Got an ancient laptop or desktop lying around? We tell you how to transform an old PC into an NAS, experiment with a new OS, build your own security cam, and more.

For many years, it's usually been cheaper to build your own PC using hand-selected components than purchase a pre-built machine, but is that still true in 2026?

Building your own PC is kind of like cooking: deeply satisfying if you know what you're doing, mildly traumatic if you don't. Pre-builts, meanwhile, are microwave meals. Not bad, not great, and ...