Gaming PC 1st ever build, rate and suggest please.

[wruneblade]

Hi guys! 1st post, here it goes!

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APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: As soon as I get a good build together.

BUDGET RANGE: ~1500-2000

SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: Gaming (WoW, SCII, Diablo III, FPS), internet, movies.

PARTS NOT REQUIRED: Going from a laptop to desktop, so I need everything.

PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: Newegg/Tigerdirect, willing to go other if the price is right.

PARTS PREFERENCES: I prefer a Samsung monitor, open to suggestions on all parts.

OVERCLOCKING: Most likely not, I don't know how.

SLI OR CROSSFIRE: Maybe in the future if needed.

MONITOR RESOLUTION: 1920x1080 or 1920x1200 prefered

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: 1st time building a computer, any and all advice is appreciated.

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CPU: AMD Phenom II X4 955 Black Edition Deneb 3.2GHz 4 x 512KB L2 Cache 6MB L3 Cache Socket AM3 125W Quad-Core Processor $159.99

CPU cooler: Do I really need one? COOLER MASTER Intel Core i7 compatible V8 RR-UV8-XBU1-GP 120mm Rifle CPU Cooler $69.99

GPU: XFX HD-585X-ZAFC Radeon HD 5850 1GB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.1 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFireX Support Video Card w/ Eyefinity $309.99

MOBO: This has onboard graphics, can I crossfire that with the stand alone card or is this wasted? GIGABYTE GA-890GPA-UD3H AM3 AMD 890GX HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX AMD Motherboard $139.99

PSU: Modular so I don't have to worry about cable management as much. Probably more than I need but gives me options if I want to crossfire or upgrade things later. CORSAIR HX Series CMPSU-750HX 750W ATX12V 2.3 / EPS12V 2.91 SLI Ready CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS SILVER Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply $159.99

RAM: G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10600) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-10600CL8D-4GBHK $109.99

HDD: SAMSUNG Spinpoint F3 HD103SJ 1TB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive $74.99

SSD: This is probably excessive, but I like the idea of using this as a boot drive and putting most of my games on here so they load faster. Intel X25-M Mainstream SSDSA2MH080G2R5 2.5" 80GB SATA II MLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD) $224.99

Optical: SAMSUNG Black 22X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 16X DVD+R DL 22X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 12X DVD-RAM 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 32X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM 2MB Cache SATA DVD Burner LightScribe Support - OEM $25.99

Case: Not sure about the feet on this one, but I like the looks of everything else. COOLER MASTER Storm Sniper SGC-6000-KXN1-GP Black Steel, ABS Plastic, Mesh bezel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $149.99

Monitor: SAMSUNG P2570HD Black 24.6" 4ms HDMI Widescreen LCD Monitor 300 cd/m2 DC 50000:1(1000:1) Built-in Speakers $299.99

Keyboard: RAZER Lycosa Black 104 Normal Keys USB Wired Standard Gaming Keyboard $74.99

Mouse: Logitech G500 10 Buttons Dual-mode Scroll Wheel USB Wired Laser 5700 dpi Gaming Mouse $56.99

Headset: I think I might get the USB ones instead, I have the 720's for my 360/PS3 and they work well, so I figured this was a good choice. TRITTON AX51 Pro 5.1 True Surround Sound Headset WITH 8 PRECISION SPEAKERS, DESIGNED for PC – 3.5mm Analog Input $99.99

OS: I plan on putting this on my laptop and possibly my GF's laptop as well. Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Full $179.99

Grand Total: $2137.85 Kind of over budget, I can live with this price if I need to, since I have to buy all the parts and don't have anything to recycle from an old build. The SSD is probably the first thing I would cut to save money on this build. Any suggestions, thoughts, comments are appreciated. I will probably be back on the forums after I get all the parts to figure out how to put it together. Thanks in advance! These forums are great.

wruneblade

 

[gkay09]

^ Good components...
If you are over-budget, then my suggestion to you would be to first cut short on the peripherals first rather than cutting down on the main parts...

But without having to cut down on the peripherals, you can save some cash...here are few suggestions...

1. PSU - Corsair 750HX is a solid PSU no doubt...but you do have other cheaper alternatives, that are as good
SILVERSTONE DA700 700W - Even a 700W can easily handle 2x HD 5850s
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817256035

2. RAM -
Cheaper and as good or even better
Corsair
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145198

4. OS - I dont think you can install the OS on both the PC and laptop with a single license pack...rather get the OEM...
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116754
So if you want, buy another for your girlfriend's laptop too...

5. DVD - Cheaper and as good
Sony Optiarc
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827118030

6. Mobo + Graphics card -
Gigabyte 890GX + Gigabyte HD 5850 - This is also of very good quality and the cooler on this card is better than the XFX...
And the 890GX mobo is also good enough if you want to do crossfire...
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.388647

7. CPU cooler + CPU -
With this combo, you get this at a good price and IMO its performance is as good or slightly better than the 1 that you had selected...
Though it is not required to get an after-market CPU cooler if you wont overclock, but by default, it will keep the CPU cooler and produce less noise compared to the stock cooler even at stock speeds...
Xig Dark Knight + X4 955
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.383231

Rest of the components and peripherals are same...
Total - ~$1917 not including any rebates or shipping or tax if any...

 

[Somebody_007]

don't get that mous IMO its darn ugly and why not get a mouse that lights op in the same color as your case and keyboard? For me aesthetics is rerally importat when it comes to peripherals and that mouse just ruins everything . Maybe this one? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16826153055&cm_re=razer_deathadder-_-26-153-055-_-Product

For the headset I'd also look for a blue one but the razers aren't so good so maybe you should look around or stick with the triton. IMO you should definetly drop that ssd. It provides a minimal performance boost and you should definetly invest in more power than an ssd. And I agree with all the suggestions of the other gkay. If you drop the SSD you con go for an i7 930 or a better gpu.

 

[Wired2k]

The CPU cooler is unnecessary as the 955 comes with a heatsink and fan which will be fine since you don't plan on overclocking. I have a 955 and find the stock fan to be quiet. If you did decide to in the future you can buy one then, although the stock fan works to about 3.7ghz from what I've heard. So you'll Save $69.99 from your grand total.


The SSD is definitely unnecessary for now. Yes, it will allow you to boot up quickly, although that system will start quite fast as it is. If you really want to stick to your budget I would get rid of that for now. Save $224.99

Personally I find the Razer mice and keyboards to be a bit of a rip off. Nothing wrong with buying just a standard microsoft or logitech keyboard like:
Microsoft JUB-00001 Black - $29.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823109018
OR
Logitech 920-000021 Black - $24.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823126028

Save $45

That's $340 saved, and if you wanted to save more you could get a smaller monitor, unless the built in speakers are a must have.

SAMSUNG P2370 High glossy black 23" 2ms(GTG) Widescreen LCD Monitor - $229.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824001330

You'll have to buy another copy of Windows 7 if you want to install it on another laptop. IMO Stick with your G-Skill ram as it is essentially the same as the Corsair that gkay listed but has better timings. Using your base components, dropping the ones I suggested and swapping them, and using the Motherboard/GPU bundle the new total comes out to $1707.87, not including shipping or taxes. Just suggestions though as you're buying it and you know what you like!

Edit: An i7 build with all the peripherals would probably put him over budget. A better GPU wouldn't be a bad idea, but the 5850 can handle the games you play just fine and he'll have the ability to crossfire them later down the road should he want to.

 

[Somebody_007]

An i7 would almost perfectly equalize an ssd though and I would'nt even think about which one I'd choose its a no-brainer really.

here's the equation
225 for ssd = 60more for i7 on microcenter + 70more for ud3r + 60-70more for ram(which is much faster)

And I wouldn't go with a cheaper keyboard I really like the feel of a quality gaming keyboard. Maybe the razer isn't fantastic but the reviews say it is.

 

[143miah]

Looks very similar to the build that I'll be getting as soon as I get to my duty station. Around the same budget, too. XD

Here's a build -

CPU + Cooler: AMD Phenom II X4 955 + CM Hyper 212+
Mobo: Gigabyte 790XTA-UD4
RAM: G. Skill 2x2GB Ripjaws CL7
GPU: XFX 5850
PSU: Corsair 750HX
HDD: Samsung Spinpoint F3 1TB
SSD: Intel X-25M 80GB
ODD: Sony CD/DVD Writer
Case: HAF 922
Monitor: ASUS 24" 1080p
Mouse: Logitech G500
Keyboard: Razer Lycosa
Headset: Triton AX51
OS: Windows 7 OEM

Total w/ shipping - 1,922.09. After MIR - 1,887.09.

If you're willing to go about 20 dollars over budget you can get a 5870.

So first off, threw in a CPU cooler just in case you decided to OC. Cheap and reliable.

PSU, stuck with the 750HX. I just like Corsair.

Changed the mobo to a 790XTA-UD4. Has Sata 6gbps and USB 3.0 for later. Also has the ability to crossfire.

Changed your RAM to these Ripjaws. They have a higher clock and lower timings.

Changed the case to a HAF 922. Good size, good airflow, lower price.

Changed your monitor to an ASUS 24". It's 70 dollars cheaper, but if you prefer Samsung then you can change it back and still stay within budget.

 

[wruneblade]

Thanks for all the replies. This is the first time I have been able to check this.

I found this combo deal on the CPU & Mobo and it saves me ~$15. This mobo says it has Sata 6gbs and USB 3.0 in the specs. The onboard graphics are kind of wasted, but I guess it gives me a back up in case my GPU goes down somehow.

I decided the SSD is overkill for what I am trying to do right now. I can always add it later. So that saves me $224.99.

I am also just going to go with the stock cooler like Wired2k said, as I am not going to OC right now and I can get it later if I need it. Another $69.99 saved.

I should have read up better on the Win 7. I will get the OEM since you cant install on more than one machine. Thanks for setting me straight here. ~$80 saved.

I'm going to drop the headset also, as there is an adapter for the headset I do have that will allow me to use in with the computer, and I will have onboard speakers. $99.99 saved.

143miah, I like the RAM you selected so I am going to throw that in there G. Skill 2x2GB Ripjaws CL7 +$10.

I am also going to add ASUS USB-N13 IEEE 802.11b/g/n USB 2.0 Wireless Adapter because of how my home network is set up. +$19.99 I think you posted this item in a different thread, so thanks.

The mouse and keyboard don't match I know. I like the laptop style keys on the keyboard because I am coming from a laptop. And the mouse, well I had a G9 until my puppy chewed the USB cord up, and I liked the feel of it and the scroll wheel. This one is similar but cheaper.

I think I will stick with my other choices for now unless I get some more feedback that changes my mind before Sunday when I order.

Total with the changes: $1677.87 before shipping.

Thanks for the help, I'll be back looking for help putting it together I am sure. Can anyone link me a good video walk through of assembly and 1st boot procedures?

wruneblade

 

[143miah]

Here's what looks to be a helpful guide by tecmo.

 

[wruneblade]

Thanks, I have that one bookmarked from before. It is good, nice pictures, and the program list is very helpful.. I jumped on youtube and searched "build a computer," and got a bajillion videos so I am set for a video I think.

 

[143miah]

Thanks, I have that one bookmarked from before. It is good, nice pictures, and the program list is very helpful.. I jumped on youtube and searched "build a computer," and got a bajillion videos so I am set for a video I think.

Good luck on your build.

 

[Luci3nd4r]

I highly not suggest the Samsung P2570HD. I read an review on MaximumPC that Samsung P2770HD it is strong on features, weak on performance problems at the high end of the grayscale, where very light shades of gray blew out to white. I would suggest getting other Samsung or Asus.

The Tritton AX51 is worst headphones. If you wanna play headphones on XBOX 360 get Turtle Beach Ear Force X41 worth the money. My friend has it.
http://www.turtlebeach.com/products/efx4/home.aspx

PC Headphones on sale for $120.12
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-PC-350-Gaming-Headset/dp/B0012XFDWO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1273286803&sr=8-1

I highly recommend the Razer Deathadder 3500dpi. I have Logitech G500 the mouse scroll is very sensitive playing games like FPS.
http://www.amazon.com/Razer-Deathadder-Precision-Infrared-Gaming/dp/B002Q4U5DK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1273286069&sr=8-1

Buy yourself HDMI Cable for $5.45.
100% Guarantee Good Quality!!!
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10240&cs_id=1024008&p_id=3959&seq=1&format=2

 

[Somebody_007]

I also would take the deathadder above the g500 because it is darn ugly and doesn't fit with the lycosa.

 

[wruneblade]

Just placed my order on Newegg and a separate one on Amazon for the keyboard + mouse. Grand total with shipping and some tools $1761.97! somebody_007 you will be happy to know I decided to get the deathadder to match the keyboard and case. I went to Best Buy to try it out today, and I liked it. So thanks for the recommendation, all my peripherals will glow cool blue. Thanks to everyone for the input. I'll be back Tuesday/Wednesdayish looking for help and maybe posting a pic or two of the whole setup.

 

[Somebody_007]

Hope you enjoy!!!

 

[wruneblade]

So just to update this in case anyone was wondering. Processing from Newegg didn't complete until Tuesday after I ordered. I received all of my items on Friday, some parts came before but most of them showed up Friday.

My CM Storm Sniper case was damaged, and it is also gigantic! I completed and RMA with Newegg for a refund. I ordered a HAF 922 from Amazon because it was out of stock at Newegg. It has red led fans, and its not painted black on the inside unfortunately. But it should fit in the space that I have for it better, and I can always put in blue fans or turn them off if it really bothers me. So Amazon should get me the case by Tuesday. Hopefully I will finally get a chance to play with everything then.

I have the monitor set up on my desk, it looks sweet. I have been using the new keyboard and mouse hooked into my laptop, they are sweet as well. The rest of the parts I have spread out in their boxes for me to salivate over until I can put them together in the case on Tuesday. The wait is killing me.

wruneblade