How to Find Cheap Computers

If you are looking to buy cheap computers you have a number of options. You can:

• buy a new system that is not a current model (demo model, discontinued, customer returns, etc.).
• search for the best deals for components online, and build your own computer.
• buy a certified or refurbished computer with a warranty from a respected vendor.
• buy a used system (Ebay is a great place).
• buy a barebones system and finish building it.

A sure way to increase your savings is to buy a computer that meets your current needs, and that can be upgraded later to meet your needs in the future.

Don't be fooled into thinking that you need the latest model computer. Dell, Gateway, and the other heavyweights spend millions on advertising every year to make you believe this. The truth is, a basic computer will handle just about anything you need to do online or offline. Make sure it's upgradeable before you purchase it, and you can meet your future needs as well.

Buy a New System

Buying a new system that is complete except for unboxing, hooking up the peripherals, and turning it on, is certainly the easiest way to go. The problem is you will pay more money for this type of turn-key approach. When purchasing a new system, remember that you can save yourself some money by not buying the latest model computer. Elect to go with a discontinued model or a closeout model. This doesn't mean that you are sacrificing quality to save money. No, far from it! You don't have to have the newest computer on the block for it to perform well. When it comes to buying cheap computers I like the selection and pricing at TigerDirect. To see what they have to offer click here.

Build a Computer

This is my favorite (suprise) of the methods to get a cheap computer. I have been building my own cheap computers from components for years, and it is truly a way to save money.

The advantages are real. Each part is hand picked, and the best price obtained from an online supplier. It's better to go with one good online supplier, and buy all the components and peripherals to build your computer at the same time. This way you'll save on shipping charges. I've also found that online suppliers usually have the lowest prices, especially compared to local sources.

One supplier that I found to have consistently lower prices and speedy delivery is TigerDirect.. Remember, you control the quality and cost of your computer from the get go when you build your own. Click here to go to the Introduction to Building Your Own Computers page, and find out if this is a viable option for you.

Refurbished Computers

Refurbished cheap computers are a godsend for those of us on a tight budget. What you get for your money is a proven computer platform, peripherals, software, and a warranty to back it up in case something goes wrong. One of my favorite places to look for cheap refurbished computers is TigerDirect. Click here to check out their refurbished computers offerings online.

Used Computers on Ebay

Another idea to save money on a computer is to explore auctions on Ebay. The cheapest computer I ever bought came from a seller on Ebay. I guarantee if you spend some time looking you will find a bargain. Use the search box below to check out the curent auctions on Ebay.

First, click inside the "Shop For" box with your left mouse button (right where it says "search here"). Then type in the model, brand, or description of the computer you are interested in. Next, click on the down pointing arrow at the end of "All Categories". Select computers from the drop down list by clicking it. Then click the "Find It Now" radio button or hit your enter key. This will take you to the active auctions for computers that match your search terms.



The sheer number and variety of auctions on Ebay has to be seen to be believed, and it changes constantly! You can check the feedback (reputation) score of a seller before buying, and take comfort in knowing that your dealing with a reputable seller if they have a good feedback score (a score of 90-100% is acceptable). You also have Buyer Protection from Ebay and Paypal when paying by credit card. Always use a credit card when buying online. That way you have recourse if the deal goes south for any reason.

You do have to be a registered user before you can make a purchase on Ebay. If you're not an Ebay member yet, you can register here. It's fast and easy and opens up a world of bargains for your consideration.


Barebones Computer Kits

Barebone computers are another way to get cheap computers. A barebone computer is one with a case, cpu, motherboard, and a power supply (this may vary depending on the vendor). Generally, you'll have to furnish a hard drive, memory, optical drive, and peripherals (mouse,monitor,keyboard). The hard part(installing the motherboard and cpu into the case) has been done for you. This is a great way to go, especially if you can harvest components from your current computer or have other parts on hand. Remember, the barebones computer kits have new parts in them. Check out a great selection of barebone computers kits here.






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