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Build Questions and Comparison

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  • Components
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October 1, 2014 9:48:40 PM

Hey guys,
First time building a machine (and posting on a forum for that matter), and I'm a tech dummy. This build is what I've come up with alone. Huge thanks in advance for input:

http://pcpartpicker.com/p/jH6TFT

-Case is for aesthetic, but open to a different one.
-Was thinking on splurging on the CPU, as other systems can be updated more easily later. Bad/cost ineffective move?
-No overclocking planned, but could change once I figure out how to do it.
-Is the compatibility issue with GPU blocking some drive bays going to be a fatal flaw if I only intend to have one CD drive installed?
Last, I'm curious if this rig would be similar to a pre-built one I've found at Alienware, link is here:

http://www.dell.com/us/eep/p/alienware-x51-r2/pd?cs=223...;1014~NOAVR

Thanks again for the help!

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October 1, 2014 9:56:09 PM

I'd drop back a bit on the CPU and see if you could go up one on the graphics card. eg

CPU: Intel Core i5-4690K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor ($225.98 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($28.49 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: ASRock Z97 EXTREME4 ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($143.79 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Sniper Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1866 Memory ($81.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Hybrid Internal Hard Drive ($114.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: MSI GeForce GTX 970 4GB Video Card ($339.98 @ NCIX US)
Case: Corsair Graphite Series 230T Black ATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Power Supply: SeaSonic 520W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply ($71.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Optical Drive: LG GH24NS95 DVD/CD Writer ($19.98 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($88.98 @ OutletPC)
Total: $1155.15
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October 1, 2014 10:04:37 PM

Thanks so much for your input! I was fairly sure those who've done this a time or two would tell me to cut back on CPU power. Just out of curiosity, does the machine you listed outperform the pre-built system I linked? I've never put a PC together, and don't know if I'm really saving money by building vs. buying. Thanks again so much for your help!
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October 2, 2014 12:25:14 AM

If you were into video editing, I'd recommend staying with an i7. But for gaming, the i5 4690k is perfect.

And the gtx 970 will destroy a R9 280X - http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/nvidia-geforce-gtx-... - with less power! And only for an extra $40.

I've also gone for a Hybdrid/SSHD drive - nearly as fast as a SSD but way cheaper.

Edit - it makes no difference if you use the NZXT case and the EVGA PSU.

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October 2, 2014 11:48:23 AM

Thanks a ton for all your help, I really appreciate it!
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