HP pricing and custom build vs pre-built options

Hi,
I've just ordered a Hp zd8080, mainly because for various reasons I couldn't wait for a custom model to be built. However, checking out Hp.com now you can see that you can build a custom model for the same price as the zd8080 except with dual layer DVD burner, faster RAM, the 650 processor instead of the 550 and a higher resolution screen all for about the same price as the zd8080.
This doesn't really make much sense to me as I would have thought it would cost Hp more to custom build laptops as opposed to mass-producing pre-built options. Also, how come, if this is to be a "flagship" product the model isn't updated to include the latest components? Why is the custom build option such better value?
I can't quite work out the logic here and I'm a little annoyed that I'm missing out on the faster RAM, better CPU and dual-layer DVD burner.
Can anyone shed some light on this?

Cheers,
Phill

 

----------Why is the custom build option such better value?----------



Cheers Phil,
You got it all backwards,
Savvy buyers always customise their laptops .
You always get cheaper that way and also you get higher specifications.
You got it all wrong way,I am sorry to say.
Any way you learned by experience [:0]

 

Sounds like phill should return his incoming laptop and order a custom made one. The major issue with 'custom' is the excrutiating weight from Shanghai, China versus a ready made/read to ship in a day model. It can take up to 2 weeks in waiting.

Before I ordered my DV1000 I priced both and found it cheaper to get the customizable version.

Dell Inspiron 6000
1.6 GHZ Centrino (Sonoma)
WUXGA 15.4" WS
512 MB RAM
60 GB HD
Wireless B/G
DVD/CD-RW
9 Cell Battery x 2
Mozilla Firefox Browser
Targus TL Deluxe Notebook Case
Targus Gravity Notebook Backpack
---
Palmone Tungsten C/WIFI

 

Hi,
Yes, the wait is the problem. However, I think it's worth it. I'm going to see about cancelling and ordering a custom built model. Reckon I'll go all out and put 2gigs of RAM into it as well as the 650 processor!

Wish me luck! [ ]

 

Hey Phil, if you decide on the ZD8000 custom, you can save more money on the faster ram if you order it with 256mb and order your ram from newegg. Deck that 8000 out with all the options and you will still save HUNDREDS, no TV tuner though, but you can get that aftermarket if you really want it. Check out our X6000 post. The ZD8000 and X6000 are just about identicle.

X6000 / P-4 3.2GHz (540) / 2gigs PC2 4200 (533MHz) DDR2 Ram / 7200RPM 60 gig HHD / 8x DVD Burner and the Brightview!

 

Mine is custom and only as at $2199.99. The specs are in my sig. The only downfall is I got Windows Home & a regular 56k modem in the baby.

HP ZD8000 | 3.4GHz P4 | 100 GB 5400 RPM Hard Drive | 1GB RAM | 256MB ATI Mobility Radeon X600 | 17" WSXGA+ Wide View

 

Do you play any high end games on your zd8000?


-pc

 

Yes I plan to pcfitness such as Half Life 2, Far Cry, WoW, etc. Mine is still on order.

HP ZD8000 | 3.4GHz P4 650 w/HT Tech | 100 GB 5400 RPM Hard Drive | 1GB RAM, 533 MHz | 256MB ATI Mobility Radeon X600 | 17" WSXGA+ Wide View

 

Plus why do you ask pcfitness? [?]

Also Phill my coworker and pal bought the ZD 8080 before me, I opted to wait the 2 to 3 weeks and get the extra's for the same price.

HP ZD8000 | 3.4GHz P4 650 w/HT Tech | 100 GB 5400 RPM Hard Drive | 1GB DDR2 SDRAM, 533 MHz | 256MB ATI Mobility Radeon X600 | 17" WSXGA+ Wide View | DVD+/-RW/R CD-RW Combo w/Double Layer

 

I've decided on the custom built option. Should be ready by April 8th if I get my order in today. Can't wait! The option for the 650 processor has dissappeared though. Looks like I will have to go with the 640 and .2 GHz less, it's not a deal breaker though and it keeps an extra few dollars in my pocket! I've also got Half Life 2 coming to me next week, so that'll be the first thing going on!

 

I have the same ship date however already know it is already in the factory since I called Status Support to make sure everything with my order went well. She even mentioned that the date could be much earlier!!!!

Although it is strange for HP to move down the P4 from 650 to 640 and from 3.4Ghz to 3.2Ghz. I dont think it was a special?

UPDATE: Just checked their website and YES they did remove the P4 650 at 3.4GHz [ ]

HP ZD8000 | 3.4GHz P4 650 w/HT Tech | 100 GB 5400 RPM Hard Drive | 1GB DDR2 SDRAM, 533 MHz | 256MB ATI Mobility Radeon X600 | 17" WSXGA+ Wide View | DVD+/-RW/R CD-RW Combo w/Double Layer