Should I build or buy a prebuilt PC for 600 to 1000 AUD?

Building is worth considering if you want to learn and don't mind spending time researching parts. You get to choose every component, and the process can make future upgrades less intimidating.

It isn't automatically cheaper, though. Put together a parts list and compare its total with a prebuilt that has similar specs. Include anything else you need, such as a monitor, keyboard and mouse, in the budget.

If you just want a working PC and have no interest in assembling one, buy a prebuilt. There are decent deals sometimes, so compare a few PC retailers rather than assuming the DIY price will always win.

Check the full component list before buying, not just the processor and graphics card. Some listings give very little detail about the other parts.

What are you planning to use it for? That budget will go a lot further for everyday tasks than for demanding games. It also matters whether the 600 to 1000 AUD has to cover a screen and peripherals or just the PC itself.

Used parts are another option if you're comfortable doing some extra research. A secondhand processor, motherboard, memory or graphics card could stretch the budget, but check the condition and any warranty before buying. A lower price is less appealing if you can't verify what you're getting.