I posted this topic yesterday and was given two build options. (Thanks Why_Me) and I just wanted to get a second opinion if possible. I've posted the build options below. Particularly when focusing on the graphics card, which of the two builds would you recommend and what changes if any would you make? (I can go up to $800) Thanks.
ESTIMATED PURCHASE DATE: 1-2 Weeks
SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: Gaming, Watching Videos, General Use
PARTS NOT REQUIRED: Keyboard, Mouse, OS.
PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: newegg although not required
PARTS PREFERENCES: None
OVERCLOCKING: Preferably Not
BUDGET: $800
First thanks in advance for any advice given. Basically I am looking to build a gaming rig that can run most games coming out this year at full specs without too much trouble Games I'm looking at are Borderlands, CODMW2, and Dragonage, and L4D2. I'm not really concerned about hitting max specs for crysis though. I will unfortunately need to purchase a monitor along with the parts so I am including that in my $800 budget (I might be able to to be a bit flexible though.)
Like I mentioned before, this is my first time building a PC so I really don't know where to start. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I should also mention that I can pick up a copy of 64-bit Windows XP for cheap from my school. Would this be recommended?
Build 1
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Comb [...] mbo.245596 Combo Discount: -$20.00 Combo Price: $124.90 Free Shipping*
Antec Three Hundred Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - Retail
Antec TruePower New TP-550 550W Continuous Power ATX12V V2.3 / EPS12V V2.91 SLI Certified CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS BRONZE - Retail
Your links are broken since you copied them from another post.
Using 64-bit Windows XP is a gamble. The software and driver support for it is pretty poor. I would highly suggest getting 64-bit Vista with a free upgrade to Windows 7 if at all possible. You can get the OS in a combo with your HD.