Gaming rig for the long run. i7+770 or i5+780?

hyxal

Reputable
Jun 19, 2014
3
0
4,520
I've compiled two setups for my next gaming rig in which I consider the aesthetics as well and which I also intend to dual-boot to Mac OS X (I'm aware that the MoBo I chose is not optimal, but it should do the job after a few months). My biggest problem is the GPU in which I'm bouncing between the 770 4096MB and the 780 mostly because I feel like the 800-series is behind just behind a corner since 700-series is over a year old now.

Here's my build #1:


  • Asus MAXIMUS VII Ranger Z97
    Intel i7-4790k
    Thermalright True Spirit 120 M
    MSI GTX 770 Twin Frozr 4096
    16GB Kingston HyperX Fury 1866MHz
    Corsair 750W RM (80+ Gold)
    NZXT H440
    Corsair SP120 x2
    Corsair AF140
This would cost me around 1220€ ($1655).

With slight changes (MoBo, CPU, GPU and RAM), I'd get a better performing rig for gaming for the moment, but it might not be as good for the long run when maybe after a year or two I get a chance for the 800-series.

Build #2


  • Asus MAXIMUS VII Hero Z97
    Intel i5-4670k
    Thermalright True Spirit 120 M
    MSI GTX 780 Twin Frozr 3072
    8GB Kingston HyperX Fury 1866MHz
    Corsair 750W RM (80+ Gold)
    NZXT H440
    Corsair SP120 x2
    Corsair AF140
This would cost me around 1200€ ($1630).

I intend to use the computer for several years, rarely do I get a chance to update my rig this much as a student. I also think ahead considering the resell value. The PSU is an overkill, I'm very aware, but I'd rather spend some 20€ more for overkill than having to replace that as well in case of a possible SLI 770 or 800-series GPU.

The rig will be mostly for 1080p gaming (most likely 1440p some time along the line) but in the hackintosh side also some web design, video editing and other work related stuff.

Any suggestions, ideas or opinions are welcome!
 
Solution
The first build would last longer, as you wouldn't have to replace the CPU for a long time. The GPU is also very capable. Unless you're working with videos or photos, or you multitask with sooo many tabs or programs open at once then 8GB will be fine for now.

Icaraeus

Honorable
The first build would last longer, as you wouldn't have to replace the CPU for a long time. The GPU is also very capable. Unless you're working with videos or photos, or you multitask with sooo many tabs or programs open at once then 8GB will be fine for now.
 
Solution

Mr_Cactus

Honorable
Jun 27, 2013
64
0
10,640
Definitely the i5 and 780. The graphics card is more important here, and an i5 is all you need for gaming. The gtx 780 is a great option, and when the gtx 800 series comes out, you can buy another one for SLI since their value will drop quite a bit.