Buy computer or build own?

[rwperu34]

I built two of my own last year. They were cheaper. They are now in the garbage. I bought two more with two years warranty from Fry's Electronics. Peace of mind is worth the extra money spent.

Also, the money I lost from not having a computer available to play poker more than compensated for the difference in cost. At the hourly rate we earn, you do not need a whole lot of extra down time from building it yourself to slide into -EV territory.

If your friend will warranty the computer, then that would probably be the best move. Even if he charges $50-$100/year, it will be well worth it.