Cheap HTPC uneder $500

[amoghthegamer]

I want to build a HTPC under $500. I will be using 42" 1080p LG TV. Here are my reqs:


APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: by the end of February of 2010

BUDGET RANGE: $500 After Rebates

SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: Surfing the Web, watching videos, play games

PARTS NOT REQUIRED: OS, Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, Speakers, Heaphones,

PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: newegg.com, tigerdirect.com, bestbuy, and other reliable sources

PARTS PREFERENCES: by brand or type: Would prefer a Nvidia graphics that is LOW! Iam talking under 8800.

OVERCLOCKING: Maybe down the line

SLI OR CROSSFIRE: No

MONITOR RESOLUTION: HDMI resolution

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: Would prefer a quiet PC. Also like mentioned earlier, would like a Graphics card that is somewhat cheap. Would like a wifi card too.

 

[Dougie Fresh]

You list playing games 3rd, but how important is it really and what games? It makes a big difference.

 

[amoghthegamer]

You list playing games 3rd, but how important is it really and what games? It makes a big difference.

Games like flash games and low games like pocket tanks and/or Wheelman. Iam looking at a graphics card that is lower than a 8800 to save money because the 8800 is too much power for what this PC is meant to do. This PC is for my dad and he doesn't even play games that much. it so that I can play games when I go to his house. It is not important at all because I always take my 360 there anways.

 

[taso11]

There are a lot of validated configurations listed here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17984809#post17984809

They cover all Intel, AMD and Nvidia conbinations in many budget brackets. Do you need high definition or standard definition capabilities?