First DIY PC budget build ~ $350

dskadberg

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Dec 26, 2014
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Howdy!

Looking to build my first desktop PC. I've done a little bit of research, but I'm still somewhat stumped on what would be best for me. I understand the components and what each one does, like I said though, not sure which parts I need to focus on for my needs. I'm hoping to get a good "starter" computer and upgrade the parts slowly piece by piece. The main thing I'm concerned about right now is, I wan't to be able to run programs like Autodesk's AutoCAD, and ESRI's ArcGIS, and Android Studio, very smoothly. I will be doing some video creating/editing as well. I will probably eventually set it up to a projector to watch movies, but it won't have to be 4K quality. I would like to be able to run 2 monitors together, (3 would be nice, but not a necessity). Budget is $350, Max is $400. I eventually plan on doing some gaming on PC, but that won't be until later.

My main questions are, what type of Case should I get to reduce the chances of needing to buy a new one? I would like to get a good, (hopefully cheap) case that can be used for several years, it doesn't have to be pretty. How concerned should I be about ventilation? I KNOW it's important, but how many fans are really necessary? Here are 2 supercombos I found on Newegg that seem like they might be alright.

Cheaper one:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboBundleDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.1416411

Intel one:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboBundleDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.1622702

I do plan on doing a solid and almost complete upgrade in the next year, I just need a faster machine now as I only have a Sony Vaio Laptop dual-core 2.4 ghz, 4gb Ram.

Do those look like good starting places? Open to and appreciative of any feedback. Thanks!
 
Solution
The Intel one will be MUCH better, although you'll want to replace its PSU.
To turn it into a competent gamer, you'll just need to add a video card, as your budget permits.
Note that it uses a 1x8GB RAM kit, rather than the faster 2x4GB kit.
Neither includes the operating system, so you'll need to add that. Overall, you can select your own parts and match these prices, since you'll buy once and not replace anything.
The Intel one will be MUCH better, although you'll want to replace its PSU.
To turn it into a competent gamer, you'll just need to add a video card, as your budget permits.
Note that it uses a 1x8GB RAM kit, rather than the faster 2x4GB kit.
Neither includes the operating system, so you'll need to add that. Overall, you can select your own parts and match these prices, since you'll buy once and not replace anything.
 
Solution

dskadberg

Reputable
Dec 26, 2014
2
0
4,510


Thanks, that helps. I had a feeling the Intel one would be better.