For a beginner, I think a build is a good idea. Everyone should start with building a 2wd electric vehicle, imo... I have to say, though, I've enjoyed getting race rollers lately and taking them out of the box and hitting the track asap. Then I go home and make changes. Obviously the build is not as vital for me from the beginning as I've been doing this since 1987 and have built my share of kits...