PC Build: Can this run Skyrim on Ultra or Very High with lots of mods

Hannah786

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Jun 17, 2015
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This is my first time building a PC and I would like to be able to run Skyrim on Ultra or the next highest while using a lot of mods (re-meshes, re-textures, overhauls, quests, objects, etc. not really sure on specific mods yet).
This is my build so far: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/Hkv2Mp
I already have a DVD/CD writer so I didn't add it to my list. Will it be able to run Skyrim as I've said? Are there any modifications you would make to improve gameplay that wouldn't affect overall cost too much (my budget is around $1000)? Thanks so much!
 
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You don't need more than 8GB RAM for gaming at the moment. I would change the SSD to a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB. I highly recommend you change the power supply as the Corsair CX series isn't very good. Antec, XFX, Seasonic, Superflower, EVGA or Corsair HX/AX/TX are much better PSUs.

Rooks_

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Jun 3, 2015
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You could opt for the intel i5 4690K and get a GeForce GTX 970. From what I researched, there is little difference in gaming experience when it comes to the 2 CPUs (i5 and i7).

If I were you, I would get a better video card.

cheers!
 
I agree with Rooks.

But what ever you do go with an Intel processor as the I5 and I7 greatly outperform AMD CPUs in Skyrim. It is a rather CPU intensive game.

Also the game better suits nvidia cards as they offer an option for ambient occlusion where as AMD does not. Not a huge deal but it is an extra option.

Keep an eye out for the new AMD R9 300 cards which should be hitting etailers tomorrow. Their pricing should be aggressive.
 

Hannah786

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Jun 17, 2015
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Thanks for the response! I really want to stick with an i7 processor because, with how fast technology is growing, I think an i7 will withstand changes in the gaming world longer than an i5 will. I also read (on this same website) that Skyrim is a lot (?) more CPU intensive than GPU intensive, so as long as your video card is good, Skyrim will look good (and I think the one I chose is good?). I can't really justify to myself spending $200 over budget if my graphics will look good either way, although please correct me if I'm terribly mistaken (though I do understand they would look better with the 970). And I think GeForce video cards are NVIDIA? Ultimately, with my current setup, do you think I will be able to run Skyrim as I specified in the main question?
 
My suggestions:

1.) Go from 16GB to 8GB of Ram. You don't need 16GB for gaming at all.
2.) upgrade the GTX 750TI to a GTX 960. I think you will be disappointed at the 750TI
3.) Go with a better SSD manufacturer such as Crucial.
4.) You might be able to save some $$ going with 128GB on the SSD
5.) I would go with Windows 8.1 without question. Windows 10 is coming out this summer and you will find your self with a new pc that has an OS that is 2 generations behind.
6.) Go with an I5 processor if your main usage is going to be gaming.
 

Hannah786

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Jun 17, 2015
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I created a new parts list by editing the older one with the replacements I see fit. You can find it here: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/qB8y23
I took your advice on the RAM, figuring that I could always add more later if I see fit but could save some money now by downsizing. I also took everyone's advice on the video card and upgraded to a GTX 970. I didn't see the need to downsize the SSD because, if I went with Crucial, it wasn't that much cheaper to downsize and only $10 more for about 16 GB more in a more reputable brand (from 240 to 256 I believe). As for the operating system, I definitely want to stick with windows 7. I am entering college this year and will be using this computer for school and other stuff, as well as gaming. The extra money to advance my video card actually came about from me discovering I received more financial aid than I expected (yay!). I, personally, like the way windows 7 operates and, currently using a computer with windows 8, would definitely like to go back to windows 7.
Above all, thanks for the response! I really took your advice (along with the other responses) into consideration when altering my plans.
 

Icaraeus

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You don't need more than 8GB RAM for gaming at the moment. I would change the SSD to a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB. I highly recommend you change the power supply as the Corsair CX series isn't very good. Antec, XFX, Seasonic, Superflower, EVGA or Corsair HX/AX/TX are much better PSUs.
 
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