I personally like the kits because I like to build
them, get them
working, and support other vintage computing hobbyists and their projects.
I prefer kits for many reasons :
They normally come with adequate documatation.
I can assmeble them with 'proper' leadad solder, so connections stay good
I will use quality paets where I can. Turned-pin DIL sockets, 105 degree
capacitors, etc. Not the cheapest parts all the time
I can make any modifiactions I need to.
-tony