Buy or Build systems? [duplicate]

Should I be buying workstations and servers from Dell/HP or build them myself?
What exactly are we paying these companies extra for?

Solution 1:

It depends on the value of your time, and your exact needs. If your time is not a concern, or if you need something very specific, then build away. Otherwise, buying a complete, tested, supported system is probably a better move.

Solution 2:

Without a doubt, buy them already built. Your time is too valuable to waste building them. With Dell, HP, etc you'll get a standard, tested configuration and, more importantly, you'll get support in the form of someone to come out with spare parts to fix your server when things go wrong.