Custom built computers
Though mass produced branded computers are cheap and easily available in most countries, custom built computers can be better for certain applications / uses.
Some of the advantages of buying / building custom built computers are :
1. You pay only for the components and hardware you need and use. Every computer user uses the computer for different applications. Most mass produced computers have some hardware features which are not used by many users. This hardware can be eliminated, reducing the overall cost of the computer.
2. More user friendly : For a custom built computer, there is a lot of flexibility in selecting the cabinet , so that USB / parallel ports can be easily accessed and peripherals like printers connected or disconnected from the computer. Though major manufacturers like HP hire some of the “best” designers, USB ports for many PC models cannot be accessed from the front of the PC.
3. In case of component failure, you are not dependent on the manufacturer and you can use a similar component of any other make , if the specifications match .