Why Building Your Own PC Is Still a Joy and How It Compares to Prebuilds & Modular Laptops

Marcus
Aug 13, 2025
3 min read

Introduction

Custom-building your own PC is a rite of passage for tech lovers — a chance to pick every component, maximize performance, and stretch a budget. But with sleek prebuilt systems and new modular laptops on the rise, many wonder: is building still worth it?

This blog dives into why DIY PCs remain powerful and personal, how they stack up against prebuilts and consoles, and introduces an exciting modular laptop trend offering the best of both worlds.

The Thrill of Building Your Own PC

When you build your own PC, you get:

Component choice — select the exact processor, GPU, RAM, and storage based on needs and budget
Performance boost — well-cooled builds can outperform off-the-shelf systems
Upgrade flexibility — you can replace a part rather than buy a whole new system
Learning curve — building teaches you hardware fundamentals and troubleshooting skills
Cost control — pick features you actually use, and spend where it matters

The process, piece by piece, feels like crafting something unique — and the performance gains? That’s the X factor.

Prebuilt Systems vs Custom Builds

Criteria	Custom Build	Prebuilt System
Customization	Full control over every component	Limited to what’s offered
Warranty & Support	Individual parts may vary	Single vendor handles it all
Initial Cost	Better value for high performance	Often includes markup
Time & Effort	DIY assembly and research	Plug-and-play convenience
Aesthetic Choices	Full freedom	Design limited to manufacturer

Building lets you tailor everything. Prebuilts offer speed and peace of mind — the choice depends on your priorities.

PC vs Console

Gaming on PC vs console often stirs debate:

PC advantages: hardware upgrades, superior graphics, variety of input methods, mods, and full ecosystem access
Console draws: plug-and-play simplicity, exclusive game titles, and fixed hardware guarantees
Feel: PC offers long-term flexibility; console keeps things simple and consistent

If you enjoy unlocking performance, building a PC may be your gateway to digital creativity. If simplicity and exclusives matter more, a console might do the job.

Getting Started — Your First Build

Set a budget — decide your performance needs and game tier
Choose a processor first — GPU availability often depends on CPU choice
Pick compatible parts for motherboard, RAM, PSU, and storage
Use build tools like PCPartPicker to avoid compatibility issues
Watch assembly tutorials, take it slow, and steady power on test early
Install your OS, drivers, then benchmark to verify performance

DIY build communities are full of guides and support, making your first build an exciting hands-on learning experience.

Modular Laptops: A New Frontier

Enter the era of modular laptops — the best of both worlds for upgradeers.

Adapt X (Concept) — A Fresh Take

A modular concept laptop by Compal Electronics with detachable screens, hot-swappable components, and a tablet-style keyboard TechRadar
Swappable modules extend lifespan and reduce waste
Detachable secondary display lets you multitask on the fly TechRadar

Framework Laptops — Already In Market

Framework's 13-inch and 16-inch models offer replaceable RAM, storage, battery, and even GPU on the larger model Windows Central Wikipedia
2025 iteration features Ryzen AI chips, support for 96GB DDR5, and 2.8K displays The Verge
DIY base price starts at $799 ( or $1,399 for the 16-inch DIY), while prebuilt models can go up to $1,699 in the U.S. Windows Central Tom's Guide
South Africa users can find the Framework Laptop 16 for around ZAR 23,643 with Ryzen 7 and 8GB RAM Laptop 6

Mixed Reviews from Users

“My laptop lasted forever... a modular laptop with the best processors… is my dream laptop.” Trustpilot “Building upgradability into a laptop is neat, but at a steep price premium.” Reddit

Framework nails sustainability and repairability — but expect tradeoffs in cost and support.

Final Thoughts — What Fits You Best?

Want total control and the best performance for buck? Build a PC
Prefer simplicity with strong specs out of the box? Go with a prebuilt
Love upgradability but need portability? Modular laptops might be the way forward

Each path reflects a different kind of freedom. Choose based on your goals, not hype.