decent online pc retailer

[Torn]

alright. Since Vista is not totally 100% sucking I've been starting to think about getting a new pc sometime. Does anyone have any pointers on any decent online retailers that have good customization kits and options that preferably ship at a decent rate to Canada with the option for building pc's for you at certain specs (possibly OCed, etc).

Timing isn't really an issue, just wondering if anyone had any good experiences with some retailers over what's available to my knowledge in Canada.

Obviously price is an issue as well, not really looking for wacky alienware case design or anything at a premium. But I understand they've done a bit of reshuffling themselves so let me know!

[Hellstorm]

You can look into Dell XPS systems. You can customize it as needed if your on a budget. I just got an XPS a couple months ago - I am pretty happy with it. Typically I build my systems, but for the hardware I wanted, it was more cost-effective to purchase. Any other company like Alienware, Falcon Northwest, etc., you will be paying a lot for the name. Granted they are good computers, but it will cost you. No idea how it affects Canadians.

[Mattc0m]

XPS isn't that bad, actually. Dell's gotten better with time.

I've had a buddy get a PC from www.ibuypower.com and they're good according to him. But I've also heard stories about bad customer service, too. But they've got good prices, so I generally take a look at them.

Custom PC is the way to go, though.

[Explicit]

I am an idiot sorry....

[Hellstorm]

You are silly Explicit. I mean, this isn't like 5 years ago where such a thing you said is true (granted there are companies that exist that do that, but they do not sell gaming machines either). Lets see, Dell XPS is developed with the gamer in mind - considering Dell acquired Alienware, you would think they learned a thing or two. Parts are replaceable, including the CPU. Also, the Dell XPS is overclockable, just like any other gaming rig. You can use on-board or off board sound. The only thing Dell does with the XPS is make its own motherboard BTX style - it has an NForce chipset needed by SLI. Bottom line, the Dell XPS is no different from any other gaming rig from Alienware, Falcon Northwest, or etc. If you want you can swap out memory, sound cards, ram, graphics cards, CPU like you can with any other machine. Dell would not make any money from hardcore gamers if they could not change out parts. Lastly, Dell XPS has very good ratings as a solid gaming PC.

Do your research.

[Cpl Boden]

You are silly Explicit. I mean, this isn't like 5 years ago where such a thing you said is true (granted there are companies that exist that do that, but they do not sell gaming machines either). Lets see, Dell XPS is developed with the gamer in mind - considering Dell acquired Alienware, you would think they learned a thing or two. Parts are replaceable, including the CPU. Also, the Dell XPS is overclockable, just like any other gaming rig. You can use on-board or off board sound. The only thing Dell does with the XPS is make its own motherboard BTX style - it has an NForce chipset needed by SLI. Bottom line, the Dell XPS is no different from any other gaming rig from Alienware, Falcon Northwest, or etc. If you want you can swap out memory, sound cards, ram, graphics cards, CPU like you can with any other machine. Dell would not make any money from hardcore gamers if they could not change out parts. Lastly, Dell XPS has very good ratings as a solid gaming PC.

Do your research.

Alienware and Dell have merged.  They are still ran seperately.  Alienware gains the financial backing of Dell, so they can put more money into development.  Dell gains knowledge from Alienware and more credibility in the gaming community.  Dell has come a long ways toward gaming.  Years ago their gaming rigs were so so at best, but not anymore.

[Torn]

sweet, thanks info.

The last gaming rig I bought a few years ago was a Dell and I had mixed feelings about it. I'm glad to see they have started cleaning up their stuff. I liked their customer service though, so it's good that I don't have to cross em off the list.

[Hellstorm]

I run a Dell XPS 700. Only 2 months old. I am very happy with it.

[Torn]

the 710's are really sweet looking, yeah. It's funny how they're getting into weird looking case design now too. The XPS I have now looks nasty!

[Sirpsycho]

www.ibuypower.com  they build comp only for gamers

[Ninja]

Dell XPS's are pieces of crap.  I've worked in several gaming companies and those that got the XPS returned them to Dell because they were always breaking.  The stats look good, everything looks good, but after using it for awhile they break a lot and have many issues.  Alienware are great gaming computers but expensive as hell, and you'd be far better off building a custom one with parts from Newegg or something.

[Hellstorm]

The Dell XPS is fine and good computer. 

[Shoat]

From my experience...Dells are hit or miss.  I've had machines that can take a pounding and they keep rolling for years.  I've also had machines that had to be serviced left and right with anything ranging to hds dying, lcd screens breaking, video cards burning out, motherboards needing replacement, everything and repeatedly.  My only suggestion with Dells is to get some mild warranty service because if it starts crapping out, it usually starts pretty soon.

[Hellstorm]

If you are talking Del Dimensions I will agree. The XPS are a much higher end machine and they are pretty solid. For these computers to even appeal to gamers, the XPS has to be a solid, upgradeable machine, with name brand parts. Maybe I am lucky.