Archived from groups: comp.sys.laptops (
More info?)
Not nearly as accommodating for build-your-own as a desktop computer. For
example, a desktop case with power supply can be found at nearly all
computer stores - and CRT monitors are very inexpensive and widely
available. However, I've NEVER seen an empty laptop case on a computer store
shelf, and rarely on Ebay - and even then they are almost always used and in
questionable condition. As for laptop components (such as memory, hard
drive, CD-ROM drive, USB port, motherboard, etc.), they must match the
configuration of the laptop case - and they are a lot more expensive than
the desktop equivalents. As to cost, the laptop LCD monitor is a several
hundred dollar item all by itself.
So it is like buying the parts for a car and assembling it. Even discounting
the labor involved, it is much, much cheaper to buy a car already assembled.
Your best bet is to look for a laptop that is on sale, or buy a used one. I
recently purchased a very good used Gateway 400 series laptop on Ebay for
$800. It included an Intel 2.6 GHZ Pentium 4 CPU, 512 MB of RAM, a 30 GB
hard drive, a 15 inch LCD screen, a DVD/CDRW combo drive, a 32 MB video
card, and a 3.5 inch floppy drive. Software included Windows XP Home (with
the CD disk included) and Microsoft Word.
"TC" <fake@fake.fak> wrote in message
news:n9mkr0tklmqqpo9k999b8bnei0umh6rsp7@4ax.com...
> Hello,
>
> I am thinking of getting a laptop. But I am running into some
> problems. Mainly paying for software I don't want or care about.
> Then there is the price thing.
>
> What I am wondering what is the likely hood of building my own
> lap top. I don't think I have ever seen anything to do this.
>
> Can someone one give me a hand with this. Where to look What
> to keep in mind etc.
>
> Thank you,
>
> TC