Barebones
computers and barebones systems provide a ray of hope for those looking
for very affordable but good cheap computers. There are some things you
need to look out for so you don't get caught out.
Getting a new computer should be a cool thing, especially a cheap
computer. After all that time struggling with you old machine, probably
fighting with it to get the latest software to run, your new computer
should be a ray of light for your computing future.
Oh, if it were that simple. If things were really that easy or simple
when buying a cheap computer, life would be much easier, but just like
every other thing, its not that simple.
Barebones computers have become extremely popular, and for good reason.
Getting a barebones computer which does not include a monitor and comes
with the bear minimum of parts makes them an upgradable, practical and
cheap computer.
But not all things are rosy in barebones computer land...
1. Missing parts
Although barebones computers do come with the essential pieces, most
people need at least one or two extras for their day to day barebones
system. This is simply due to different applications people use them
for. Don't get caught missing that extra part from your barebones
system that you then need to get later. You still need to do some
homework and research to find out what you really need from your
barebones system.
2. Super cheap computer deals
Beware, many corners can be cut to get those sub $200 dollar barebones
systems. They can be great, but not always, carefully analyse the
components of the package. Also remember that a barebones system
couldn't possibly include a monitor for that price, which adds a lot to
the price.
3. Mismatched parts
This could become a problem if building your own computer, but it even
happens in pre-assembled barebones computer deals. There is a chance
that you get something that doesn't fit with the barebones system.
There are lots of different connections and speed ratings between
parts. Make sure the ones you get match up to the other parts and your
needs. Although not common, incompatibilities between parts are not
unheard of.
4. Outdated components
To get super-cheap deals older parts are sometimes used in cheap
computers. Although this can be a great cost-saver and some old parts
are fantastic, there is nearly no chance of an upgrade without putting
a major amount of money into your barebones computer again, perhaps as
much if not probably more than you paid for your great deal.
5. Defective parts
Although this is another one that has gotten better as the competition
has gotten stronger, there is a chance of defects in cheaper products.
Your motherboard could be faulty, your power supply might give up after
a month or two. These may not be intentional problems, but come hand in
hand with "cheap computer stuff".
6.Refurbished computer parts
Refurbished computer parts are a great way to save some money. Not
always the biggest saver, but there can be problems with the updates to
these computers in much the way as mismatches happen in barebones
systems. Often the computer is slightly updated to meet needs, but is
really quite an old model, just with upgrades. Can be fine, but the
parts they replace might be replaced with something newer but inferior.
7. Claims of great warranty
To try and entice you into feeling safe, offers of long warranties are
made. Most of the parts in the computer could have past their warranty
dates, so the warranties are purely from the company that put the
computer together. They can be hard to contact and take their time to
get replacements to you as well as expect you to mail the computer to
them so that they can do the repairs.
Barebones computers can be a great way to put together a second
computer, build a computer for simple purposes, like writing documents
and casual web surfing. Barebones fit perfectly as a second computer.
Just keep these things in mind and you won't get bitten by the bargain
bin monster.
