The cheapest desktop rig you can assemble

Posted by Scout on November 27, 2008

Prices have fallen down dramatically over the last decade, while features have vastly improved. This got me thinking: if I was to build a brand new PC, what’s the cheapest desktop rig that can be assembled? What specs can it have? Can it be built with new parts under 10K?

In order to answer this, I tried using PC Builder (based on PC Corner’s prices). For each component part, I chose the cheapest option, went the integrated route, and skipped non-essential devices. What I included were the processor, motherboard (integrated video, audio, network), memory card, hard drive, CD-ROM drive, casing, monitor, keyboard and mouse. Here’s what I got from this experiment:

I’m little disappointed that it wasn’t able to go below 10K, considering that there are brand new mini-notebooks out now that sell at sub-10K prices. However, I’m sure there’s another shop out there that sells parts for less (or you can use your powers of persuasion). So think of the table above as a guide and not the absolute minimum. If you find one, please share your discovery in the comments below.

As always, before you buy, consider what you’ll use the desktop for. If it’s just for Internet surfing, running Microsoft Office programs and playing old games, then this configuration is more than enough. Should you feel than you need more ooomph, you can always upgrade later. Now that you know the base price of a desktop, you can start planning your savings.

» Filed Under Computers

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