Is it just me (Component pricing)

[Tekki]

Or are computer parts cheap as FUCK right now...

I don't usually computer shop and honestly havent for years. I planned on building a pc with my tax return money and was scratching around with the idea around a $600 rig a few month ago.

Now I am looking at parts and tiger direct and shit seems soooo cheap. What should I be cautious for when looking at this stuff?

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...6-_-components

[Blabj]

You just get more computer for your money. It's basically Moore's law in action. It states that every 18 months computers get twice as powerful, thus older components depreciate rapidly.

We're at a point where games aren't particularly moving as fast as hardware is being developed, I'd say there is probably a gap of about a generation between required system specs and current generation components.

I think that for $600 you can easily get a computer with 4 cores and 4gb of RAM. If you used this (http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...3691&CatId=333) as a basis for a set up, then modify your choice of components (you can probably recycle your HD and DVD burner, get a cheaper case etc. - this will allow you to buy a decent graphics card) you'd be able to get a computer that'll last you a good few years, and not cost the earth.

Depending on how comfortable you are with making computers you might be tempted to go for kits, which are usually readily assembled in one way or another. Things to look out for are hidden costs such as extra fans, any cabling, and working out which components you can scrimp and save on, and which are a false economy. I would say always buy a very good power supply. Not only will it last you for a long time (recycled into other builds) but you're less likely to have any problems down the line. Scrimping on the processor can sometimes be acceptable, but if you're buying with an eye to upgrade in a few months make sure you get a popular socket type, as these can change very frequently and usually aren't used for more than a couple of generations of CPUs before they're considered obsolete.

[Olo401]

Well using the link you posted specifically, it's a combination of basics (i.e. low-end), older tech and close outs. Some of the parts in here are up to 3 years old. It's a nice starter machine if you're just looking for something to get you up & running now, though you'll need at least a video card to do any gaming.

[Isiolia]

RAM is actually more expensive than it had been, and some other parts are (or will be) going up in price.

You can definitely get more for your money in terms of CPU n' GPU than ever before though.

[Takedown3]

ram price has jumped 23% according to engadget. there are analysts saying to expect prices to get even higher over the next few years as companies rebound from recession.

They are also saying that due to supply shortage for critcal components of personal electronics an even higher price point can be expected for said devices.