Basic computer build list (sub-400 dollar) Linux pc

AMDRazer

Honorable
Feb 28, 2015
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Hello all,

I am looking to build a computer which will cost about 400 dollars.
I will use this computer for mostly ham radio functions
Will also be doing basic web surfing/YouTube. Upgrading capability is not a must, but is preferred.
Not sure to go AMD or Intel. Dual monitor capability is a MUST. The more USB ports, the better.
Planning to run Debian
if needed, can increase budget to allow for future-proofing.
Will be purchasing components at Micro Center, but could buy elsewhere if prices are cheaper somewhere else(Amazon, newegg)
Thank you,
AMDRazer
 
Solution
I do not yet see them listed at microcenter, but Intel G4560 should sell for $65.
You can buy any lga1151 motherboard, the integrated graphics will support at least two monitors. Expect $50-$80.
A lga1151 motherboard can be upgraded to i3/i5/i7.
M-ATX will usually be cheaper.
A 2 x 4gb kit of ddr4 ram will be about $35, and speed is ok.
Buy a good quality psu. Anything from Seasonic or antec will be ok. All you need is 300w, more is ok. Probably $50-$100 from microcenter.
Here is a Seasonic 350w unit for $40
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817151143

Newegg is likely to be better.


I will never again build without a ssd for the "C" drive. It makes everything you do much quicker.
120gb is minimum, it will...
I do not yet see them listed at microcenter, but Intel G4560 should sell for $65.
You can buy any lga1151 motherboard, the integrated graphics will support at least two monitors. Expect $50-$80.
A lga1151 motherboard can be upgraded to i3/i5/i7.
M-ATX will usually be cheaper.
A 2 x 4gb kit of ddr4 ram will be about $35, and speed is ok.
Buy a good quality psu. Anything from Seasonic or antec will be ok. All you need is 300w, more is ok. Probably $50-$100 from microcenter.
Here is a Seasonic 350w unit for $40
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817151143

Newegg is likely to be better.


I will never again build without a ssd for the "C" drive. It makes everything you do much quicker.
120gb is minimum, it will hold the os and a handful of games.
But, many things default to the "C" drive.
When a SSD nears full, it will lose performance and endurance.
240gb is the recommended minimum.

If you can go 240gb, or 500gb you may never need a hard drive.

You can defer on the hard drive unless you need to store large files such as video's.
It is easy to add a hard drive later.

Samsung EVO is a good choice for performance and reliability.
 
Solution