Would this be a good first build for my needs?

NGX159

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Hello let me say I'm glad I found this site and forums, and I'm new here. I looked around at reviews and for a good reasonable budget (less than $1000) I made this configuration here

My only needs for a gaming PC are open world games like the upcoming Grand Theft Auto V, indie games, and train simulators.

I'm kinda of skeptical if the power supply really needs 400w if the estimated wattage is 257.

I'm better off with a PC than the two upcoming gaming consoles as PCs have better value, not to mention steam. Feedback and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
 
Solution

kirilmatthew

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Jul 24, 2013
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I think this build would probably suit you better: http://pcpartpicker.com/user/kirilmatt/saved/2bXa
The GPU is way better, its a high end GPU vs a low end GPU. At 1080p this build will play games probably at ultra settings. It uses high quality components and should be perfect for your needs! You just need to include you keyboard/mouse! As for the PSU, you need a lot more then what is stated usually. Hope this helps!
 

NGX159

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What a nice build, I haven't really messed with AMD much in turns of CPU or GPU but with a much better value with more high end components, I can't go wrong. Thanks for the help. Time to show these PS4/Xbox One guys who's boss. All I need is a mouse and keyboard. One question, in the previous config I had a Cooler Master Storm Enforcer Mid ATX Tower, would it still be okay to switch out the Apevia for the CM?
 

kirilmatthew

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Glad I could help :) Yes, you could change the case if you want, I'm sure your case would do at least as good of a job! Btw remember to pick best solution whenever you're ready :)
 

NGX159

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One more question, could I get away with a card that's 2GB rather than 3? Since I'm on a budget I figure I could go with a 2 GB graphics card for now, then upgrade a year or 2 later. What card would you suggest if 2GB is okay?
 

kirilmatthew

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If you want to spend less then the 7970 you can. There are no 2Gb 7970s. Memory is not at all the most important thing. If you want to spend less I would recommend a weaker CPU(FX 6300) over a GPU downgrade. How much money are you looking to save though? I could give you a recommendation for sure!
 

NGX159

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As long as it's a $1000 or less including the OS (Windows 7 64-bit Home)
 

kirilmatthew

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I don't know why I didn't have windows in the first build, sorry! I would replace the 7970 with this 7950: http://pcpartpicker.com/part/powercolor-video-card-ax79503gbd52dhv4
It will still game on high to max settings but will cost $150 less. This build would therefore end up over $50 under budget :) in the future you could add another 7950 for crossfire if you ever wanted more performance. Hope this helps.
 
Solution
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8320 3.5GHz 8-Core Processor ($144.99 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler: Xigmatek LOKI SD963 52.0 CFM CPU Cooler ($22.98 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-970A-D3P ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($77.99 @ NCIX US)
Memory: Patriot Signature 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($52.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.98 @ Outlet PC)
Video Card: Gigabyte Radeon HD 7970 3GB Video Card ($333.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Zalman Z12 Plus ATX Mid Tower Case ($38.99 @ Microcenter)
Power Supply: XFX 750W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($89.98 @ Outlet PC)
Monitor: Asus VS239H-P 23.0" Monitor ($144.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $1036.85
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-08-17 16:33 EDT-0400)




get this built with a bette ips monitor/o.c.able windfrce 7970/a good z12 plus case/
 

kirilmatthew

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Looks good to go from me! You shouldn't need any of that stuff, you should be fine. Hope it all works out and happy building :)