Building First PC, Many Questions

crudo · 16 Mar 2014

First time poster long time lurker. I would like to take the leap to playing modded Skyrim. My background is Apple computers and console systems for games. From what I've read here and other sources it seems building my own pc is the way to go and that leads to the inevitable, "am I picking out the right components?". To give a bit of context I would like the pc that I build to be able to play a fairly heavily modded Skyrim eventually and also be a bit future proof for similar games in the future... Fallout 4 I hope. I'm budgeting $1500 but would like to save some cash if I could. With that in mind this is what I've put together so far.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811352021

Fractal Design Define R4 case. I really like the look of Fractal Design cases and NewEgg has a special offer with this particular model. It also seems to be an easy case to work on with a spacious interior.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116898

Intel Core i5 4670 Haswell 3.4GHz. I've decided on intel, that much I know. What I'm uncertain of is if I should get an i7 or stick with the i5. Since this is my first time with a pc I'm staying away from OC'ing.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131989

Asus Maximus VI Hero ATX motherboard. I'm probably most confused by mobo's more than anything else. I really don't know what I need, I don't even know what questions to ask to determine which is the smartest buy.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127741

MSI Gaming N770 GeForce GTX 770 2GB. This is the component that confuses me the most after the mobo. I'm trying to decide between three of them and not sure if any of them are the way to go. The other two are Gigabyte models, the cheaper way to go is a 760 with 4gb which is about $50 cheaper or the 770 with 4gb which is about $50 more than the linked MSI above. There is also a similar Gigabyte model 770 with 2gb vram which is about the same price as the MSI.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820147248

A Samsung 840 EVO 250gb SSD. This will be the only drive I purchase for the build, maybe add another in the future.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231568

I don't know if there is better or worse RAM to buy but I would like to start the system with 16gb.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817438005

EGVA Super Nova 650 watt PSU. I was looking at buying a modular or partially modular unit.

That's the meat of the system so far. I also plan on buying another fan for the front of the case, an optical drive and then debating between Windows 7 or 8. Also need advice on getting an aftermarket cpu cooler rather than the one that is packed with the cpu. And finally, I need recommendation on a decent keyboard and mouse, nothing high end but a nice solid combination.

That's about it. All advice is appreciated.

tomm434 · 16 Mar 2014

your choice for CPU is good. Ther is no much difference between i5 and i7 in gaming but i7 is waaaay more expensive. Better save money on CPU to buy greated GPU.

tejano2828 · 16 Mar 2014

Antec case 900 Middtower......

Might want to look at this case I own two of them....for first time PC modders its simple yet very effective and reliable...

I recommend an 850 Power Supply just in case you want to add more things and the CPU goes into turbo

mode you might need the extra juice...

Yes motherboards are very confusing especially if its your first time...

might want to head on over to overclocker.net and get some advice on chosing one.....

most of us PC modders prefer a specific brand like me "asus"

Motherboards come in 3 rangers...low end, mid and high end....with the prices being

100-170 starter models

170-250 Enthusiast models....moderate overclocking options

250-400 usually comes with bluetooth, wifi, high ram power output, more oc options like start reset buttons on board

I know im probably giving you higher components but if you wan to do one upgrade on this list you might want to go for the

evga gtx 780 with 3 gb ram you'll thank me later...once you start to get serious and overzealous with texture mods you might

regret going for a 2 gb version.

I woudl go for the 850TX corsair power supply

the SSD is superb I have that one and loading of areas is instant...

GOod luck.....

might want to check out linustech tips on youtube for all these components to

get an idea of what youare buying...

let us know how it goes.....

dbstrinity · 16 Mar 2014

i wish i went this route when i was looking for gaming laptops >_>. next time i shop for a computer im going to do my own this way. already your setup has mine beat 3 times over and costs a thousand less haha. and i run skyrim with 100+ mods. ENB is still a no go though or at least smooth ENB is.

tattooedillusions · 16 Mar 2014

Yeah MB's were a pain in the ass for me also for my current/1st pc build. I went with that exact one (Maximus Hero VI) & I'm very happy with it so far & it's been about 5 months since I got everything up & running. As far as Win 7 or 8 I can't say. Never tried 8 but which ever one you choose you'll need to get the Professional version at least in order to get the full 16MB out of your RAM sticks from what I've read. Personal version or whatever it's called I guess has limitations on that. What kind of cpu cooler are you going to get? If you go with air instead of water cooling just remember to check your dimensions to make sure it's going to fit in your case. Some of the air coolers out there are huge & may not fit depending on your mid tower dimentions unless you put a killer hood scoop on your side panel hahaha. I'm by no means an expert though, in fact like I said this was my first build. It took me quite a while to get all the parts needed so I spent a lot of time researching stuff & trying to decide on what to get. I agree that upgrading that PSU would be a good idea too if it's within your budget just to be safe. Just my 2 cents. Good luck with it man.

Oh also I'm not sure how many games you have but if you have a lot it would probably be a good idea to get an extra hard drive. My SSD is pretty much allocated for the op system, other programs like Photoshop, Blender, etc. and that space goes quickly. If you can squeeze it in your budget of course.

Cheers!

...0... · 16 Mar 2014

For heavy modding go 4GB is must and there are cards both Nvidia and AMD for very nice price with 4gb i should investigate that, if your goal is heavy modding 2gb ain't gonne cut it.

If your on budget i should concider AMD 290 is alot faster card with 4gb vram while 780 slower card with 3gb vram and more expensive so no brainer i say which one to buy.

indaryselarren · 16 Mar 2014

Glad I saw this, I've been in computers for 17 years (Technician, Network Admin, IT Manager) and built a new rig last year and I can say that right now the most important thing you can do is Solid State Hard drives, if you can afford to go that route. It makes EVERYTHING run better it is good even if you can get a big enough SSD to just load windows and game files on and then use either external storage or additional internal HDD's for GB heavy stuff you need to store like docs,music, videos etc. It is amazing how much better SSDs can make your PC run.

Pkatt · 16 Mar 2014

Welcome to building PCs! You will love it, I think there is a great amount of satisfaction when you build your own, plus you know exactly what you have.

Someone else mentioned the Antec 900 case, here is the link-

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129021

I have this case, and I absolutely love it, check it out if you haven't seen it. It is close in looks to that fractal design, for the same price. What I love about it is the way the cooling is set up. Those fans pull air in the front, across everything, and then out the back and top. But something I didn't realize, until I got the case, is that the top fan is so big, so it doesn't have to spin as fast as smaller fans to move the same amount of air, and what that translates to is lower noise! This is the quietest case I've ever owned, while still keeping everything cool. Plus I really like the looks of it, I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

I have the 770 GTX 2Gb SC. I did a good bit of research on it and from everything I read, a 2Gb 770 is better than a 4Gb 760. Here is one thing I found out also, you might take into consideration. Some of them are SC, Superclocked. Basically, that means they are overclocked from the factory. I read that those are actually the ones you want to get. Because when they do they tests at the factory, they only pick the ones that test out the best to overclock them, because they don't want cards coming back to them with warranty issues. So by buying the Superclocked versions, you are both getting a card that is a bit faster, AND getting a card that tested in the top percent.

I would definitely consider going more than 650 on your power supply. That card needs a minimum power supply of 600W, and you always want to go more than minimum when you get your power supply. Your power supply is one of the most important pieces you will get for your PC. It runs everything, and if you skimp, or get a low quality one, it has the potential to take out or mess up everything else in your PC. I am running this 760W Seasonic on mine.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817151120

I like Seasonic because they are a quality brand. I just happened to catch this one on a day when it was a 24 hour sale, and got it half price!

With coolers, definitely get something after market, the more cool everything is, the better. Here is the one I use.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835118046

Just check the ratings on them. I got mine because it was rated good, and I like the looks of it with my case, and it is quiet. I don't like a loud pc. LOL

And if you aren't aware of it, go to http://www.tomshardware.com/ I can't stress enough how great a resource this website is, for building your own pc.

Oh, and for keyboard and mouse, I prefer Logitech myself. I have had a Logitech G15 gaming keyboard, and a G5 mouse for years. They are still going strong. And since I play in the dark I love having a lighted keyboard.

crudo · 16 Mar 2014

Seems to be a consensus on getting a more powerful PSU. I'll look into the suggested options, thanks.

tatooedillusions, seems like we chose the same MB. From what I've read it seems to be quite good but like I said I still don't know. I wouldn't mind spending less on this component, especially if it will allow me to purchase a better GPU.

Speaking of GPU's, EvasiaDutch, I don't really know much about the AMD cards and how they rank compared to the Nvidia, the 290 you recommend is substantially more expensive than the Nvidias that I'm looking into. Having said that, I've read mixed messages about vram on the cards. Some of what I've read state that 4gb is overkill and is really only needed in multiple monitor configurations. I had considered a 760/4gb card but I had read, as Pkatt wrote, that the 770/2gb card outperforms it. Having said all that there is a 770/4gb card that is about $50 more. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125462 I could swing that if I can save some dosh in other components if jumping up to 4gb makes a difference.

Had no idea that the home version of Windows limited you to 8gb. Working with Mac OS all these years that has never been a hindrance so live and learn. If that's true I will either shell out more for the pro version of the software of if 8gb ram is enough I can save some cash and apply it to the GPU.

The Antec is a nice case but I really like the minimalist look of the Fractal Design, it's more my kind of style.

So the questions are the amount of vram for the GPU and system ram for the rig. Still got to figure out the MB, I've been reading but it's hard to say what is important to me until I start using the system.

One last item that was mentioned, I don't plan on using this system for anything other than gaming. I use my Mac for all my work so this new computer will be soley for gaming.

...0... · 16 Mar 2014

Seems to be a consensus on getting a more powerful PSU. I'll look into the suggested options, thanks.

tatooedillusions, seems like we chose the same MB. From what I've read it seems to be quite good but like I said I still don't know. I wouldn't mind spending less on this component, especially if it will allow me to purchase a better GPU.

Speaking of GPU's, EvasiaDutch, I don't really know much about the AMD cards and how they rank compared to the Nvidia, the 290 you recommend is substantially more expensive than the Nvidias that I'm looking into. Having said that, I've read mixed messages about vram on the cards. Some of what I've read state that 4gb is overkill and is really only needed in multiple monitor configurations. I had considered a 760/4gb card but I had read, as Pkatt wrote, that the 770/2gb card outperforms it. Having said all that there is a 770/4gb card that is about $50 more. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125462 I could swing that if I can save some dosh in other components if jumping up to 4gb makes a difference.

Had no idea that the home version of Windows limited you to 8gb. Working with Mac OS all these years that has never been a hindrance so live and learn. If that's true I will either shell out more for the pro version of the software of if 8gb ram is enough I can save some cash and apply it to the GPU.

The Antec is a nice case but I really like the minimalist look of the Fractal Design, it's more my kind of style.

So the questions are the amount of vram for the GPU and system ram for the rig. Still got to figure out the MB, I've been reading but it's hard to say what is important to me until I start using the system.

One last item that was mentioned, I don't plan on using this system for anything other than gaming. I use my Mac for all my work so this new computer will be soley for gaming.

Yeh strangely prices in US are alot more different then here in europe AMD is alot cheaper here then Nvidia.

On Vram part its just advice or suggestion buy what you think feels good.

But overkill about 4gb Vram is bullcrap in near future you will see im right and for heavy modding specically if you wanne go ulra textures you need enough vram.

For full HD 2gb for now is enough but if you wanne go 2560 or even higher 4gb is must in heavy modding Vram is more importend then ram 8gb is for now enough i rather go if PC is soley for gaming for more Vram.

Get a case with goood flow for cooling its importend also PSU is more importend then many realise dont get some cheap crap you regret it later.

Well good luck it was on advcie i build PC sinds 90s.

Hitom · 16 Mar 2014

Only wanted to say, very! good choice in Tower. Bought a fractal when I built a comp for my gf, now I envy her greatly, lmao.

tejano2828 · 17 Mar 2014

something I forgot to mention this is how I look at building a PC....just like to start

CPU because certain CPUs only go with certain Mobos because of the form factor...

I couldnt find a linustech tips video on that hero board but on overclocker.net they have

a thread for that here: http://www.overclock.net/t/1413905/official-asus-maximus-vi-hero-owners-and-overclocking-club

if your really set on that mobo then I would spend some time reading through that...basically its the pros and cons

of owning that mobo....and again on the video card nothing lower than 3gb youll regret it....again....

I am running skyrim on ULTRA everything on a 55 " led...at 1080 with projectENB at max settings and I get

constant 60 fps probably get more but im limiting it...because of flickering.....

I couldnt tell you anything about AMD or ATI .......but you do know that AMD or ATI same company right?

anyways back to my game good luck

Spartan 363 · 17 Mar 2014

How about buying this case? I have it and it's a full size tower that has plenty of space for even massive cards like the GTX Titan. It's actually a well made case and it does not feel and look cheap and even has fitting and such if you wish to go with a watercooling setup in the future. It's larger than the case you posted and cheaper and allows for more fans and such to be installed. It has Fan controllers too for any fans to put in and comes with a top load SATA HDD slot to connect a HDD to transfer stuff and such on the fly without having to open your case. This case has great airflow and will keep your components cool. It's pretty much tool less except for the screws that hold the expansion cards (graphics, sound and such).

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811553002

Here is a picture of the inside of this case, as you can see, very large cards such as a GTX 680 fit inside and has plenty of space for even multiple cards and large CPU heatsinks like the Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO.

Do go with the 4GB GPU too, heavily modded Skyrim already uses nearly 3 on my GTX 770 4GB.

Advint · 17 Mar 2014

So I kind of perused all the things people said and the stuff you had listed and here is what I have to say about all of that. First, you definitely want to get another hard drive along with the SSD because even though it has that 250gb thats not nearly enough for all the things your going to want to do with your computer over the course of using it. SSD are once again as someone else said, great for the operating system and primary programs, along with a few key games. Other than that you will want to load everything else on another hard drive; I remember reading at one point that SSD only had like 10,000 writes (I'm sure someone will attest or denounce this statement). As far as your motherboard and stuff all looks good. The case is something I would look more into as your computer ages you will start to look in to overclocking to keep your computer up to snuff for the new games that are coming out. The case that was suggested offers a larger fan, which correlates to better air flow (in most cases). And with the G skill ram you picked out, I don't know if its all that necessary as with 16 gb of ram I doubt you will overclock it for some time, which is what that series is built to do; so you could pick out cheaper ones and save some money. I'm assuming you have your monitor and other accessories budgeted in (free or otherwise). With the power supply, definitely upgrade to the one suggested earlier as that provides you more options and a better efficiency. And for sure go with the after market heatsink.

The full tower mentioned above would best suite a corresponding motherboard btw, and is preferable to many for their space allowing working room.

Just make sure when you build it, to keep one hand on the case at all times until you have it grounded, otherwise you will have a very expensive mistake on your hands. And buy a floppy drive because you always need one.

sora3 · 17 Mar 2014

Alright, there are a few things I'd probably point out though.

1) The motherboard can be downgraded slightly to either the ones below:

Asrock Z87-Extreme 6: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157371

Gigabyte Z87X-UD4H: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128617

The reason I suggest this is that the Maximus potential isn't what you need. You're not overclocking nor are you pushing for the max. The above would suit you better than the Maximus.

2) The GTX 770 is probably where I'd put my money down. Partly because the alternative (the AMD Radeon R9 280X) is just the previous Radeon HD 7970 Boost. But definitely not MSI so I'd probably find one of the nVidia partners like EVGA or Gainward.

3) You also need another HDD to store your basic stuff like music and the like. A nice hard drive like this one would go a long way: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA2W017R1670

4) Finally, PSU or Power shouldn't be cheap. I'd suggest you probably go with something like this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817151121

Others will be wondering, why so little. Well, the Intel system won't be pulling a crapload of power, maximum 400 watts. The problem however is quality. Most power supplies come from the same company but they vary in terms of components and as well as the electrical. Because of this, the above will serve your needs and is of decent quality since those guys actually build their own PSUs rather than off the shelf buy.

crudo · 17 Mar 2014

Thanks. I'm feeling better about the direction with this shared info. Now, to address a few points.

Motherboard.

Thank you sora3, I've read up a little bit on each of the MB's you suggested and have already switched to the Gigabyte Z87X and saved some cash. This is exactly the kind of information I was looking for.

Case.

I still prefer the Fractal Design case over the Cougar Extreme that you posted, Spartan. Size-wise they are almost identical, with the FD case being a tad wider, an inch shorter and about the same depth. One of the features I like about the fractal design cases is the ability to remove the middle drive cages to make room for longer graphics cards and open up airflow. The Cougar may do that as well but I still prefer the minimalist look of the Fractal Design cases.

However, because of your recommendations I did realize I may be making a mistake with the Define R4 case. The Define series is developed for silent operation, it's lined with foam and the air intakes aren't as robust. The Arc and Core series are better in that regard, each with more included fans and better ventilation. The Arc series is more expensive but a more sophisticated design than the Core series. Plus the Core series is smaller. So... if I want to save money it's the Core series and I'm trying to drive down the price at this point so I am going to consider the Core series for now.

RAM.

So what's the recommendation for the amount of ram to buy, 8 or 16gb. Right now, relative to a modded Skyrim will it make a difference? And does anyone know, do I need the pro version of Windows to operate more than 8gb ram?

GPU.

I haven't changed my GPU selection yet but I plan to. I plan on staying with the 770 series but most likely will choose either of these two Gigabyte cards:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125463 The 2gb version. It's factory OC'd, I guess that is a virtue according to what I've read.

or

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125462 The 4gb version, also factory OC'd.

Both of these cards raise the price from $10 - 50 but I'm willing to make the change if it truly makes a worthwhile difference in performance.

SSD/HHD.

I understand all the suggestions about adding another drive and I may do that down the road but in order to save money and get what I want I'm just going with the SSD for now. As far as other uses for the new PC there will be none, it's just for gaming. All my music, data, photos, projects are on my Mac and that will continue to be my all purpose computer.

PSU.

It seems like this will cost me more than I originally planned. Having said that, sora, what is the difference between the 650 watt psu you recommended and the 650 watt psu I originally picked?

Aftermarket Cooler.

I will add this to the build. I do have a question, if the cpu comes with a cooler and I don't plan on overclocking (which I don't) then is it neccessary to get an aftermarket or just good insurance?

Peripherals.

I do need to purchase a keyboard/mouse and am looking for a modest but decent equipment. I haven't given this much thought yet but I do like the keyboards with key caps that are different colors for the WASD and arrow keys. Don't care if it's backlit, I won't pay more for that feature but if it's included it wouldn't bother me. The monitor, I have an old 720p HD TV I could use but plan on getting a modest monitor but I'm not including that in this budget.

I've also considered getting a new iMac, the specs are pretty decent and inline with what we are considering above. I'd give up the SSD but the rest of the system is fairly stout:

3.4GHz i5

16gb ram

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780M 4GB GDDR5

This would cost $2350, so it's more money but it has virtues over adding a second computer to my desk. For those unfamiliar you can run Windows OS on a Mac. There are some other hidden costs of course, the Windows software and keyboard, mouse. You do get a sweet 27inch monitor with the iMac.

Rayblue · 17 Mar 2014

I've also considered getting a new iMac, the specs are pretty decent and inline with what we are considering above. I'd give up the SSD but the rest of the system is fairly stout:

3.4GHz i5

16gb ram

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780M 4GB GDDR5

This would cost $2350, so it's more money but it has virtues over adding a second computer to my desk. For those unfamiliar you can run Windows OS on a Mac. There are some other hidden costs of course, the Windows software and keyboard, mouse. You do get a sweet 27inch monitor with the iMac.

Unless you're into heavy desktop publishing, video editing, or professional photography, which Macs traditionally predominate, I prefer a scratch-built PC over a Mac (or a prebuilt PC like, uh, Alienware), and one can replace a failed component easily, unlike taking a Mac to an authorized service center and pay a fee for repairs or upgrades.

Advint · 17 Mar 2014

Thanks. I'm feeling better about the direction with this shared info. Now, to address a few points.

RAM.
So what's the recommendation for the amount of ram to buy, 8 or 16gb. Right now, relative to a modded Skyrim will it make a difference? And does anyone know, do I need the pro version of Windows to operate more than 8gb ram?

PSU.
It seems like this will cost me more than I originally planned. Having said that, sora, what is the difference between the 650 watt psu you recommended and the 650 watt psu I originally picked?

Aftermarket Cooler.
I will add this to the build. I do have a question, if the cpu comes with a cooler and I don't plan on overclocking (which I don't) then is it neccessary to get an aftermarket or just good insurance?

1) You can use more than 8gb of ram on regular old windows, I reached 9-10gb of use one day running creation kit and skyrim at the same time along with other things. Hell, I'm using 9gb right now.

2) The PSU suggested is a platinum edition, meaning its more efficient, as in it actually pulls 650 watts out of the wall and not say 700 watts because it is losing some in the process. You can wiki 80 platinum edition and it should come up with info on it.

3) The CPU you selected comes with a heatsink. The only time they don't is if its out of box. But the reason its suggested that you get the aftermarket cooler is because while the one a cpu comes with works, its only so good. Eventually you will want to add an aftermarket cooler, and it may save you time now.

I suggest you try to shop around a bit on some of these things to try to get a deal to save some money, just remember to factor in shipping. And I'm also wondering if you factored in speakers / headset.

Doublezero · 17 Mar 2014

If you're going for a mid tower case I would recommend a Raidmax Aeolus, or Helios. I own a Helios and believe me, you can fit long video cards in that case.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811156254

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811156252

wanako · 17 Mar 2014

Don't even consider that iMac. The big thing that you may not be seeing there is the GTX 780M. That's a mobile GPU and stands absolutely no chance against a 770.

Motherboard: I agree with sora3, you will not need a higher end Mobo if you're not planning to OC. The ASRock and the Gigabyte are good choices, though I'm biased towards ASRock. I've used many of their Mobos since they started 1155 and have had no problems with them.

RAM: I recommend going with 16GB if you can afford it. modded skyrim can take QUITE a bit.

GPU: 770 4GB. I always go with EVGA. You might pay just a bit more but their service is ridiculously good and RMAs have been quick.

PSU: I also agree with Sora3 and would get that Seasonic. NEVER skimp out on a PSU. EVGA is still rather new to the PSU market and has proven somewhat good at the higher watt range because they use good parts, but they tend to be a bit sketchy at mid-level wattage. I can't find any info on what the OEM for the EVGA PSU is so I can't comment on it, but that Seasonic is of incredible quality, ridiculously good voltage stability, and ripple suppression.

Cooler: I would NEVER recommend keeping the stock Intel Cooler on a gaming PC. just chuck that thing out of the window. For a good Air Cooler at a decent price, I go with a Cooler Master Hyper212+/EVO.

CPU: I know you chose to go with the i5, which is an excellent choice of CPU for gaming, but IF you are planning to run programs that require more cores or will benefit from Hyper Threading, but want to keep it around the same price, I'd recommend this little hidden gem: Intel Xeon E3-1225v3 :cool:

I use an 1155 Xeon 1230v2, myself and use it for gaming, F@H, video editing, photo editing, etc. and the damn thing is glorious. It's practically an i7 at i5 price but doesn't come with integrated graphics and 200 MHz less than the i5. Just something to consider depending on your situation and needs..

crudo · 17 Mar 2014

I'll take the iMac out of the equation. Not worried about the reliability, I've had two of them and never had a problem but it wouldn't be a dedicated game machine and that's really what I want.

I will swap out my PSU with the model sora suggested. I will add 16GB of ram. I will also add the cooler and 4gb GPU. Now let's see if I've broken the bank!

crudo · 17 Mar 2014

Okay, I put everything into the NewEgg basket and here it is:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811352031

I'm sticking with Fractal Design but I've changed to the Arc Midi. This case is $10 more than the Define R4 but it has better airflow and an additional fan.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116898

Intel Core i5-4670 Haswell 3.4GHz.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835118046

Zalman 120mm 2 Ball Low-noise LED CPU Cooler.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128617

Gigabyte GA-ZA7X-UD4H LGA 1150 Intel Z87 HDMI 6GB/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125462

Gigabyte GeForce GTX 770 4GB Card.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820147248

Samsung 840 EVO 250GB SSD.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231568

G.Skill Ripjaws X Series 16GB RAM.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817151121

Seasonic ATX 12V/EPS 12V, 660W, 80 Plus Platinum Full Modular PSU.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827135204

Asus 24x DVD Burner.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116986

Windows 7 Home Premium, 64 Bit (Stll considering 8, I have no bias or background with Windows so I will be getting used to a new OS regardless).

Grand Total: $!,499.90

Well, that is right under my $1500 budget that I originally set. While I'm good with that I sure wouldn't mind reducing that a bit. The keyboard and mouse will be at least $100 and then I will have to address the monitor as well at some point. As far as shipping goes, most of this will ship for free according to the NewEgg site, it will just be a slow process, maybe a week. One other plus, at least half the items listed have rebate codes and cards so I may save a bit more.

And a note to advint, I already own a very nice set of Creative Labs speakers. Had not thought about getting a headset, maybe in the future.

Am I missing anything?

Rayblue · 18 Mar 2014

Hmmm... Given that most are now going over to USB storage or portable external drives (I used to have one but I now do most of the fixing through USB thumbdrives installed with utilities), you can opt to buy a DVD writer (more likely external) later on.

crudo · 18 Mar 2014

Thanks for the suggestion Rayblue but won't I need the DVD drive to load Windows?

crudo · 19 Mar 2014

I just wanted to thank everybody for contributing to this thread. I've scoured a few places on the internet looking for advice on computer builds. I appreciate the extra time and valuable input from everyone here you all have been extra helpful. Thanks!

I should be putting in my order later today.

Sign In

Announcements

SITE MOVED - IN READ ONLY MODE 12/08/2015

Archived

Building First PC, Many Questions

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post

Share this post

Link to post