For many tech enthusiasts, building their own computer system is an exciting prospect. To do this, you need to find the best spots for new and used computer components. Luckily, the US is home to a multitude of retailers offering a variety of parts, from CPUs to graphics cards. Here, we take a look at the top 10 best places to purchase new and used computer components in 2023.
1. Amazon
History: Founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos, Amazon started as an online marketplace for books but quickly expanded to other products, including computer components.
What They Sell: Amazon sells an extensive range of new and used computer components, from processors and motherboards to SSDs and graphic cards.
Address: Amazon is an online platform, so you can shop from anywhere in the US.
How to Get Great Bargains: The best time to get deals on Amazon is during sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day. You can also regularly check their “Today’s Deals” section.
2. Newegg
History: Newegg was founded in 2001 and has since been a preferred destination for tech enthusiasts searching for computer parts and electronics.
What They Sell: Newegg offers a wide array of new and used computer components, including CPUs, motherboards, RAM, and more.
Address: Newegg is primarily an online retailer.
How to Get Great Bargains: Newegg frequently offers sales and deals, particularly around holiday periods. Signing up for their newsletter ensures you get notified about their latest discounts.
3. Micro Center
History: Micro Center was founded in 1979 and has been a reliable source of electronics and computer parts.
What They Sell: Micro Center provides a diverse selection of new and used computer components, including processors, motherboards, graphics cards, and hard drives.
Address: Micro Center has 25 locations across the US, with stores in major cities like New York (850 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11232) and Houston (5305 S Rice Ave, Houston, TX 77081).
How to Get Great Bargains: Micro Center offers “Hot Ad Deals” which change regularly. Be sure to check their website or in-store for these deals.
4. Best Buy
History: Founded in 1966, Best Buy is a leading provider of technology products and services.
What They Sell: Best Buy sells a variety of new computer components such as CPUs, GPUs, RAM, and SSDs.
Address: Best Buy has numerous stores across the US. A notable one is located in Los Angeles (11301 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064).
How to Get Great Bargains: Best Buy offers weekly sales and deals, especially around holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
5. Fry’s Electronics
History: Established in 1985, Fry’s Electronics was a go-to spot for tech enthusiasts, but as of 2021, it has ceased operations.
6. B&H Photo Video
History: B&H was founded in 1973 and is one of the largest non-chain photo and video equipment stores in the US.
What They Sell: B&H sells new computer components, including CPUs, graphics cards, motherboards, and more.
Address: B&H has a massive store in New York City (420 9th Ave, New York, NY 10001).
How to Get Great Bargains: B&H has a “Deal Zone” section on its website where you can find daily deals and discounts.
7. eBay
History: Founded in 1995, eBay is an online marketplace where individuals can buy and sell items, including computer components.
What They Sell: eBay is a platform where you can find both new and used computer components from various sellers.
Address: eBay is an online marketplace, accessible from any location.
How to Get Great Bargains: Auction-style listings often offer the best deals, but always check the seller’s ratings before purchasing.
8. TigerDirect
History: TigerDirect was established in 1985 and has been a consistent supplier of IT products, services, and solutions.
What They Sell: TigerDirect sells new and refurbished computer components, such as processors, hard drives, and graphic cards.
Address: TigerDirect operates primarily online.
How to Get Great Bargains: TigerDirect offers daily deals, weekly ads, and clearance sales.
9. OutletPC
History: OutletPC was founded in 2001 and is a reliable e-commerce site for computer components.
What They Sell: OutletPC sells new computer parts, including processors, RAM, graphics cards, and motherboards.
Address: OutletPC operates primarily online.
How to Get Great Bargains: OutletPC offers deals and clearance sales on a variety of products.
10. Craigslist
History: Established in 1995, Craigslist is an online classified ads website where you can find a broad range of items, including computer components.
What They Sell: Craigslist is an online marketplace for new and used computer components sold by individuals.
Address: Craigslist is an online platform, accessible from any location.
How to Get Great Bargains: Since Craigslist is a platform for individual sellers, you can negotiate the price directly with the seller. Be sure to meet in a public location for safety when buying.
Conclusion
Purchasing computer components can be a straightforward and enjoyable process, especially when you know where to look and how to snag the best deals. Whether you’re a first-time builder or a seasoned PC enthusiast, these locations offer a wealth of options for your next project. As a final tip, always remember to research thoroughly before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting the best price for quality components.
