For gaming aficionados looking to upgrade or replace parts of their gaming PC, there are many options. From online stores to brick and mortar locations, those in search of more power, better graphics, and increased storage capacity can find plenty of options to choose from. This guide will go through the various places where one can buy parts for gaming PCs and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Online Stores
When it comes to buying parts for gaming PCs, there are a wealth of online stores at one’s disposal. Most retailers offer next-day or two-day shipping, making it an ideal option for gamers who need a part ASAP. Most stores have detailed product descriptions, and plenty of customer reviews, which makes finding the exact piece for one’s PC easier. Prices are competitive and often you can buy in bulk, giving one the ability to save money. On the downside, online stores don’t usually offer any installation, which might be a problem for first-time buyers, who need a helping hand in upgrading their PC.
Retailers
Generally, retailers have a wide selection of gaming PC parts, often from different manufacturers. That allows buyers to compare several products from different brands, a process which can be especially helpful in finding the best parts for a gaming PC. Moreover, it is often possible to find knowledgeable sales staff who can point one in the right direction. The downside is that the parts may be more expensive than those found online, and sometimes are limited in their availability.
Components Websites
Component websites are another great way to find the best parts for a gaming PC. They typically have a lot of information, reviews, and even helpful tutorials, which can be a great help for novices. Plus, most prices are competitive and often there are incentives for buying parts in bulk. One downside is that delivery times can be on the long side. Another is that some parts may be out of stock, making the process of tweaking one’s gaming PC more laborious.
Hardware Forums
Hardware forums are an invaluable resource when it comes to gathering information about various gaming PC parts. Experts post their reviews, insights, and experiences using different parts, which can be a great shortcut for those who don’t have the time or resources to do the research themselves. Downsides are that buying parts via forums can be less secure than from a trusted retailer, and delivery times are often longer, as one needs to go through a 3rd-party.
Social Media
Social media is another great option for finding parts for a gaming PC. Sites like Reddit have forums dedicated just to technology topics, where one can find all sorts of information about gaming PC parts. Moreover, suppliers often advertise their products on social media platforms, and there are some benefits to buying directly from the manufacturer. The downside is that there isn’t always as much information available, which makes it more difficult to be 100% sure of what one is buying.
Local Stores
Local stores are yet another great option when it comes to buying gaming PC parts. They often have knowledgeable staff who can help one with the selection process, and provide installation services. On the downside, the process of finding the exact part one needs can be time-consuming, and prices are typically on the high side.
Pet Stores
Finally, pet stores are another place where one can find gaming PC parts. They often carry basic parts, such as RAM sticks, CPUs, and storage drives, which can be helpful in a pinch. Plus, pet stores usually have knowledgeable staff who can help one find the right part. The downside is that prices are generally more expensive than online or local stores, and selection is usually more limited.
Advantages of Online Shopping
Online stores offer the convenience of shopping from anywhere and the ability to compare different models side-by-side in order to find the best one. Moreover, many have user-friendly websites which make browsing and finding compatible parts easier. Prices are often cheaper compared to retail stores, and some sites offer free shipping or discounts for ordering in bulk.
Disadvantages of Online Shopping
One of the main drawbacks of buying from online stores is the lack of support. If one needs help installing or troubleshooting the part, one won’t get much help from the store. Delivery times may also be longer, depending on the product and where one lives. And if there’s an issue with the part, it can be difficult to get a refund or return the part.
Advantages of Retailers
Retailers, on the other hand, offer the benefit of being able to get hands-on with the products. One can check out their compatibility with existing parts, ask sales staff questions, and get tech support if needed. Plus, they often have competitive prices, and will usually match the price of online stores.
Disadvantages of Retailers
The downside is that selection is often more limited compared to online stores. Plus, delivery times are usually slower, as one has to wait for the part to be shipped from the store. Buying from retailers may also be more expensive, since stores have to pay for rent, staff, and other overhead costs.
Advantages of Component Websites
Component websites are a great option for those who want detailed information before making a purchase. Most sites provide detailed product descriptions, reviews, and tutorials which can be useful for first-time buyers. Prices are usually competitive and there are often incentives for buying in bulk.
Disadvantages of Component Websites
One of the main drawbacks is the lack of in-person help. If one is not an expert, it can be time-consuming to find the right part, and if there’s an issue with the part it may be difficult to return it or get a refund. Delivery times can also be on the long side, depending on the product, and purchasing from an overseas vendor may incur hefty shipping costs.
Advantages of Hardware Forums
Hardware forums offer a wealth of knowledge which can be useful for novice builders. Reviews and opinions posted by experts provide valuable insight which can help one make an informed decision. Plus, purchasing parts from fellow gamers can be cheaper than buying from a retailer.
Disadvantages of Hardware Forums
The downside to buying parts via forums is that it can be difficult to verify the credibility of the seller. Also, delivery times are often longer, as the parts have to go through a 3rd-party. And it might be challenging to get a refund or return a part if there’s an issue with it.
Advantages of Social Media
Social media offers the convenience of being able to shop from the comfort of one’s home. Prices are generally competitive, and one can often find special offers from suppliers. Plus, social media platforms provide a great way to research products, as one can find lots of reviews and opinions from fellow gamers.
Disadvantages of Social Media
The main downside to buying parts from social media is that it can be difficult to verify the authenticity of the parts. Plus, it might be difficult to get tech support if needed. And the delivery times are often longer, as the parts are usually coming from an overseas supplier.
Advantages of Local Stores
Local stores are a great option for those who want to support their local community. Moreover, it’s often possible to find helpful sales staff who can answer any questions one might have. Plus, some stores offer installation services, making the process of upgrading one’s PC a breeze.
Disadvantages of Local Stores
The downside is that prices tend to be higher compared to online stores. Plus, the selection is usually more limited, and it can be time-consuming to search for a compatible part which meets one’s needs. And delivery times are generally slower, as parts have to be ordered from a supplier.
Advantages of Pet Stores
Pet stores are a great option for those who are looking for basics parts like RAM sticks or CPUs. Prices are typically more affordable than other stores, and pet stores often have knowledgeable staff who can help out. Plus, they often carry a wide variety of parts, making it easier to find the perfect one.
Disadvantages of Pet Stores
The negatives include the fact that delivery times may be on the slow side, as pet stores generally don’t have an online ordering system. Plus, the selection is often more limited compared to online and retail stores. And prices may be higher, as pet stores usually don’t offer discounts or incentives for buying in bulk.
