Buying an OEM computer (Dell, Gateway, etc.) is a good idea if: 1) You need the software bundle (or especially if you are a first time computer buyer) 2) You do not, and have no friends who, feel comfortable working with computer components, or 3) You are actually replacing an outdated computer completely (monitor, CPU, case, etc.) and have a home for the old one. 4) You want/need "one stop shopping" for warranty support. In these cases it can be cheaper to buy a pre-packaged machine.