PC Builders
Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes Last updated on 5th November 2012
During the 1990's, personal computing went from being a largely business occupation to one that was the cause of the machines ending up in nearly every home. The home market penetration went from a very low level at the start of the decade to saturation by the time it ended. Such was the success of PC's that they kick-started an economic boom in my native Éire that lasted a decade and left a very hefty financial hangover.
In the 1990's, the main competition between personal computing platforms was between desktop and laptop PC's. Today, we have smartphones and tablets soaking up the limelight instead. Compared to those more alluring gadgets, it may seem that desktop PC's don't have the shine that they once enjoyed, but enthusiasts for the devices remain that ensure a continued consumer market, especially in the world of computer gaming.
The diversification in the personal computing market may feel a little like a throwback to the 1980's when there was even more of that. It has meant that desktop and laptop PC's no longer have it all to themselves, and that is causing problems for mainstream manufacturers and software companies. The result is that many UK PC builders offer a choice of both and these are smaller operations than the likes of Dell, which can respond to customer preferences in a more agile way.
Because desktop PC's aren't as prominent now, I have decided to start a list of those companies that still make them. A number of these also sell components and peripherals, so could end up on the More Computing Equipment page too. The apparent duplication may not be what I normally would do, but for the need to facilitate those seeking the desktop PC option. So, here are the beginnings of that list that I promised:
Box is a UK-based technology retailer that specializes in a wide range of electronics, including laptops, monitors, and accessories. They emphasize the importance of laptops for both students and professionals, providing options for various needs and budgets. Additionally, Box provides flexible payment options such as 0% interest PayPal Pay in 3, making it easier for customers to manage their purchases.
CCL is a UK retailer specializing in custom-built PCs, laptops, and components, catering to both gamers and professionals. Known for offering a wide selection of hardware and peripherals, CCL provides competitive pricing and build options for tailored computing solutions.
Chillblast is a UK manufacturer of high-performance custom PCs and laptops, particularly recognized for their gaming systems. They focus on quality components and offer extensive customization options, while receiving awards for their products and customer service.
Cyberpower is a global provider of custom gaming PCs and workstations known for their performance-oriented systems. They offer a variety of pre-configured systems as well as fully customizable options to meet specific user needs.
Dell is a multinational technology company that provides a wide range of computers, laptops, servers, and accessories. They are recognized for their reliable products across various sectors, including consumer electronics, business solutions, and enterprise-level infrastructure.
Falcon Computers specializes in high-end custom computers and workstations designed for gaming and professional use. They are known for powerful configurations and premium build quality that cater to enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Gladiator PC focuses on building high-performance gaming PCs tailored to individual specifications. They offer a range of customizable options to suit different gaming needs and budgets.
Mesh Computers is a UK-based manufacturer specializing in custom-built PCs and laptops. They offer a wide range of products from budget systems to high-end gaming rigs with extensive customization options.
MSI (Micro-Star International) is a Taiwanese multinational that produces computer hardware and peripherals, including motherboards, graphics cards, laptops, and gaming systems. They are well-known for their gaming laptops and desktop components that emphasize performance and aesthetics.
Novatech is a UK retailer offering various IT products including custom-built PCs, laptops, components, and accessories. They focus on providing tailored computing solutions alongside competitive pricing.
Overclockers UK specializes in high-performance computer hardware and custom-built gaming PCs. They are known for their expertise in overclocking technology and providing enthusiast-grade components.
Palicomp is a UK-based retailer that specializes in custom-built PCs for gaming and professional use. They offer extensive customization options along with competitive pricing on their systems.
PC Specialist is a UK manufacturer that provides custom-built computers tailored to individual specifications. They offer a wide range of configurations for gaming PCs, workstations, and laptops with an emphasis on quality components.
Quiet PC specializes in silent computing solutions, offering low-noise PCs and components designed to minimize sound output while maintaining performance.
Scan Computers is a UK-based retailer known for its extensive range of computer hardware, peripherals, and custom-built systems across various categories including gaming PCs and workstation builds.
Stone Group provides IT solutions including hardware manufacturing and managed services primarily focused on education and public sector organizations in the UK while emphasizing sustainability through the refurbishment of IT equipment.
UK Gaming Computers specializes in custom-built gaming PCs designed to meet the needs of gamers at various levels, offering personalized configurations with an emphasis on performance components tailored for gaming.
Utopia Computers focuses on providing high-quality refurbished computers along with new systems tailored to customer needs, while emphasizing value through refurbished offerings.
Wired2Fire is known for building high-performance gaming PCs customized to user specifications, offering competitive pricing along with an emphasis on quality components suitable for serious gamers.
Yoyotech specializes in high-performance gaming PCs and workstations tailored to enthusiast users, offering extensive customization options along with pre-built systems designed for optimal performance in gaming scenarios.