With a brand-name computer, you don't need to go through the trouble of doing much research, and deciding which component best fits your needs, neither do you have to worry about what cards are compatible with which motherboards, etc. You don't have to be a computer expert in order to make sure that you're getting the best machine for your needs. Inexperienced users will also find the software packages that come with brand-name computers very convenient, because they won't have to install anything, neither will they have to search for an operating system, an office suite, etc. The fact that the computer already comes ready to use makes all the difference for some people.
Technical support is also another plus.
Companies such as Dell, and Compaq, have superb customer support departments, which will help you solve any problems that you might have. If you're the kind of person who doesn't have much spare time, then you should consider purchasing a computer rather than building one, because setting up a machine, and loading all the necessary software is a task that takes many many hours. The most important advantage of a home-built computer is its cost. As you'll see further on in this article, you can save a lot of money by assembling your own computer. With the help of the Internet and of online stores, it's not very hard to research the best prices.