Barebone PCs and branded prebuilt PCs differ in multiple aspects, as detailed below:

1. Flexibility of Hardware Configuration
 

Barebone PCs: Only include basic hardware such as the case, motherboard, and power supply (some also come with a CPU cooler). Users can freely select and install core components like memory, hard drives, graphics cards, and operating systems based on their specific needs, allowing for high customization to match unique requirements.
For example, gamers can choose high-performance graphics cards and large-capacity memory, while video creators can pair large-capacity hard drives with professional graphics cards—ensuring no "redundant hardware" or "performance bottlenecks" from preconfigured setups.

Branded Prebuilt PCs: All hardware (including CPU, memory, hard drive, graphics card, and operating system) is preconfigured by the brand manufacturer. The configuration options are relatively fixed, and users have limited choices for customizing component combinations, making it difficult to fully meet extreme personalized needs. However, some brands offer a small number of optional configuration packages.

2. Price
 

Barebone PCs: The cost of basic hardware is relatively low, and the final total price depends on the other components users purchase independently. If users opt for high-end hardware, the overall cost may be high; but if they choose cost-effective accessories, they can build a PC that meets their needs at a lower cost. This is appealing to users who are familiar with the hardware market and pursue cost-effectiveness.

Branded Prebuilt PCs: Costs related to R&D, production, and after-sales service are included in the selling price. Generally, under the same hardware configuration, branded prebuilt PCs are more expensive than self-assembled barebone PCs. Nevertheless, branded prebuilt PCs may occasionally offer products with good cost-effectiveness during promotional activities.

3. After-Sales Service

Barebone PCs: Hardware components may come from different manufacturers, resulting in more complex after-sales service. When a hardware issue arises, users need to contact the corresponding manufacturer for support—making the process cumbersome and potentially time-consuming.

Branded Prebuilt PCs: Brand manufacturers provide unified after-sales service. In case of a malfunction, users only need to contact the brand’s official after-sales department, which will be responsible for inspection and repair. The process is relatively simple, with usually faster response times and problem-solving efficiency. Additional value-added services such as on-site repair and data recovery may also be available.

4. Stability and Compatibility
 

Barebone PCs: Users need to manage hardware compatibility themselves. While most hardware components are compatible, compatibility issues may still occur due to improper hardware matching. However, if users have basic hardware knowledge and select components reasonably, the stability of the barebone PC can still be guaranteed.

Branded Prebuilt PCs: During production, brand manufacturers conduct strict testing and optimization of hardware to ensure compatibility and stability between components. The PC undergoes a series of quality inspections and debugging, resulting in high stability and a low probability of compatibility issues.

5. Design and Case Layout

Barebone PCs: Case and exterior design are relatively simple, focusing on basic functionality. Less investment is made in exterior personalization and optimization of the internal case structure.

Branded Prebuilt PCs: Brand manufacturers prioritize product design, offering a variety of case styles that are more visually appealing. Some high-end branded prebuilt PCs also incorporate unique design elements and lighting effects. The internal layout of the case is carefully designed to ensure neat hardware installation and cable management, which is beneficial for heat dissipation and maintenance.