Not for the techno-novice

For most, the best route to go when buying a computer is getting as much of the whole package as you can afford. This will eliminate guesswork. However, if you know what your doing (and have the software) a barebones kit might be the best way to go. Kits like the Soyo K7VME Socket cost next to nothing, and come with almost everything. Leaving you to add the processor, the screen and any peripherals (like a printer). Basically buying barebones saves cash to use towards creating the ultimate customized computer.