Building a computer from parts can be fun and rewarding, but it’s also possible to do it for money. 

There are many ways to make money by building computers, from custom builds for clients to building systems for businesses.

There are also many websites and forums where people buy, sell, or trade parts or whole systems.

What Is Building a Computer?

In simple terms, building a computer uses readily available parts to create a working computer. 

Building a computer starts with a motherboard, a CPU (central processing unit), a graphics card, and a hard drive. 

Using these components, you can then add RAM (random access memory) and a case to make the computer completely.

You can use a variety of parts to build a computer, such as:

Motherboard: The motherboard holds all the hardware, such as the CPU, RAM, and storage.

CPU – The CPU runs your computer and is the engine that makes your computer run. The CPU can be replaced without having to replace the computer.

Graphics Card: The graphics card is what converts the computer’s data into an image and displays it on the screen. The graphics card can be replaced without having to replace the computer.

Hard Drive: The hard drive is where all your computer’s data is stored and where the operating system (OS) is stored. The hard drive can be replaced without having to replace the computer.

How to Build a Computer for Money

There are many ways to make money by building computers. Here are a few examples:

Custom Builds – If you are comfortable building a computer from the ground up, you can sell complete systems to businesses. 

You can use the money from the sales to buy more parts or upgrade the computer.

Selling Old Computers – If you have an old computer that you no longer use, you can sell it on online auction sites or in nearby flea markets. 

You can use the money from the sale to buy new computers or equipment.

Freelancing – If you are willing to spend some time building a computer, you can find work online as a freelance computer technician. 

You can use the money from the jobs to buy more equipment or upgrade the computer.

Building a Computer From Parts

If you are willing to build a computer from raw materials, you can buy individual parts and assemble them yourself. Here are the steps:

Rescue old computers – While it may seem like a good idea to save old computers to complete projects, there is a danger of damaging the components. 

If you plan on doing most of your building without a computer, you don’t have to be too cautious. 

However, keep in mind that even though you are building a computer from scratch, there will probably be a chance something goes wrong.

Moreover, if something goes wrong, you will probably have to pay to repair or replace it.

Bulk Buy – If you are willing to buy large numbers of components, bulk buy sites are a good way to go. 

These sites will give you much lower prices than buying individual parts. You can also go to local stores and buy in large quantities.

Shop for Salvage – If parts won’t fit in with your other projects or are willing to do some creative mind mapping, you can go to a salvage yard and find whatever parts are broken or no longer work in a computer. 

You can use the parts to rebuild your old computer and then send it to the salvager for disposal.

Buying Used Parts

If you want to save some money and get super lucky, you can buy used parts. A great way to do this is to do computer builds for clients. 

Clients will usually buy a complete computer from you, understanding that you’ll replace the parts that they don’t use with your parts.

You can usually find these parts at a lower price than if you bought them new.

Buying Used Computers – If you are looking for a cheap way to build computers, you may want to consider buying a used computer. 

A couple of websites will list used computers for sale, including Craigslist and eBay. You can usually find great deals on these sites.

Pros of Building Your Own Computer

If you are willing to put in the time and effort, building your computer can be a rewarding way to make money. Here are some benefits of building your computer:

You control the project – With a custom build, you don’t have access to the same materials and components as the client. 

You could end up using parts that the client used and could damage their computer. By building your own computer, you can choose parts that are right for your build.

You are responsible for the design – With a custom build, you are responsible for designing the computer. 

This can be a great way to show your project-management skills and ensure that the design follows the proper process.

Sell your spare parts – If you are building a computer for a client, you may be asked to sell some of the parts you use. 

This can be a great way to make money, as you won’t have to buy anything and can earn money from your spare parts.

How to Sell Your Old Computer for Money

If you are willing to sell your old computer for the money, here are some tips:

Check your computer’s model number – You should be able to look up the model number of your computer on the Internet. If not, you might want to sell it on Craigslist or eBay. 

These are two of the largest websites where used computers are listed.

Lean on your network – While you don’t need to sell your computer all at once, it is good to keep checking on eBay or Craigslist to see if someone is interested in your computer. 

If someone is selling theirs, you might be able to make some money on the trade.

Keep your image clean – If someone is going to buy a computer from you, they should be able to look at your computer and see something useful. 

Avoid the temptation to “hack” your computer by adding extra features or software. Your goal is to get as much money as possible, not be cute or “cool” with your computer.

How to Make Money by Doing Custom Builds

If you are looking for a more passive way to make money by building computers, look no further. 

There are websites where people buy, sell, or trade parts or whole systems. Here are a few examples:

Newegg – Newegg is a leading online retailer of new and used computers, electronics, and games. 

They have some of the best deals online and are very trustworthy. You can often find great deals on refurbished computers.

CompUSA – CompUSA, now owned by Best Buy, used to sell computers, laptops, and other electronics. They are often willing to trade parts or complete systems for old computers.

PSTN – PSTN, now owned by Avid, used to sell computers and related accessories. They also used to trade parts or complete systems for old computers.

LaptopsDirect – LaptopsDirect is a leading online retailer of laptops, tablets, and convertibles. They have lots of great deals and are very trustworthy. You can often find great deals on refurbished laptops.

Find a Client Who Needs a Computer

If you are willing to build computers for individuals but want to make money by selling the computers, here are a few examples:

Home-Use – If you are willing to make computers for home use, you can often find great deals on refurbished computers. You can often get free shipping with these purchases.

Business Use – If you are willing to build computers for businesses, you can often find great deals on refurbished computers.

FAQs

Building custom computers is a great way to make money. With the right tools and knowledge, you can create powerful machines that can do anything from light work to serious tasks. If you’re interested in getting started, check out the resources listed at the end of this article. You can turn your hobby into a profitable business with a little effort.