Where Do You Buy Components - Honest Experience Wanted

Hey, I though I'd toss up this question because I'm working on a new build to replace my current out of date 3gb Motherboard on one of my two household desktops. Already bought the SSD (256GB Samsung SSD 850Pro for the OS and the software programs; not data)

For the past years I have bought mostly from NewEgg and some from BH Photo. Not as pleased with NE as I used to be. Made me wonder - How safe is it to buy components like motherboards and "big dollar" CPU's on EBAY??? For some reason I have always had a lump in my throat about EBAY purchasing - for anything. Note - I have had some good experiences with RAM and a few other small ticket 'non-computer' items.

And then we have the issues of returns. NE and BH are great at handling returns. However, I never have had to return a motherboard or CPU.

NE, BH, TigerDirect, and Fry's seem to be 'some' of the ones with best prices. However, Tiger I think is on the way out; less and less retail locations by the month.

Nonetheless, all said and done, my main question (sort of) is this: what do you think about EBAY for motherboards and CPU's. One last thing ... I, more or less, am asking about the small stores on EBAY. I don't think I could ever bring myself to buy a motherboard or a CPU from a heinz 57 private seller. (heinz 57 seller definition: one who sells everything from armpit soap to zebra saddles and a computer part somewhere in the middle)

So ... where have you been buying your components???

Curiously,

Dekade

P.S. - I hope the MG moderators allow this thread because of it mentioning/discussing actual vendors by name.

 

NE and Amazon for me.
I use EBAY for finding vendors then contact them directly.

 

Not a bad idea DOA. Do they seem to respond in a courteous business like fashion?

 

I have had great luck with it. Currently I am buying 30 solar panels I found on EBAY directly from a vendor I found there. They are very cooperative.