I don't know if it's just luck, but in the past 10 years I've never had one of my 3 clones in for repairs. I had one in the shop for a virus removal in my early days of computer owning (my fault and something that I can correct myself these days), but otherwise I've not had a problem. I like the thought of being able to pick and choose just what you want in a computer. For instance, a a high end video card is important for me because of my photography hobby, but a high end audio card isn't. IMHO, buying from the local small guy will give you a great product at the same price or better than the big guys. Give them a look. .