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Can I build a gaming computer with $500

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I want to build a computer for gaming as well as personal use, such as Word, Powerpoint,and Internet browsing.

I have never attempted to build a computer and have not conducted much research either.

I want to know if it is possible to build a gaming computer that can handle games like Global Agenda, WoW, Starcraft, or Diablo.

I don't expect to use the highest settings to play these games, and would be looking to play these games at around 40-50 FPS or more if possible.

I also intend on upgrading this computer and want to know if a portable case would be possible as well.

I don't know if I'm breaking etiquette on this forum by asking like this but would love any feedback you guys can provide.

Thanks!

Oh I live in California if that means anything for parts of the computer I can access.

More about : build gaming computer 500

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You can absolutely build a low/mid range gamer for 500 bucks, the trick is to not let your expectations get super high. With 500 your going to get Decent performance in a lot of games, Poor performance on high details in demanding games, so you're going to have to be ok with turning down some eye candy. Here's an example build I've been suggesting that comes in right around 500 bucks (after you pick out a case):

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD Phenom II X4 965 Black 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($84.99 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: ASRock 770iCafe ATX AM3 Motherboard ($62.55 @ Newegg)
Memory: Corsair 8GB (1 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($34.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 500GB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($54.99 @ Microcenter)
Video Card: Galaxy GeForce GTX 650 Ti 1GB Video Card ($129.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: Corsair Builder 430W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V Power Supply ($24.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Lite-On iHAS124-04 DVD/CD Writer ($15.98 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $408.48
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-01-24 05:53 EST-0500)


Notice I haven't included a case, that's because it's mostly an aesthetic choice and you should be the one choosing the kind of case you like.
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Thanks!
Since I'm new to this my questions may seem unintelligent but I will also need to buy an operating system on top of a case correct?
When it comes to operating systems is there a preference among gamers, and do I need to worry about how big my case should be?

Cali4nian said:
Thanks!
Since I'm new to this my questions may seem unintelligent but I will also need to buy an operating system on top of a case correct?
When it comes to operating systems is there a preference among gamers, and do I need to worry about how big my case should be?


Yes you will need to purchase an operating system to be used on the pc once you build it. For the motherboard already picked out you will need a form factor ATX case. An ATX Mid tower case type is going to be what you should be looking for.

I would suggest this instead and better use 2 dimms of memory to take advantage of dual channel.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Pentium G860 3.0GHz Dual-Core Processor ($68.76 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: MSI B75MA-E33 Micro ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: G.Skill Sniper 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($43.98 @ Outlet PC)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 500GB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($57.98 @ Outlet PC)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon HD 7850 1GB Video Card ($164.99 @ Newegg)
Case: NZXT Gamma Classic (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($31.99 @ Amazon)
Power Supply: Corsair Builder 430W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V Power Supply ($34.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224BB/RSBS DVD/CD Writer ($17.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $480.67
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-01-30 22:13 EST-0500)
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