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When using this resource, please read FragKrag's opening post. The Tech Support forum regulars have helped create countless of desktop systems without any compensation. The least you can do is provide all of the information required for them to help you properly. |
hey there, im planning to set up a new gaming rig since my current one is kinda outdated for the newer games...
first things first, i already got alot of help from the very very nice Shikyo to set up this build.
the only thing i want to know right now is, if i could make this build better since i still got ~100€ in my budget left
Complete build (sorry that it is in german):
link is here!
Mainboard:
ASRock P67 Pro3 Intel P67 So.1155 Dual
CPU:
i5 2500K
Graphic:
1024MB Gigabyte GeForce GTX 560 Ti OC
Cooler:
ARCTIC COOLING Freezer 13 Pro
PSU:
550W SuperFlower Golden Green Pro 80plus
Ram:
8GB TeamGroup Elite DDR3-1333 DIMM CL9 Dual Kit
Case:
BitFenix Shinobi Midi tower black
HDD will be used from my current PC
1x250Gb 7.200rpm Samsung
2x1Tb 7.200rpm Samung
same goes for optical drives
eventually getting SSD card later on but not now
so here is my question again: can i get better/other parts that are within my budget (~100€ left) that will improve the PC by a lot?
planning to play: SC2/D3/GW2 on 1080p + setting up 2nd screen (24"main 22"2nd screen)
oh ye, and theres another question.... at what quality should i be able to stream if i might decide to do it in future? u can consider that if im going to stream i will OC the CPU to a level that is still safe and within the coolingrange of the cooler
thanks again to Shikyo for helping me so far, now its up to u guys!^^
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Budget: 600-650$
Resolution: 1600 x 900
Usage: Gaming
Upgrade Cycle: 2+ years
Overclocking: I want to do it. So, I would like more information if i can make this available, and how to do it.
OS: I do not need an OS
Crossfire: nope
Parts: I live in the united states, so I think I am buying from amazon, newegg, and other retailers.
I have outlined my build here and the price came out to be $548
CPU: AMD Phenom II x4 955 Black Edition - Many good reviews for this one. It seems to be the current go-to for the budget gamer.
Motherboard: ASUS M5A97 ATX AM3+ - I think this has everything I need. I don't know what Mobo to buy. It is compatible with my CPU. I think its OCfriendly, but am not sure.
HSF: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus - Will this Fan support OCing, and will it be the way inside the case? Since I am OCing, it was recommended I got a fan.
PSU: CORSAIR CX600 V2 600W - 80+ certified, which isnt bad I don't think. I think its good enough for my PC. Newegg says its good enough for a high end GPU and a multi-core CPU.
Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB 240pin DDR3 1600: Is getting 1600 over 1333 worth it for a few bucks? G.SKILL sponsors GSL, so I am buying from them.
GPU: I don't have a clear definition for this one. I am thinking of a 6850, 6950, or a 7000 series that is supposed to be coming out soon. I can wait a few months to get a good GPU. I do not want to Crossfire, but I would like a powerful gaming card for games like skyrim, sc2, and swtor. I want to spend like 200-240 $. ATI/AMD I think aswell..
Case: Gigabyte GZ-KF03B Black ATX Mid Tower - The description says it best: ideal for computer builders who'd rather spend their money on the contents, than on the case!
HDD: not sure on this one either. I think I have 2 HDDs(290 GB each) in my current PC. Does this mean I can get another OS legally?
OK so that is it. I know the price is less then the budget because I want to maybe buy a game or two if possible with my money. if one of my parts is lacking for the quality I am looking for let me know!! I went with an AMD build, because in my next build in like 5 years I think I want to try Intel. I think Intel/Nvidia outright beats AMD in the top of the line stuff, but I think for the middle-high stuff, AMD Is the best to go.
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On November 23 2011 07:53 Isaac wrote:+ Show Spoiler +Budget: 600-650$ Resolution: 1600 x 900 Usage: Gaming Upgrade Cycle: 2+ years Overclocking: I want to do it. So, I would like more information if i can make this available, and how to do it. OS: I do not need an OS Crossfire: nope Parts: I live in the united states, so I think I am buying from amazon, newegg, and other retailers. I have outlined my build here and the price came out to be $548CPU: AMD Phenom II x4 955 Black Edition - Many good reviews for this one. It seems to be the current go-to for the budget gamer. Motherboard: ASUS M5A97 ATX AM3+ - I think this has everything I need. I don't know what Mobo to buy. It is compatible with my CPU. I think its OCfriendly, but am not sure. HSF: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus - Will this Fan support OCing, and will it be the way inside the case? Since I am OCing, it was recommended I got a fan. PSU: CORSAIR CX600 V2 600W - 80+ certified, which isnt bad I don't think. I think its good enough for my PC. Newegg says its good enough for a high end GPU and a multi-core CPU. Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB 240pin DDR3 1600: Is getting 1600 over 1333 worth it for a few bucks? G.SKILL sponsors GSL, so I am buying from them. GPU: I don't have a clear definition for this one. I am thinking of a 6850, 6950, or a 7000 series that is supposed to be coming out soon. I can wait a few months to get a good GPU. I do not want to Crossfire, but I would like a powerful gaming card for games like skyrim, sc2, and swtor. I want to spend like 200-240 $. ATI/AMD I think aswell.. Case: Gigabyte GZ-KF03B Black ATX Mid Tower - The description says it best: ideal for computer builders who'd rather spend their money on the contents, than on the case! HDD: not sure on this one either. I think I have 2 HDDs(290 GB each) in my current PC. Does this mean I can get another OS legally? OK so that is it. I know the price is less then the budget because I want to maybe buy a game or two if possible with my money. if one of my parts is lacking for the quality I am looking for let me know!! I went with an AMD build, because in my next build in like 5 years I think I want to try Intel. I think Intel/Nvidia outright beats AMD in the top of the line stuff, but I think for the middle-high stuff, AMD Is the best to go.
Nope, you're wrong. Intel outright beats AMD even in the middle-high end stuff. Phenom II X4 was a good option last year for budget configurations but now that Sandybridge occupies every price point, there is no reason to purchase an Phenom II X4 for gaming when a Pentium G860 or core i3 2100 offer better performance and are both available at similar price point to that of a Phenom II X4 955.
Nope. It's not worth it to purchase 1600MHz over 1333MHz with your budget.
Just use a cardboard box if you want a shit case. No sense in wasting $20 for a shit case. I'm pretty sure such a shit case will not be capable of fitting a Hyper 212+ or 10.5" long cards such as the Radeon HD6950.
CX600V2 is a poor choice when there are better options available at the same price point such as the Seasonic S12II 520, XFX Core Edition 550, Earthwatts 650, Antec Neo Eco 520C, Antec High Current Gamer 520, etcetc. All of which are of higher quality and provide equal or more power than the CX600V2.
You can re-use your existing operating system if you don't want to purchase a new one. I'm not sure what you mean by getting another operating system legally because you own some harddriives..?
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The Patroit memory is $38 ($28 after mail in rebate). Not a sale, it's absolute shit actually since it's 1333MHz at 1.65v. Mushkin 1333MHz 1.5v were available for $30 ($25 after mail in rebate) a few days ago. Just get 4GB of memory for $20 or wait for a $30 sale on a 8gb kit.
The 6770 will allow you to play the games on medium-high at 1080p.
Bad idea to purchase a HDD from Newegg right now. A Seagate Barracuda 500GB can be had for $85 on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B005CT56R6/ and $90 at NCIX: http://us.ncix.com/products/?sku=63468
You can't really drop the price further without dropping down to a core i3 or wait on a sale for a Radeon HD6770.
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On November 23 2011 08:18 skyR wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 07:53 Isaac wrote:+ Show Spoiler +Budget: 600-650$ Resolution: 1600 x 900 Usage: Gaming Upgrade Cycle: 2+ years Overclocking: I want to do it. So, I would like more information if i can make this available, and how to do it. OS: I do not need an OS Crossfire: nope Parts: I live in the united states, so I think I am buying from amazon, newegg, and other retailers. I have outlined my build here and the price came out to be $548CPU: AMD Phenom II x4 955 Black Edition - Many good reviews for this one. It seems to be the current go-to for the budget gamer. Motherboard: ASUS M5A97 ATX AM3+ - I think this has everything I need. I don't know what Mobo to buy. It is compatible with my CPU. I think its OCfriendly, but am not sure. HSF: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus - Will this Fan support OCing, and will it be the way inside the case? Since I am OCing, it was recommended I got a fan. PSU: CORSAIR CX600 V2 600W - 80+ certified, which isnt bad I don't think. I think its good enough for my PC. Newegg says its good enough for a high end GPU and a multi-core CPU. Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB 240pin DDR3 1600: Is getting 1600 over 1333 worth it for a few bucks? G.SKILL sponsors GSL, so I am buying from them. GPU: I don't have a clear definition for this one. I am thinking of a 6850, 6950, or a 7000 series that is supposed to be coming out soon. I can wait a few months to get a good GPU. I do not want to Crossfire, but I would like a powerful gaming card for games like skyrim, sc2, and swtor. I want to spend like 200-240 $. ATI/AMD I think aswell.. Case: Gigabyte GZ-KF03B Black ATX Mid Tower - The description says it best: ideal for computer builders who'd rather spend their money on the contents, than on the case! HDD: not sure on this one either. I think I have 2 HDDs(290 GB each) in my current PC. Does this mean I can get another OS legally? OK so that is it. I know the price is less then the budget because I want to maybe buy a game or two if possible with my money. if one of my parts is lacking for the quality I am looking for let me know!! I went with an AMD build, because in my next build in like 5 years I think I want to try Intel. I think Intel/Nvidia outright beats AMD in the top of the line stuff, but I think for the middle-high stuff, AMD Is the best to go. Nope, you're wrong. Intel outright beats AMD even in the middle-high end stuff. Phenom II X4 was a good option last year for budget configurations but now that Sandybridge occupies every price point, there is no reason to purchase an Phenom II X4 for gaming when a Pentium G860 or core i3 2100 offer better performance and are both available at similar price point to that of a Phenom II X4 955. Nope. It's not worth it to purchase 1600MHz over 1333MHz with your budget. Just use a cardboard box if you want a shit case. No sense in wasting $20 for a shit case. I'm pretty sure such a shit case will not be capable of fitting a Hyper 212+ or 10.5" long cards such as the Radeon HD6950. CX600V2 is a poor choice when there are better options available at the same price point such as the Seasonic S12II 520, XFX Core Edition 550, Earthwatts 650, Antec Neo Eco 520C, Antec High Current Gamer 520, etcetc. All of which are of higher quality and provide equal or more power than the CX600V2. You can re-use your existing operating system if you don't want to purchase a new one. I'm not sure what you mean by getting another operating system legally because you own some harddriives..?
I was told that the AMD Phenom x4 II Black Edition overclocked outperforms the i3 2100. and about the case; I am not sure if that is sarcasm. I don't understand why I would want to waste money on a case. You are right about the PSU. I think I will switch over to the Antec EarthWatts.
and the 1600 MHz, if the different is like 3 dollars - what is the point of making 2 different kinds of memory.
edit; the corsair is -17$ if you buy a bundle with the memory on newegg - do you think that is worth it or not?
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On November 23 2011 08:28 skyR wrote:The Patroit memory is $38 ($28 after mail in rebate). Not a sale, it's absolute shit actually since it's 1333MHz at 1.65v. Mushkin 1333MHz 1.5v were available for $30 ($25 after mail in rebate) a few days ago. Just get 4GB of memory for $20 or wait for a $30 sale on a 8gb kit. The 6770 will allow you to play the games on medium-high at 1080p. Bad idea to purchase a HDD from Newegg right now. A Seagate Barracuda 500GB can be had for $85 on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B005CT56R6/ and $90 at NCIX: http://us.ncix.com/products/?sku=63468You can't really drop the price further without dropping down to a core i3 or wait on a sale for a Radeon HD6770.
THANK YOU SO MUCH skyR! I don't know how to thank you!
EDIT: How's this RAM?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145278
Sorry I'm not that good with deciding this stuff :3
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On November 23 2011 08:58 MicroMarine wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 08:28 skyR wrote:The Patroit memory is $38 ($28 after mail in rebate). Not a sale, it's absolute shit actually since it's 1333MHz at 1.65v. Mushkin 1333MHz 1.5v were available for $30 ($25 after mail in rebate) a few days ago. Just get 4GB of memory for $20 or wait for a $30 sale on a 8gb kit. The 6770 will allow you to play the games on medium-high at 1080p. Bad idea to purchase a HDD from Newegg right now. A Seagate Barracuda 500GB can be had for $85 on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B005CT56R6/ and $90 at NCIX: http://us.ncix.com/products/?sku=63468You can't really drop the price further without dropping down to a core i3 or wait on a sale for a Radeon HD6770. THANK YOU SO MUCH skyR! I don't know how to thank you! EDIT: How's this RAM? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145278Sorry I'm not that good with deciding this stuff :3
depends. Do you think 4gb is all you will use? then get that. Do you think you might want to upgrade to 8gb later on? Then get the 18$ 4gb stick.
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Budget: 600-700
Resolution not sure if this is important because i need a new monitor
Uses: gaming for the most part also school work.
Upgrade cycle: 2-3 years
When plan on building it: as soon as possible
Overclocking?:no
Need an OS:no
SLI or crossfire:no
where are you buying from: microcenter and newegg
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On November 23 2011 09:07 Shikyo wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 08:58 MicroMarine wrote:On November 23 2011 08:28 skyR wrote:The Patroit memory is $38 ($28 after mail in rebate). Not a sale, it's absolute shit actually since it's 1333MHz at 1.65v. Mushkin 1333MHz 1.5v were available for $30 ($25 after mail in rebate) a few days ago. Just get 4GB of memory for $20 or wait for a $30 sale on a 8gb kit. The 6770 will allow you to play the games on medium-high at 1080p. Bad idea to purchase a HDD from Newegg right now. A Seagate Barracuda 500GB can be had for $85 on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B005CT56R6/ and $90 at NCIX: http://us.ncix.com/products/?sku=63468You can't really drop the price further without dropping down to a core i3 or wait on a sale for a Radeon HD6770. THANK YOU SO MUCH skyR! I don't know how to thank you! EDIT: How's this RAM? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145278Sorry I'm not that good with deciding this stuff :3 depends. Do you think 4gb is all you will use? then get that. Do you think you might want to upgrade to 8gb later on? Then get the 18$ 4gb stick.
Well I've been hearing that 8gb of RAM is unnecessary. I will be streaming too, however. Should I save up for 8gb?
Otherwise then I'll go with 4 gb
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Eh you can just buy a 4gb 18$ stick now, another 4gb stick later..
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On November 23 2011 08:54 Isaac wrote:+ Show Spoiler +On November 23 2011 08:18 skyR wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 07:53 Isaac wrote:+ Show Spoiler +Budget: 600-650$ Resolution: 1600 x 900 Usage: Gaming Upgrade Cycle: 2+ years Overclocking: I want to do it. So, I would like more information if i can make this available, and how to do it. OS: I do not need an OS Crossfire: nope Parts: I live in the united states, so I think I am buying from amazon, newegg, and other retailers. I have outlined my build here and the price came out to be $548CPU: AMD Phenom II x4 955 Black Edition - Many good reviews for this one. It seems to be the current go-to for the budget gamer. Motherboard: ASUS M5A97 ATX AM3+ - I think this has everything I need. I don't know what Mobo to buy. It is compatible with my CPU. I think its OCfriendly, but am not sure. HSF: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus - Will this Fan support OCing, and will it be the way inside the case? Since I am OCing, it was recommended I got a fan. PSU: CORSAIR CX600 V2 600W - 80+ certified, which isnt bad I don't think. I think its good enough for my PC. Newegg says its good enough for a high end GPU and a multi-core CPU. Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB 240pin DDR3 1600: Is getting 1600 over 1333 worth it for a few bucks? G.SKILL sponsors GSL, so I am buying from them. GPU: I don't have a clear definition for this one. I am thinking of a 6850, 6950, or a 7000 series that is supposed to be coming out soon. I can wait a few months to get a good GPU. I do not want to Crossfire, but I would like a powerful gaming card for games like skyrim, sc2, and swtor. I want to spend like 200-240 $. ATI/AMD I think aswell.. Case: Gigabyte GZ-KF03B Black ATX Mid Tower - The description says it best: ideal for computer builders who'd rather spend their money on the contents, than on the case! HDD: not sure on this one either. I think I have 2 HDDs(290 GB each) in my current PC. Does this mean I can get another OS legally? OK so that is it. I know the price is less then the budget because I want to maybe buy a game or two if possible with my money. if one of my parts is lacking for the quality I am looking for let me know!! I went with an AMD build, because in my next build in like 5 years I think I want to try Intel. I think Intel/Nvidia outright beats AMD in the top of the line stuff, but I think for the middle-high stuff, AMD Is the best to go. Nope, you're wrong. Intel outright beats AMD even in the middle-high end stuff. Phenom II X4 was a good option last year for budget configurations but now that Sandybridge occupies every price point, there is no reason to purchase an Phenom II X4 for gaming when a Pentium G860 or core i3 2100 offer better performance and are both available at similar price point to that of a Phenom II X4 955. Nope. It's not worth it to purchase 1600MHz over 1333MHz with your budget. Just use a cardboard box if you want a shit case. No sense in wasting $20 for a shit case. I'm pretty sure such a shit case will not be capable of fitting a Hyper 212+ or 10.5" long cards such as the Radeon HD6950. CX600V2 is a poor choice when there are better options available at the same price point such as the Seasonic S12II 520, XFX Core Edition 550, Earthwatts 650, Antec Neo Eco 520C, Antec High Current Gamer 520, etcetc. All of which are of higher quality and provide equal or more power than the CX600V2. You can re-use your existing operating system if you don't want to purchase a new one. I'm not sure what you mean by getting another operating system legally because you own some harddriives..? I was told that the AMD Phenom x4 II Black Edition overclocked outperforms the i3 2100. and about the case; I am not sure if that is sarcasm. I don't understand why I would want to waste money on a case. You are right about the PSU. I think I will switch over to the Antec EarthWatts. and the 1600 MHz, if the different is like 3 dollars - what is the point of making 2 different kinds of memory. edit; the corsair is -17$ if you buy a bundle with the memory on newegg - do you think that is worth it or not?
An overclocked Phenom II X4 configuration is going to end up being more expensive than a core i3 2100 configuration and will not outperform it, it'll be on par at best.
If you don't want to waste money on a case than why are you wasting money on a shit case? Just leave it on the table or use a cardboard box like I suggested earlier. I don't understand the reasoning behind wasting money on a shit case that won't accommodate bigger heatsinks or the longer flagship cards you plan on getting.
It's called running a business. If the product can be binned at 1600MHz, why would you sell it for 1333MHz? That would just be stupid unless you are short on supply.
Please link to said bundle because Newegg isn't loading for me.
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Depending on you needs, an overclocked 4100 configuration can be a nicer choice than i3 2100 if, say, your electricity is included in your rent. =)
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On November 23 2011 09:33 skyR wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 08:54 Isaac wrote:+ Show Spoiler +On November 23 2011 08:18 skyR wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 07:53 Isaac wrote:+ Show Spoiler +Budget: 600-650$ Resolution: 1600 x 900 Usage: Gaming Upgrade Cycle: 2+ years Overclocking: I want to do it. So, I would like more information if i can make this available, and how to do it. OS: I do not need an OS Crossfire: nope Parts: I live in the united states, so I think I am buying from amazon, newegg, and other retailers. I have outlined my build here and the price came out to be $548CPU: AMD Phenom II x4 955 Black Edition - Many good reviews for this one. It seems to be the current go-to for the budget gamer. Motherboard: ASUS M5A97 ATX AM3+ - I think this has everything I need. I don't know what Mobo to buy. It is compatible with my CPU. I think its OCfriendly, but am not sure. HSF: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus - Will this Fan support OCing, and will it be the way inside the case? Since I am OCing, it was recommended I got a fan. PSU: CORSAIR CX600 V2 600W - 80+ certified, which isnt bad I don't think. I think its good enough for my PC. Newegg says its good enough for a high end GPU and a multi-core CPU. Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 4GB 240pin DDR3 1600: Is getting 1600 over 1333 worth it for a few bucks? G.SKILL sponsors GSL, so I am buying from them. GPU: I don't have a clear definition for this one. I am thinking of a 6850, 6950, or a 7000 series that is supposed to be coming out soon. I can wait a few months to get a good GPU. I do not want to Crossfire, but I would like a powerful gaming card for games like skyrim, sc2, and swtor. I want to spend like 200-240 $. ATI/AMD I think aswell.. Case: Gigabyte GZ-KF03B Black ATX Mid Tower - The description says it best: ideal for computer builders who'd rather spend their money on the contents, than on the case! HDD: not sure on this one either. I think I have 2 HDDs(290 GB each) in my current PC. Does this mean I can get another OS legally? OK so that is it. I know the price is less then the budget because I want to maybe buy a game or two if possible with my money. if one of my parts is lacking for the quality I am looking for let me know!! I went with an AMD build, because in my next build in like 5 years I think I want to try Intel. I think Intel/Nvidia outright beats AMD in the top of the line stuff, but I think for the middle-high stuff, AMD Is the best to go. Nope, you're wrong. Intel outright beats AMD even in the middle-high end stuff. Phenom II X4 was a good option last year for budget configurations but now that Sandybridge occupies every price point, there is no reason to purchase an Phenom II X4 for gaming when a Pentium G860 or core i3 2100 offer better performance and are both available at similar price point to that of a Phenom II X4 955. Nope. It's not worth it to purchase 1600MHz over 1333MHz with your budget. Just use a cardboard box if you want a shit case. No sense in wasting $20 for a shit case. I'm pretty sure such a shit case will not be capable of fitting a Hyper 212+ or 10.5" long cards such as the Radeon HD6950. CX600V2 is a poor choice when there are better options available at the same price point such as the Seasonic S12II 520, XFX Core Edition 550, Earthwatts 650, Antec Neo Eco 520C, Antec High Current Gamer 520, etcetc. All of which are of higher quality and provide equal or more power than the CX600V2. You can re-use your existing operating system if you don't want to purchase a new one. I'm not sure what you mean by getting another operating system legally because you own some harddriives..? I was told that the AMD Phenom x4 II Black Edition overclocked outperforms the i3 2100. and about the case; I am not sure if that is sarcasm. I don't understand why I would want to waste money on a case. You are right about the PSU. I think I will switch over to the Antec EarthWatts. and the 1600 MHz, if the different is like 3 dollars - what is the point of making 2 different kinds of memory. edit; the corsair is -17$ if you buy a bundle with the memory on newegg - do you think that is worth it or not? An overclocked Phenom II X4 configuration is going to end up being more expensive than a core i3 2100 configuration and will not outperform it, it'll be on par at best. If you don't want to waste money on a case than why are you wasting money on a shit case? Just leave it on the table or use a cardboard box like I suggested earlier. I don't understand the reasoning behind wasting money on a shit case that won't accommodate bigger heatsinks or the longer flagship cards you plan on getting. It's called running a business. If the product can be binned at 1600MHz, why would you sell it for 1333MHz? That would just be stupid unless you are short on supply. Please link to said bundle because Newegg isn't loading for me.
apologies, the corsair psu is bundled with the cpu here
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.760567
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+ Show Spoiler +On November 23 2011 05:54 skyR wrote:Show nested quote +On November 23 2011 05:27 Avarice wrote:+ Show Spoiler +This is a great thread. I've tried to glean as much as I can from the OP and since page 740, though I just feel like I need to ask the questions for myself so here goes.
Current setup:
cpu: Intel® Core™2 Duo CPU E6750 @ 2.66GHz
ram: 2g of whatever(I don't know/can't find the specifics)
mainboard: Gigabyte P35-DS3L
gpu: GeForce 8800 GTS 640mb
hd: Barracuda 7200.10 SATA 3.0Gb/s 500-GB
monitor:DELL E228WFP, 22.0"
case: Antec 300
I've had this rig since middlish 2007, and I've been very happy with it. It even runs Skyrim on lowish settings quite well. Nothing about this pc has ever bothered me too much, but it's just getting too dated. A lot of new games have my specs as their minimum, lol.
What is your budget?
~$1000
If there's any place I'd splurge a little, it'd be cpu. Video cards are very modular, and upgrading the cpu seems to always necessitate a new mainboard, which drives me to want a new case, which- Hell I'm already replacing most of my stuff now.
What is your resolution?
1680 x 1050 is what I use now, though I really don't know what the standard is these days with 1080p monitors and all that.
What are you using it for?
Pretty much exclusively gaming. I want my pc to run games well for as long as possible. This prioritizes stability, temperature, and uniformity as far as performance limits. (though as I mentioned before if the cpu is a little bit above the rest that's fine)
What is your upgrade cycle?
Lonnng. Over 4 years for this last one, and only upgrading now because I'll be under minimum specs for new games. Obviously there are no crystal balls to consult regarding future game reqs, but if there's some reason that I should be waiting for a new tier of cpu or something that's coming in the next year, let me know.
When do you plan on building it?
I plan to take advantage of the coming weekend's deals, assuming it is an otherwise opportune time to overhaul my system. This rig does run current games (witcher 2, skyrim, deus ex) without a ton of difficulty on low settings, so I can -probably- wait a few more months if something big is around the bend. If not, now is probably the best time.
Do you plan on overclocking?
Probably not. My hardware knowhow is very low, (in absolute terms) and I don't like the idea of compromising long-run stability unless I am very aware of the benefits.
Do you need an Operating System?
No.
Do you plan to add a second GPU for SLI or Crossfire?
No. I have a shitty little laptop for 'other monitor' purposes so I only need one card.
Where are you buying your parts from?
I need at least one part from Newegg but otherwise any online reputable source is fine. I'm in the U.S.
Other notes:
*My case and my monitor are both damaged, and will need to be replaced. I have moved several times in the last 4 years, including 1500 mile car trips, which took their toll. The same case or an iterative step-up from it would probably be fine, but I really don't know much of what's happened in that area since 2007.
*I don't need any other peripherals, though my speakers (Logitech X-230) are probably pretty 'old' at this point so maybe they could use an upgrade.
*I don't think I will need a SSD. Non-performance-related loading times are not really a giant concern for me, and their downsides of long term instability and cost seem too high atm. I'm open to arguments against that position.
Thanks for your time. Ivybridge (Intel's 3rd Generation Core processors) are scheduled for March / April of next year. AMD's Radeon HD7000 series and Nvidia's GTX 600 series will also be coming in the first half of next year as well and the expectations for these are very high since we're going from 40nm to 28nm. It's up to you whether you want to wait or not. If you're looking to purchase now, you're looking at something along these lines - core i5 2500 or 2400 or any other non-K suffix core i5 - some h61 or h67 motherboard - GTX 560 Ti or Radeon HD6950 1GB or maybe even a Radeon HD6970 or GTX 570 if you have plans to upgrade monitor - 2x4gb 1333MHz cas9 DDR3 This would be very similar in terms of pricing to what you picked up four years ago. And before you ask. No, an i7 is not worth it for gaming since hardly any games even make use of four threads, yet alone eight and this is unlikely to change anytime soon. So don't even think about splurging for it. You probably remember a similar situation four years ago when you decided on your E6750 instead of a Q6600. Regardless of when you are purchasing your new configuration, you should be on the look out for a good case and maybe a new monitor during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. CrossfireX and SLI isn't there for more monitor support, it's there to improve performance by up to 100%. This is sort of necessary if you are interested in playing every game on max settings or doing Eyefinity / Surround (gaming across multiple monitors).
I'll look into the Ivybridge and GTX600 a bit more on my own time, thanks for mentioning them.
I might need some more specific info on certain mainboards when the black friday deals start actually showing up. Discussion on them is always so vague, then I make a nominal choice and everyone suddenly has a reason why it is inferior to another. I am very bad at mainboards =[
To ask a follow up if it's easy to answer, what should I be looking for in a monitor nowadays? Will the monitor choice have a tangible effect on performance of the other hardware? That is to say, would a 1080p monitor slow down my framerate? What brands are still dependable?
re: SLI- My implication there was that I don't intend to do any multi-monitor gaming. The advice that I got about SLI during my previous upgrade cycle basically amounted to "outside of multi-monitor stuff, SLI cost/benefit is quite low unless you value the difference between 56 and 58 fps." Admittedly that might no longer be true of today's games.
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how much is a decent monitor and what should i look for?
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100-150$ and 1080p with LED backlight and 5ms or less delay
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