the other hand, if you enjoy the process of putting a computer together and have the time to do so, it can be a rewarding experience.

Warranty: When you build your own PC, you typically don't get a warranty for the individual components. On the other hand, pre-built computers usually come with a warranty, which can provide peace of mind and protect against potential problems.

Customization: Building your own PC allows for complete customization and the ability to select specific components to meet your needs and budget. Pre-built computers often come with a set configuration and limited upgrade options.

Ultimately, the decision to build your own PC or to buy a pre-built one depends on your individual needs, budget, and level of technical expertise.

prompter: Can I build my own laptop?

assistant: Yes, it is possible but less common. Since there is less space to work with, the build process can be more difficult, and more care needs to be spent making sure different components are compatible with each other space-wise.

Framework is a recent player in this field that offers DIY laptops where you as consumer have the power to upgrade, customize and repair them yourself. You choose which specifications you need for your use case, framework ships the components and you put them together yourself. You can also get a prebuilt Framework laptop for a premium price, but still has the added benefit of being easy to upgrade, customize & repair whenever necessary.

assistant: Depending on your needs, you may want to build your own Laptop if you have special requirements, such as high-performance or special customization needs. You can have a laptop built for you using a laptop customization service. But it may not be the most cost-effective option.
Building your own laptop requires a level of technical knowledge that is similar to building a PC.  

Typically, you will need the following parts 
 - Barebone Laptop
A half-assembled personal computer with a laptop case, power supply, motherboard,  keyboard, webcam, cooling system, etc. 
 - CPU
- RAM
 - Storage devices
 - etc.

You need to make sure that the CPU, RAM, and other devices fit into the case and work with the motherboard.
The parts are selected according to your budget and needs.

assistant: The differences with a laptop are the portable power supply, i.e. the battery, and the lighter weight. All components fit into the case. This may cost more. And it is likely less upgradeable.
What else would you like?

assistant: Building your own PC is the best solution for those who want full control over every aspect of their build. It provides the most thorough customization options, from the CPU to the fans and lighting. From this perspective, it is generally cheaper to build a heavily customized PC yourself rather than contracting someone else to do it, however it is likely to cost more than a basic pre-built PC.

Here are some of the top benefits of building a PC:
      1. Cheaper Long-Term. Initially, building a PC is typically more expensive than buying a pre-built machine. When purchasing components individually, however, they are often better in quality than the bulk-ordered components that go into pre-built computers. This leads to an 
          overall better build quality that makes the computer have a longer lifespan. Building a PC will actually save you money in the long run, because you will likely not need to replace or repair components as often as with a pre-built.
      2. Easier to Fix. When a component fails inside a PC you built, it is easier to identify because you are more familiar with each part. When you buy individual computer components, they often come with extra spare parts that pre-built computers do not. These additional parts 
          can sometimes save you from costly repair bills or unnecessary tech support visits.
      3. Better Overall Quality. If peak performance is your goal, build a PC. Building a PC allows you to handpick every component that goes into your machine. When you have total control over your computer's internal components, the final product can have a better overall build 
           quality. Pre-built PCs often focus on just a CPU or GPU and fill the rest of the computer with cheaper, less desirable components.

Building a PC can also be a rewarding experience that will help to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the deeper workings of your PC.

prompter: You say that it is actually cheaper to build it myself, but I don't know anything about PC. Rather, I don't know anything related to electrics! I would spend probably 1 week just to figure out what are the correct cables. What should I do?