And you're speculating, and casting aspersions that mean nothing. You derived half of what you said by claiming hearsay, not bold-faced fact; because someone “told” you that you were cheaper doesn’t mean squat, and if you haven’t researched the parts or tested them, you’re making empty claims that these parts are less durable. I am basing all of my points on several living breathing benchmarks here in my office from several sides of the fence; plus countless hours of research in both equipment quality and price comparison that the end buyer may not be aware of, yet my recommendations will save money, and provide a kick *** PC.

Have you ever actually priced out a comparable PC from Compaq...
http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/.../desktops.html

Just for an example, go to the Presario page, and price out the SR1010Z. For video I usually go to Newegg, and to Crucial for Memory, never upgrade at Compaq prices. Same thing with extra CDR's and DVD drives, If I need anything in addition, I don't mess around with their over priced "upgrades", so what ever your video and memory choice should wash, cause you’d use it in both yours and the Compaq comparison.

Also, free shipping, typically a $50 rebate, and no tax offered by Compaq online. Grant it, my business pays taxes on these type of purchases at the end of the year, but and end homebuyer doesn’t have that requirement.

Then compare prices for what you would be able to build and tell me that you can build it cheaper, and make at least 15%...you can't do it! I guarantee it!!!