Trying for a $650 budget build. Need some help finishing the parts list.

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rushrage

rushrage

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Hey guys! I'm trying to finish this build list for a $650 budget computer (used for browsing and light gaming). So far I've gotten this: http://pcpartpicker.com/user/rushrage/saved/yt3BD3

As for merchants I'd love to stick to NewEgg and Amazon (and for timeline asap). I do need an OS (but no monitor). There is no current plan for OC. And it would be running at 720p.

I don't have my heart set on any parts really. It would be great if the GPU was Shadowplay or GVR ()supported though (probably looking at AMD because of the price though. GVR's requirements are here:

If you’ve got an AMD card that supports VCE 1.0 or 2.0 (basically Radeon HD77XX series and up) or an nVidia GeForce 600/700 GPU, you should be all set to use GVR.
Click to expand...


So any suggestions on a GPU and Motherboard? Thanks for you help!
 
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Epsilon_0EVP
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Swordkd

Swordkd

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Ok, can make a build that falls well below the 650 dollar mark.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: AMD FX-6300 3.5GHz 6-Core Processor ($94.89 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: ASRock 970 Pro3 R2.0 ATX AM3+ Motherboard ($56.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: Team Xtreem Dark Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($47.89 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($104.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Corsair 200R ATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: Corsair CX 500W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply ($51.08 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($87.75 @ OutletPC)
Total: $548.56
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-02 13:25 EST-0500

Stuck with AMD, but could fit an Intel build into the budget if we tried. No cooler, just because I was trying to save money and a cooler isn't absolutely necessary at first(the cpu will come with one that'll do for now). Gaming at 720p isn't too taxing, so the 260x is more than enough for that. You don't need a huge PSU, and the Corsair CX(M) is a great budget option. If you wouldn't mind spending more of the 650 dollar budget though, I'd like to upgrade a couple parts. Psu, case and possibly video card spring to mind. You also didn't say if you need an optical drive.

:edit: Also, your original build didn't stick with just Newegg and Amazon, so I didn't even try.
 
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PizzaTheHutt

PizzaTheHutt

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The AMD build @Swordkd looks good but here's an Intel option with better graphics for you to consider:

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i3-4150 3.5GHz Dual-Core Processor ($104.75 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: Asus H81M-D PLUS Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($44.49 @ Newegg)
Memory: Pareema 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($57.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Crucial M550 128GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($83.89 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: PowerColor Radeon R9 280 3GB TurboDuo Video Card ($182.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($39.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $599.05
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-02 13:30 EST-0500

EDIT: Just saw you needed an OS so here's an amended build:

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: AMD FX-6300 3.5GHz 6-Core Processor ($94.89 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX Micro ATX AM3+ Motherboard ($54.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: Pareema 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($57.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: PowerColor Radeon R9 280 3GB TurboDuo Video Card ($182.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($39.98 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 - 64-bit (OEM) (64-bit) ($89.98 @ OutletPC)
Total: $605.77
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-02 13:35 EST-0500
 
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Raiin

Raiin

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Here is a build, went i3 instead of g3258 for the sole reason that some games dont launch without 4threads like Farcry 4 and Dragon age inquisition, and an i3 acts like a quad core for gaming anyways, its a great dual core that does much better than 6300 at gaming. a r9 280 is more than you need for 720p, but that extra power can be used for Downsampling from 2560x1440 to 720p to make the game looks better and sharper, Use Tools like Gedosato, which works with most Dx9 games, and for dx11 you can use AMD SSAA, you will feel like your playing at native 1080p :).

650$ without rebates or any special promotion.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i3-4150 3.5GHz Dual-Core Processor ($105.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: MSI H81M-E33 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($47.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: Mushkin Stealth 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($60.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon R9 280 3GB Dual-X Video Card ($159.99 @ Newegg)
Case: Corsair 200R ATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Lite-On iHAS124-14 DVD/CD Writer ($14.98 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($87.75 @ OutletPC)
Total: $612.64
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-02 13:32 EST-0500
 
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Archgaull

Archgaull

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For just light gaming, this would work better. An overclock on this can get you running quite nicely.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Pentium G3258 3.2GHz Dual-Core Processor ($64.99 @ NCIX US)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($34.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock Z97 Anniversary ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($92.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($47.99 @ NCIX US)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 750 Ti 2GB Superclocked Video Card ($144.99 @ Micro Center)
Case: NZXT Source 210 Elite (White) ATX Mid Tower Case ($61.98 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($44.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($93.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $656.89
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-02 13:31 EST-0500
 
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Epsilon_0EVP

Epsilon_0EVP

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Motherboard has a lot of options, depending on what specific types of connectors you need. For general use, something like this can work well, specially since you won't be overclocking: http://pcpartpicker.com/part/asus-motherboard-m5a97r20

That leaves about $140 for the graphics card. For that money, you can easily get a GTX 750 Ti or an R9 265, with the 265 being slightly more powerful but the 750 Ti using less power. There might be some better deals out there, but either of these cards are good for 720p already.
 
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Swordkd

Swordkd

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I like the idea of using Intel for this build, if, he's willing to toss in a new Cpu eventually. I think an i3 for now, with the intent to upgrade to an i5 eventually is the best option.

For 720p gaming, he doesn't need a Radeon 280. If getting a 1080p monitor or TV is in the future, then it would be a worthwhile upgrade though.

I like Raiin's build, except I'd change the Psu. Not a fan of budget eVga psu's. Also, he has the budget for something slightly better quality.
 
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rushrage

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Do you think it would be worth it to upgrade though? I'm just a bit concerned because of some of the reviews (talking about DOA, quickly dying, and fan grinding). I was thinking if there was a safer PSU for only $10-15 it might be worth it.
 
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rushrage

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Awesome! That one looks great. Two last questions:

PCPartPicker says "Some Intel H81 chipset motherboards may need a BIOS update prior to using Haswell Refresh CPUs." Is this something I should be concerned about?

And is there anything specifically different to keep in mind to when putting together a AMD build? Done 2 Intel's but never an AMD.


Thank you all soooooo much for your help! You guys are always so patient and helpful. Here's the final list for those who are interested: http://pcpartpicker.com/user/rushrage/saved/#view=43wp99
 
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Raiin

Raiin

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looks great, you can switch out the ram for a mushkim stealth which is 10$ cheaper, and i advise against Getting seagate Drives, they have the highest failure rate, a WD blue drive is only 5$ more, also its best if you either go windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 8.1.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0088PUEPK/?tag=pcpapi-20

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820226398&nm_mc=AFC-C8Junction&cm_mmc=AFC-C8Junction-_-na-_-na-_-na&cm_sp=&AID=10446076&PID=3938566&SID=
 
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rushrage

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Sounds good!

Now PCPartPicker says "Some Intel H81 chipset motherboards may need a BIOS update prior to using Haswell Refresh CPUs." How would I update the BIOS if the CPU doesn't work? Is this going to be an issue?
 
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Epsilon_0EVP

Epsilon_0EVP

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That depends on the motherboard. Traditionally, you need to already have a CPU in the motherboard to do an upgrade of the BIOS. However, there are lots of motherboards nowadays with extra functionality to let you upgrade the BIOS without needing a CPU installed. Furthermore, the Haswell Refresh CPU's have been out for a while now, so it is unlikely you'll get a motherboard without the necessary BIOS. It's still a good idea to see what upgrade options the CPU offers, though.
 
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rushrage

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So I won't run into any issues getting this thing up and running?
 
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mdocod

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Doesn't really make any sense to go through all that trouble to put a premium PSU in a build if the power regulation chosen for the CPU is going to be utter trash.

FYI, voltage regulation doesn't end at the PSU. The most power thirsty devices in the system require very low voltage at very high current (CPU and GPU). The PSU bucks down from 100-250V AC to 3.3V, 5V, 12V, etc, then the 12V rail is bucked down by the motherboard to ~1-2V to power the CPU.

Granted, an i3 isn't asking a lot of that power regulation system, but I would never run an i5 or better on one of these 2-3 phase motherboards. Asking for trouble IMO.

Light gaming at 720P with an R9 280??? You know An R7 250X can play Crycis 3 at 720P 60FPS all day. I don't understand what all the GPU here is for.
 
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Epsilon_0EVP

Epsilon_0EVP

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I would be very surprised if you did. If you feel unsure, though, double-check the return policy of wherever you buy the motherboard from. It's a good idea to know you can return it if it doesn't have the right BIOS. However, as I said, tht is very unlikely because the Haswell refresh has been out for quite a while now.
 
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rushrage

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So is the Motherboard the issue? Or the PSU?
 
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mdocod

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If it wasn't clear, I do not advise using bottom barrel H81 boards. There are only a few H81 boards I would consider any good... I'll include one in a build example here later.
 
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rushrage

rushrage

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So what would you suggest something like the H97? Or is that too over board for this build?
 
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mdocod

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Here's 3 builds, ordered in what I believe to be incrementally better with each revision, though all valid options...

$650 PileDriver build (good):

CPU: AMD FX-8310 3.4GHz 8-Core Processor (~$115+$5S/H @ Tiger)
CPU Cooler: RAIJINTEK AIDOS 48.6 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($23.00 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-78LMT-USB3 Micro ATX AM3+ Motherboard ($60.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: Mushkin Stealth 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($60.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($50.96 @ Directron)
Video Card: MSI GeForce GTX 750 Ti 2GB Video Card ($126.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($44.98 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: Rosewill Capstone 450W 80+ Gold Certified ATX Power Supply ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 - 64-bit (OEM) (64-bit) ($92.00 @ B&H)
Total: ~$640 TO THE DOOR (includes shipping from merchants selected, no MIRs).

----------------

$650 Haswell build (better):

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i5-4440 3.1GHz Quad-Core Processor ($174.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: Biostar Hi-Fi H81S2 ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: Mushkin Stealth 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($60.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($50.96 @ Directron)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($122.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Deepcool TESSERACT WH ATX Mid Tower Case ($37.98 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: Rosewill Capstone 450W 80+ Gold Certified ATX Power Supply ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 - 64-bit (OEM) (64-bit) ($92.00 @ B&H)
Total: $650 TO THE DOOR (includes shipping from merchants selected, no MIRs).

----------


SSD + haswell (best):

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i5-4440 3.1GHz Quad-Core Processor ($174.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: Biostar Hi-Fi H81S2 ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: Mushkin Stealth 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($60.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Crucial MX100 256GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($99.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: PowerColor Radeon R7 250X 1GB Video Card ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Case: Deepcool TESSERACT WH ATX Mid Tower Case ($37.98 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: Rosewill Capstone 450W 80+ Gold Certified ATX Power Supply ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 - 64-bit (OEM) (64-bit) ($92.00 @ B&H)
Total: $656 TO THE DOOR (includes shipping from merchants selected, no MIRs).

------------

There's a lot of misconception about how much GPU is required to play games. In fact, the vast majority of current production GPUs can play any game made without complication, especially at 720P:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/crysis-3-performance-benchmark-gaming,3451-4.html

Notice that at 720P at the low detail preset, the GTX650, HD7750, HD7770 (=R7 250X), and GTX650Ti are all actually bottlenecked by the i7-3960X. The HD7770 is a decent step better than the GTX650, as such, should have no problems with a a slightly higher visual quality setting than was chosen for the test...
Quote "Crysis 3 gives us more eye candy and a similar combat experience as its predecessor. The highest settings are absolutely brutal on high-end hardware. But there's good news: this game's lowest detail setting looks far better than many other games' highest quality levels, and even a sub-$110 Radeon HD 7750 or GeForce GTX 650 is playable at 1920x1080."

As it would turn out, every game made has settings that will run fine on a $100 GPU.

Check this:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/radeon-r7-250x-graphics-card-review,3747-3.html
250X running seriously demanding games at 1080P getting 30-60FPS range with reasonable visual quality settings. Just a reminder, 720P is half as many pixels for the GPU to deal with as 1080P.
 
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Epsilon_0EVP

Epsilon_0EVP

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I definitely disagree with the philosophy of this budgeting. While it is definitely true that the amount of GPU power needed is exaggerated, specially at 720p, the amount of CPU power needed is even more exaggerated. The graphics cards you mention are very obviously bottlenecked by the 3960X because there's basically nothing for them to do at such low settings, not because of a fundamental lack of CPU power. There is no way I could recommend anyone to get a $180 CPU paired with a $80 GPU for a gaming machine.

The first machine is probably the option I'd agree with the most. However, I'd consider the R9 265 instead, as it is a more powerful GPU at a similar price. Also if we're going to spend $60 on the PSU, I would also consider a more reputable PSU, like an XFX 550W that sells for the same price, or going to a cheaper 500W unit like one of the EVGA ones.
 
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rushrage

rushrage

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Now I'm questioning everything I know! Haha. Thanks for the awesome suggestions (and of course your help Epsilon)! Do you think something like this would be a good fit?

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i5-4440 3.1GHz Quad-Core Processor ($189.99 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: Biostar Hi-Fi H81S2 ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: Mushkin Stealth 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($60.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($122.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Deepcool TESSERACT WH ATX Mid Tower Case ($37.98 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX TS 550W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($63.98 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($102.98 @ Newegg)
Total: $678.87
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-02 22:51 EST-0500
Click to expand...

Dropped the SSD in echange for a GPU upgrade. With mail-in rebates: $648.87 (Would the GPU still be bottlenecking?)
 
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