"I've had my new Puget custom system for about two weeks, and I'll say--at the risk of jinxing myself--that I'm very, very impressed.
When I decided that it was time for a new PC, I did quite a bit of online research to figure out who I wanted to buy from. I'm a medical student, and didn't have a ton of time either to put a system together myself or deal with constant problems on a built system. I compared prices at ibuypower, cyberpower, Falcon NW, and Velocity Micro, and looked into hardware reviews online. Ultimately, I came down to ibuypower and Puget; it was price vs. quality. An online review from a couple years ago, directly comparing the two companies, helped me decide that, if I was going to spend more than $2K, I'd better do it wisely.
I configured my system on Puget's site, and really enjoyed the blurbs that the staff has written on the pros and cons of nearly every part. Then, when I had questions, I emailed them in late on a Friday night. I didn't expect to hear from anyone until Monday at the soonest, but Wilson Chau responded within 24 hours. Not only did he answer questions specifically regarding their build and process, but he also pointed me to an affordable student version of Office 2010 (even though he could have just sold me the version on their site for $100 more.)
The build process was as smooth as can be; every step is documented and explained online, and updated in real time. You can see your system's benchmarks in all sorts of applications, thermal images, and BIOS setup screens for reference.
The system ended up arriving a day BEFORE it was scheduled. The packing was quite thorough and no parts were loose. On opening the case, the wires were all neatly arranged for maximum airflow.
I have had NO problems with my new computer thus far, and couldn't be happier--it runs like a dream. Support is very responsive and proactive, and the process is transparent. I'd recommend Puget Systems to anyone who wants to custom-build but still needs some support, for whatever reason. They are an excellent company who keeps their word--and I don't generally write reviews this glowing. This is one time that you can trust all the positive comments online. Check out the Better Business Bureau review if you're not sure.
Thanks to everyone at Puget. Great work! I'll buy from you as long as you're around. "
"Best computers money can buy. The detail they go to, to get you the absolute best machine is amazing."
"I cannot speak too highly of my experience with Puget Systems. They worked with me to build a computer that deviated a bit from their standard configurations. They were very responsive in answering questions. I was able to configure a system that met my needs in 24 hours all without requiring a phone call.
They customized Windows 7 to best reflect my configuration. For example, they turned off virtual storage which is best for 12 gb ram. A Windows restore dvd with this configuration was supplied that I had to use in the first two weeks when I took ownership of the c drive (Never do this. Windows 7 will not tell you this, but it makes your system unusable in the long run. The only solution is to restore the base system.)
They keep you well informed during the whole build process. For $130 they overclocked my i7-980x from 3.33 to 4.0 ghz. I know some will sneer at paying to have their machine overclocked, but if you aren't interested in learning how to overclock this is a great deal.
They were even very responsive answering a question after I had received my machine.
When it's time to replace this machine, Puget will be the first place I look."
"I ordered a custom water-cooled computer from Puget Sound and have been very pleased with the result after a week of use. Their parts selection was excellent, so I didn't have to skimp on component. The build quality is excellent. The interior of the case is well-organized, so there are not wires running in all directions. The water-cooling is rock-solid. The noise level is a quiet hum, which is readily drowned out by games or music.
The order process also deserves commendation. My first system design was reviewed by one of their reps, who not only suggested improvements, but also suggested changes that reduced the total cost of the system. Once I placed my order, they regularly updated their website to inform me of their progress throughout the build, including posting the results of their benchmarking tests.
The only minor negative during the order process came during shipping. Due to a delay getting a part from a supplier, they missed their estimated shipping date (Wednesday). Puget said that if I upgraded to Next Day Air, I could receive the PC on Friday, before the weekend. I did so, but then Puget didn't finish the packing (the PC was very well-protected in its shipping container) in time to meet the FedEx truck, so the PC would now arrive on Monday. However, Puget paid the extra cost for Saturday delivery, so I received it Saturday morning. While I would have preferred to have it on Friday, Puget demonstrated again that they do care about customer service and ensured I at least got the next best thing.
Based on the foregoing, I would strongly recommend Puget to anyone. "
"Excellent service and support ordering, during assembly, and after receipt. Everything associated with Puget Computer Systems has been high quality. "
"The people at Puget are the best people I have ever bought a product from. They are knowledgeable, helpful and will answer all questions no matter how small or large. The customer service team really sealed the deal for me. I was looking for a computer to do 3d modeling, rendering and some animation. I had no idea what I needed. Jeff presented me with a number of options, not to mention immediate responses to my questions, while trying to stay within a budget. My computer arrived shortly after in high design, thoughtful and sturdy packaging. These guys really know what they are doing and take pride in their company, product and have great respect for the customer.
I have referred them to everyone I know looking for a computer from hi end rendering and CGI to my mother and her home PC.
I will definitely buy from them in the future."
"Awesome service and excellent quality product. Good advice from the seller - including suggesting changes that lowered the cost whilst maintaining the quality. Delivery was prompt and the system arrived well packed and fully functional. Would highly recommend."
"I have had a wonderful experience with Puget systems. I would not hesitate to recommend their company to anyone who is in the market for a new computer system. The website is awesome. It allows you to choose the components you want and build a system specific to your wants and needs. I built four systems before I purchased just because it was so much fun. All the components are explained in easy to understand terms which is great for people who are less tech saavy. And there are professionals available to review the system you put together and advise if there are better options available. I was nervous once the system was delivered and unpacked because I have yet to have a good experience with newly purchased electronic equipment working properly. But, much to my delight, the setup was simple and everything worked perfectly. "Custom built" is undoubtedly more expensive than "out of the box from a store", but well worth it. I am thrilled with my Puget Systems computer. "
"Excellent as always, Ive ordered from them numerous times and have never been disappointed."
"I am so glad I found Puget Systems. I got an incredibly fast computer for a very reasonable price and the service has been wonderful. By the way, I'm a very average home computer user (news, shopping, photos), and didn't need something over the top. I was a little hesitant at first to consider Puget because I thought they only catered to very high end power users but after my first phone call, I knew I didn't have to worry about that. What a pleasure dealing with a small company with real people who know their stuff and take pride in their work. "
"Simply awesome. Pre-sales support was great, helping me to purchase what I needed (and helping me NOT spend more on things that would not materially improve my computer's performance).
They kept me up to date on the progress of the build and shipment.
I needed a bit of technical support after booting up my computer for the first time, and I got excellent support by e-mail, by chat, and by phone.
Couldn't be better!"
"I've already recommended Puget Systems to several of my colleagues who are in the market for a high end custom system. I'm very impressed with the customer service all throughout the process of building my system. In particular, Jeff worked with me to get the best system I could get, and just as important, kept me informed every step of the way. I obsessed over this process, and Jeff humored me, responding within minutes to all my emails. The constant updates on Puget's website (status, benchmarks, photos, etc) is fantastic, and something you just don't get anywhere else. That part of the process really told me that these guys really like what they do, and it carries over to the way the approach customer service and sales. My system is due to arrive tomorrow, and I can't wait to show it of, and put it to work making me some money!"
"Puget Custom Computers exceeded my expectations! Customer Service reviewed my initial specifications and suggested lower cost alternatives to meed my needs. Build time was just 7 days. The machine arrived in perfect condition built exactly to my specifications. No junkware or trial software. The machine is wicked fast and absolutely silent (except when the CD-ROM drive spins up). If you want the ultimate machine combined with excellent customer service, this is the company for you."
"Although it's not necessarily true in these times, his transaction proves to me that you get what you pay for. Jeff Stubbers' patient and knowledgeable guidance and Christopher Crader's after-sale support made this a very gratifying purchase, indeed.
Jeff configured a system that gave as much performance as I needed, with no excess. The system meets and exceeds my hope and expectations. I wanted a system that would run most of my legacy hardware and software but have the technology for leading-edge S/W and H/W at a later date.
Christopher gave immediate support when some of my legacy hardware and software behaved unpredictably. In the end, it all worked once I acknowledged and accommodated their age.
As others before me have said, the packaging and testing were way above par.
In summary, Puget Custom Computers represents the quality that once symbolized American products."
"We just purchased two computers from puget and every step of the way was a pleasure.
When researching what we wanted to buy, puget salespeople were very helpful with advice about what would and wouldn't work for us. They even steered us to purchase the peripherals we wanted elsewhere for less instead of trying to force things on us where there would be no benefit to buying from them.
The computers came in short order in the most nicely and brilliantly packed boxes I've ever seen. Every piece was well labelled and packed for shipping. The boxes will be easily reusable to ship the computers again if we ever need to.
Each computer also came with a folder of benchmarks, notes, contact information for vendors, and original installation disks for everything that made up our computer. This seems to be unheard of from all the big computer companies.
I may never build my own computer or buy a computer from anyone else again."