Buy a Prebuilt PC $2000 Now or Wait for Black Friday Sales for Better Quality?

LThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 09:13
Last edited 07/06/2021 - 09:49 by 1 other user

Hi all.

1st time poster but long time Lurker. I have a question for the more initiated than myself.

I want to purchase a PC for my son, I have looked at Aftershock & picked a build for $2055 . It will be used for most day to day activities & some medium level gaming. As you can tell I'm not very PC literate for my age but I have a question that is very subjective & just an opinion from those more in the know than I.

With CPU/GPU prices being ridiculous at this time is there a chance that stock & prices could change by the end of November this year? I was going to wait & hopefully get something a little better during The Black Friday Sales but if parts are harder to get & prices keep over inflating am I better of purchasing now?

So any thoughts you could give me would be appreciated…

Cheers in advance.

WARRANTY PACKAGES : 2 Years Parts Warranty (Pickup and return from your location)
CHASSIS : BOLT : BOLT MESH High Airflow Chassis | Tempered Glass Design - SLATE BLACK
DESKTOP MOTHERBOARD : For AMD - ASUS B550 ROG STRIX-F
CPU : DESKTOPS : AMD RYZEN 5 3600X | 4.4 GHZ | 6 Cores 12 Threads
GRAPHICS CARD : PERFORMANCE : GIGABYTE GTX 1660 Super OC Edition - 6GB
THERMAL COMPOUND : Premium Enthusiast Grade Thermal Compound
RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY (RAM) : DESKTOP : 16GB DDR4 3600MHz Gigabyte Aorus RGB Memory (2X8GB | Dual Channel | RGB, 18-19-19-39)
CPU COOLING SYSTEM (DESKTOP) : AIR COOLING : Aftershock Frost Cooler (fan dependent on chassis fan selection)
PRIMARY M.2 SSD : DESKTOPS : 1TB AFTERSHOCK M.2 NVME SSD (R: 3300 | W: 3000)
SECONDARY SOLID STATE DRIVE BAY : None
FIRST HARD DRIVE : DESKTOP : 2TB Seagate BarraCuda 7200RPM HDD 3.5"
CHASSIS FANS : AFTERSHOCK S1 ARGB Fans x 4
CASE LIGHTING : None
WIRELESS LAN : DESKTOP : None
CUSTOM CABLE SLEEVES : Standard Cable Setup
POWER SUPPLY UNIT : INWIN 750W 80+ Gold Premium

Computing Computer Desktop Computer

Comments

  • FireRunner on 07/06/2021 - 09:32
    +1

    We can't see your build, you'll need to copy paste the specs across

    • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 09:46

      Can that be seen now ???

      • FireRunner on 07/06/2021 - 10:15
        +3

        My tips:

        • I'm not 100% sure on the difference but the GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 instead of the ASUS B550 ROG STRIX-F would save you $65
        • RBG RAM is a waste of money, get 16GB DDR4 3600 MHz Memory ( 2X8GB | Dual Channel ) KLEVV BOLT XR to save $55
        • Buy a secondary NVMe SSD instead of upgrading the original. It $100 to upgrade the primary SSD from 500GB to 1TB but you can buy a 1TB for $123 which should be easy to install
        • 2TB HDD for $80 is ok price but only if you need that extra storage space. I would personally not bother with a HDD. One can always be added later easily enough
        • Consider the GIGABYTE 3060 GAMING OC which is significantly better than a 1660 Super. Whether it's worth it depends on what you're playing and expected resolution and framerate.

        It's not particularly good value. As others have mentioned checkout TechFast though you'll need to factor in additional storage since the base is typically a small SATA ssd

  • hotukdeals on 07/06/2021 - 09:35
    +3

    if you don't want to build yr own, I would get a dell. Or a mac mini if you can forego gaming.

    And I don't think waiting will do much good, unless we are a week away from a new cpu being released. Just dive in.

    • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 09:47

      Absolutely no way am I going to attempt to build something…LOL

      • hotukdeals on 07/06/2021 - 09:52
        +1

        this is a much better spec than the one you posted. https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-desktop-computers/dell-… check the delivery times though

        • Master Bates on 07/06/2021 - 10:00
          +5

          Not trying to start an argument and this likely won't matter to a non-tech literate PC user, but this is why I wouldn't buy a Dell:

          OP, most of this might go over your head (no offense intended) just informing the uninformed so you make the best decision for your son.

          • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 10:03

            @Master Bates: No offense taken…
            Thank you

          • hotukdeals on 07/06/2021 - 10:05
            +1

            @Master Bates: fair enough. I didn't know they were bad - I have one at work its fine (but built my own gaming pc).

            • Master Bates on 07/06/2021 - 10:13

              @hotukdeals: All good! Dell's will work (as you can attest to) but those in the know don't buy them.

          • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 10:08

            @Master Bates: Just watched a few reviews on the Dell…. Yeah/ Nah…
            They hammered it

          • p1 ama on 07/06/2021 - 10:52
            +1

            @Master Bates: To be fair, all of those titles are pretty clickbait. The issues described are real, but can be addressed with a bit of common sense or tech know-how.

            Gamers Nexus - Worse Than Walmart: Dell G5 5000 PC’s Garbage Parts & Hidden Charges

            This video raises some good issues, but a lot of it just seems to be PC DIY elitism (which certainly exists amongst the community). A lot of the issues raised here, e.g. non-standard parts or lack of upgradability is just not something that is that big of a deal to the average person who buys a pre-built. I don't find anything particularly problematic with any of the issues raised and the actual moral of the story is that the computer is what is advertised - basically the cheapest components to get that CPU/GPU combo in that price range.

            Gamers Nexus - Dell's Dumpster Fire: Bloatware Uses 30% GPU (G5 5000 Review & Benchmarks)

            Reinstall a clean copy of an OS on any computer that you buy. This should be common practice to avoid any security/bloatware issues anyway.

            Linus Tech Tips - Dell SCAMMED Me - $1500 PC Secret Shopper 2 Part 4

            Don't purchase through the phone. Purchase through a web portal where you can see exactly what you are paying for and how much the total is. Calling up a sales rep is just asking to be upsold/ripped off in this day and age IMO.

            FWIW, even with that Dell system at $2000, even if you just buy it to rip out the CPU and GPU, you're already up. It's just a no-brainer in this current economic climate.

            • Master Bates on 07/06/2021 - 11:28

              @p1 ama: Of course the titles are clickbait, they want you to watch the video.

              I can't get past the proprietary parts though, you're locked into Dell's support system for the most part.

              FWIW, even with that Dell system at $2000, even if you just buy it to rip out the CPU and GPU, you're already up. It's just a no-brainer in this current economic climate.

              I would rather get a pre-built made from off-the-shelf parts that are at least interchangeable and resalable.

              • p1 ama on 09/06/2021 - 00:23

                @Master Bates:

                I would rather get a pre-built made from off-the-shelf parts that are at least interchangeable and resalable.

                I agree, but like 90% of the Dell PC is also "off-the-shelf" parts, right?

                The CPU is completely "off-the-shelf", the GPU is "off-the-shelf" (albeit it might be a Dell OEM card, it's still the same chip from Nvidia), the RAM is completely "off-the-shelf", so is the SSD.

                The only Dell proprietary parts are the case, motherboard and PSU.

                I would rather get a pre-built made from off-the-shelf parts that are at least interchangeable and resalable.

                I would too, but can you find a 10700F + 3060 Ti for $2000?

      • CrispyChrispy on 07/06/2021 - 11:17
        +1

        It's easier than it sounds, and it'll make a good bonding experience with your son. Lots of easy to follow YouTube tutorials online which you can follow.

      • netjock on 07/06/2021 - 11:51
        +1

        Find a friend knowledgeable. Offer pizza and drinks for the afternoon and build one. Pay attention. It is money that keeps on giving long into the future.

  • Master Bates on 07/06/2021 - 09:46
    +1

    I don't think anyone in the tech industry is predicting a return to normality until mid-end of next year. That is a long time to wait, so buy what you feel is adequate now and upgrade parts later when prices return to normal.

    If you want to save money then buy a Techfast system, but bear in mind you get lower quality components (although not an issue if up[grading further down the line).

    Don't buy a Dell unless you're happy with the existing configuration, upgrading is not as straightforward due to the proprietary components.

  • djkelly69 on 07/06/2021 - 10:01
    +2

    If you are willing to wait out the build/shipping times with Techfast, you can get a lot better value for money from some of their builds posted here.

    Do you know if he will be gaming at 1080p or 1440p or higher?

    • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 10:12

      I read a bit about gaming at 1080p or 1440p but I'm sorry I just don't understand it but in saying that I don't think he will be…
      He will most likely just play it as it comes without mucking around with settings, etc but in saying that he knows a lot more than I do.

      Hence why I prefer pre-built

      • hotukdeals on 07/06/2021 - 10:15
        +1

        what resolution monitor will be used

        • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 10:22

          I believe 1920 x 1080 but don't quote me

          • djkelly69 on 07/06/2021 - 10:34

            @ThePunchingBag: If that is the case, I would be looking at this which is both a lot cheaper than the link you posted and should be better for gaming with the 2060.

  • djsweet on 07/06/2021 - 10:18
    +3

    For a 2k gaming build, Id be aiming for a RTX 3070. Can be got during a Dell sale. Totally fine if you aren't planning to do upgrades.
    I'd say you might as well wait till you need it, prebuilt prices are remaining stable. Its mostly custom build prices that are fluctuating.

    Here's a recent Dell deal: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/625227

    • FireRunner on 07/06/2021 - 10:23
      +1

      There's also this Techfast 3070 build on backorder

    • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 10:23

      Just seen some reviews on the Dell & No Thanks… I don't have the skills to swap stuff out/in

      • pharkurnell on 07/06/2021 - 10:35
        +2

        Look at the university of Youtube… Changing a video card is as easy as putting the kettle on.
        Undo a few screws
        lift out old card
        slide new one in
        do up screws
        turn on install drivers
        look at smile on kids face..

        Wait for Black whatever day sales.. you'll score a better spec that will last longer without needing upgrades.

        • FireRunner on 07/06/2021 - 10:51
          +2

          GPU and memory are easy to replace.
          With the Dell prebuilt, you'll want to upgrade the CPU cooler since the stock one is garbage which is a fair bit more complicated

        • GordonR on 07/06/2021 - 10:51
          +2

          My kettle is easier to operate than this.

  • Ruddaga on 07/06/2021 - 10:39
    +2

    For 2k this build is garbage. As mentioned either go a dell build on a sale or techfast.

    Don't stress too much about the Dell swapping of parts etc… If you're a basic user, than the dell parts should be fine.

    • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 10:47

      Any other pre-builts I've looked at have been similar or a fair bit more… Hence why I know that prices are well over inflated.

      • djsweet on 07/06/2021 - 11:06
        +2

        Check out this recent BCP Tech deal: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/628155. I'd say a bit better for the price.

        • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 11:35
          +1

          I like that one…Shame the price is back up to $2617 :-(

        • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 12:20

          BCP Tech has some good builds but not happy with the reviews on the Mother boards they use…

          • ChristopherJack on 08/06/2021 - 04:46
            +1

            @ThePunchingBag: That specific one has a decent brand Mobo. Just look at it on a product-by-product basis & google the individual part, I'd imagine they may even offer upgrades on some products that come with a cheaper generic mobo. Frankly, unless it's faulty, anything will do so long as you make sure everything is compatible- premium boards are for very specific things, like extra USB slots, built-in wifi, higher speed RAM & SSD support, etc- things most people would never ever need to know or recognize- especially if you don't plan on upgrading & want something that just works.

  • Ruddaga on 07/06/2021 - 10:54
    +1

    Just wait for a good sale. Or get a laptop. For some reason laptops haven't become too inflated (last I checked)

  • TheBird on 07/06/2021 - 12:17
    +1

    It's a tough call.

    3080ti just came out with the 3070ti coming out soon. There are hopes that these cards will increase the supply of video cards to gamers with the mining limiters. That being said, here in Australia, the price of the 3080ti is nuts high, so I'm suspecting it's not so much a function of increased supply, but whether you're willing to pay a lot for the card…

    Another point to consider, there is a microchip shortage worldwide. There are moves to increase supply but that's not going to help much until 2023.

    My best bet would say you're not going to get to see much in the way of good deals in computers this year. Unless you're willing to wait until next years deals, grab that computer now.

  • Pelicannn on 07/06/2021 - 12:53
    +2

    You missed out on this deal.

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/627896

    $500 cheaper and the 6700XT would blow the 1660 out of the water. Not even a close comparison.

    • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 13:12

      Yes I've missed out on a few deals the this past week or so because of procrastinating

      • Pelicannn on 07/06/2021 - 13:15
        +2

        Just wait out :) as others have said, this is a poor deal. Hopefully your son can wait. If he’s impatient let him know waiting will get him a much better machine if budget is important.

      • hotukdeals on 08/06/2021 - 08:29
        +1

        this is good https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/623765

        • ThePunchingBag on 08/06/2021 - 10:14

          That looks like an awesome deal compared to the stuff I was looking at… my only concern is the fans being super loud, only 1 stick of Ram & of course I want to increase the SSD to 1TB…Then again I could take it someone who knows what they're doing & help me in that perspective…

          I'm going to pull the trigger after a little thought on this system…

          Cheers for finding that

          • Pelicannn on 08/06/2021 - 10:42
            +1

            @ThePunchingBag: https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-desktop-computers/new-a…

            Hey mate, using LOVEKEANU code at checkout will bring this down to $2300.

            Bit out of budget, but the 11700F will be better for gaming and the 3060Ti will blow the 1660 out of the water. I’d say twice the frame rate could be expected.

            I’d potentially consider the upgrade to water cooled CPU to keep it quiet but that would be another $93 after discount.

            I wouldn’t recommend normal Dell XPS and G series gaming as lots of proprietary parts but the Alienware are a little better. We have a 3080 R12 at home for the missus and it’s fine alongside my fully custom waterloop 2080ti/9900K build.

            • ThePunchingBag on 08/06/2021 - 19:04

              @Pelicannn: Are the fans as loud as people say ??? Can you confirm that for me please

              • Pelicannn on 08/06/2021 - 21:38
                +1

                @ThePunchingBag: It's fine, compared to my watercooled rig, absolutely… compared to any other pre-built from a similar manufacturer, nope. I would consider moving the HDD and putting another fan in the case though if you want it to be a little quieter or changing the fans to Noctua / Arctic etc

  • GoblinKing on 07/06/2021 - 14:27

    I like to do a comparison between high-end and medium-end computers, and I make variations of builds with part picker websites.
    Sometimes I will see motherboard+cpu deals on websites, and sometimes they also include a gpu. Those are generally cheaper.

    In my opinion and experience most of the time its better to just build a desktop rather than buying a prebuilt one.

    Also if you do plan to build one, you can have a fun experience with your son, it can be a teaching experience also. Plus you can make sure he is fulfilled with the outcome!

  • ThePunchingBag on 07/06/2021 - 16:13

    Thanks all… Haven't fully made up my mind yet but I think I will buy one before the EOFY… I will just keep watching the screen & hopefully a good deal comes up

  • HelpMeiCantSee on 08/06/2021 - 11:27
    +1

    Always, always buy now or when price is highest. Economics 101 my friend.

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