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[sgjackson]

In the last year or so my desktop (i5 2500k, 770) has become a lot more of a dedicated living room gaming PC, and I do most of my general use computing on my laptop. I'm either thinking of just getting a gaming laptop and using it for both purposes (spare me the standard gaming laptop lecture, I've had them before and know the pros and cons), or building a PC more appropriate for living room use.

Most of the time it would live in the living room and be a streaming and gaming box, and occasionally I'd want to move it to a traditional desktop environment. In addition, I bounce back and forth between an apartment and a house a lot, and I'd like it to be easy to transport between the two.

Here's a list of parts that are different than standard recommendations (4690k, 970, 8GB RAM, MX100+1TB WD Blue)
-Corsair 380t - 129.99: The carry handle actually makes sense for me and I'm fond of the ridiculous yellow, but if there's something that's easier to build in, smaller, and cools better for cheaper I'd be inclined to switch to it. It fits graphics cards up to 290mm so a 970 would be fine.
-Coolermaster G550M - 79.96: Power supply length is a concern in Mini-ITX cases, and this looks like a decent value for a 140mm modular power supply that reviewed decently (but not perfectly) on HardwareSecrets. If there's a better small and modular unit in a similar price range I'll switch this out.
-ASRock Z97E-ITX/ac - 116.98: Built in wireless is a requirement, and this board has that for a lower price than similarly featured boards from Gigabyte, ASUS, or MSI. If I'm going to be using a Z97 board, it makes sense to toss in a low-profile heatsink or AIO watercooler to get a mild to moderate OC, but I'm not quite sure which direction I'd go with this yet.
Logitech G602 - 58.99: Trades off worse battery life for a much faster polling rate than other wireless mice, helping mitigate the lag issue most wireless mice have in games. Considering I'm not a hardcore multiplayer FPS or MOBA player, this will work fine.
Logitech K360 - 19.98: I'm least sure of this. I think I'd rather have a numpad than a touchpad and I'd be willing to pay more for a standard keyboard layout. I wish Razer would make the Turret because that would be a no-brainer for my situation.
Logitech F710 - 39.99: I have multiple wired 360 controllers laying around so this isn't a huge issue, but it'd be cool to have a controller that uses another nano receiver so I really don't have to sweat cables.

 

[knitoe]

I am officially in the club.

 

[oxrock]

I'm on the verge of building a new mid range pc and am currently considering gpu's. The two I'm looking at are the R9 280 and the gtx 760 which seem to be really similar in performance. My question is, if they're so similar in performance as the following indicates: bench comparisan, then why the price disparity? I can get an R9 280 for about $190 on amazon but a gtx 760 is looking to cost $340+. Seems a bit wonky so I'm here to ask people who are more informed, am I missing something here?

 

[kharma45]

I'm on the verge of building a new mid range pc and am currently considering gpu's. The two I'm looking at are the R9 280 and the gtx 760 which seem to be really similar in performance. My question is, if they're so similar in performance as the following indicates: bench comparisan, then why the price disparity? I can get an R9 280 for about $190 on amazon but a gtx 760 is looking to cost $340+. Seems a bit wonky so I'm here to ask people who are more informed, am I missing something here?

760 is EOL so isn't being supplied any more, which is the main reason. It has been replaced by the 960. Even without that crazy price inflation Nvidia products typically carry a price premium over AMD ones.

What are you budgeting GPU wise?

 

[oxrock]

760 is EOL so isn't being supplied any more, which is the main reason. It has been replaced by the 960. Even without that crazy price inflation Nvidia products typically carry a price premium over AMD ones.

What are you budgeting GPU wise?

Trying to keep it in the range of $200, going a little over for amazing cost efficiency would be acceptable but hopefully not by an awful lot. I'm not on the market for a titan or anything.

 

[sssstententen]

Hey guys.

Any resources for me to check on desk/office/gaming chairs? I tried out my friends Dxracer this past week and I'm pretty jealous. Any of you guys have recommendations/places I can look up reviews? Or should I just stick to Amazon

 

[kiyomi]

Trying to keep it in the range of $200, going a little over for amazing cost efficiency would be acceptable but hopefully not by an awful lot. I'm not on the market for a titan or anything.

You can get a 280X for $220 after a $20 rebate here. Great card for the money. 280 is a nice card too for what you're paying, I don't think anyone can recommend a 760/960 these days unless you get a super deal or you have a specific edge need.

 

[Smokey]

I am officially in the club.

Forgot you were joining. Congrats, nice upgrade from OG Titan.

These things scream at 4k

 

[Celcius]

Today I had my first experience with a 144 hz monitor - the ROG Swift. It was hooked up to a demo station at my local Frys. The build quality was great and the appearance was also nice. The only game installed was some 3d puzzle game though
It also didn't have an internet connection so I couldn't run the blur busters UFO test. However, I could drag windows and text around on the screen (and play the puzzle game). In the store it didn't seem like a big deal since the text still wasn't 100% blur free, but when I got home to my 60 hz screen then the difference was more apparent. Noticeable but not a huge deal to me (probably unless I tried it side by side with my current 60hz monitor).

 

[oxrock]

You can get a 280X for $220 after a $20 rebate here. Great card for the money. 280 is a nice card too for what you're paying, I don't think anyone can recommend a 760/960 these days unless you get a super deal or you have a specific edge need.

Much appreciated, i'll be looking into it.

 

[neoanarch]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...31&cm_re=gigabyte_thor-_-26-146-031-_-Product

vs

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FAJT6VK/?tag=neogaf0e-20


I can't decide between these.

 

[Smokey]

Today I had my first experience with a 144 hz monitor - the ROG Swift. It was hooked up to a demo station at my local Frys. The build quality was great and the appearance was also nice. The only game installed was some 3d puzzle game though
It also didn't have an internet connection so I couldn't run the blur busters UFO test. However, I could drag windows and text around on the screen (and play the puzzle game). In the store it didn't seem like a big deal since the text still wasn't 100% blur free, but when I got home to my 60 hz screen then the difference was more apparent. Noticeable but not a huge deal to me (probably unless I tried it side by side with my current 60hz monitor).

It's really noticeable when gaming. You can tell the difference during standard desktop use, but it is very apparent when gaming especially with FPS.

 

[zyxwvu4321]

I really, really need to get a ROG Swift.

 

[Smokey]

I really, really need to get a ROG Swift.

At this point there are potentially better GSYNC monitors on the way with IPS panels and other refinements.

 

[Celcius]

It's really noticeable when gaming. You can tell the difference during standard desktop use, but it is very apparent when gaming especially with FPS.

I had a feeling that would be the case. Too bad I can't rent one for a day...

 

[knitoe]

Forgot you were joining. Congrats, nice upgrade from OG Titan.

These things scream at 4k

They do make a big difference at 4K. Finally, I can continue to play DA: Inquisition. My CPU and GPUs are probably set for the next 2 years. I'll probably scratch my upgrade itch with minor stuff.

 

[zyxwvu4321]

At this point there are potentially better GSYNC monitors on the way with IPS panels and other refinements.

True, I do love me some IPS.

OK, yeah. I think I will get an Acer Predator as a gift to myself.

 

[KePoW]

At this point there are potentially better GSYNC monitors on the way with IPS panels and other refinements.

any specific ones to look out for?

 

[xBladeM6x]

Just so I'm sure, I'm using an OEM version of Windows 7. If I get a new CPU / motherboard, do I need to pay for another OEM? I remember reading something about that.

 

[Vulcano's assistant]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...31&cm_re=gigabyte_thor-_-26-146-031-_-Product

vs

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FAJT6VK/?tag=neogaf0e-20


I can't decide between these.

Can't speak for the gigabyte, but the Sensei is known to be great. My current mouse and I love it.

 

[RGM79]

Just so I'm sure, I'm using an OEM version of Windows 7. If I get a new CPU / motherboard, do I need to pay for another OEM? I remember reading something about that.

OEM as in it came with a prebuilt PC? Most likely you'll need a new Windows license, but you can try it first and contact Microsoft to see if they'll help you activate it because it's a parts upgrade and you're not replacing the entire PC.

 

[matt05891]

So I noticed many of you use Intel based processors which I have personally always used as well. However while I am doing my shopping to build a new rig I cam across this AMD processor which looks fantastic.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819113351

Just curious if any of you have input on it. I haven't built a new computer in years and the specs seem fantastic on it.

 

[Vhalyar]

Following up on my HTPC inquiry (thanks for the pointers), I'm looking at the following:

Intel Pentium G3258 1150 3MB Cache 3,2GHz Anniversary Edit. (73e)
MSI H81M-P33 (H81,S1150,mATX,DDR3,Intel,EuP) (49e)
DDR3 4GB PC1333 CL9 G.Skill 4GNS (36)
WD Red WD20EFRX 2TB (104e)
Crucial MX100 128GB (63e)
Corsair 430W CX430 80+ Bronze (44e)
FD NODE 304 White

Any ideas on what to downgrade to cut costs a bit more?
This is intended to run 24/7 in the living room as a storage/streaming box for my projector.

 

[xBladeM6x]

OEM as in it came with a prebuilt PC? Most likely you'll need a new Windows license, but you can try it first and contact Microsoft to see if they'll help you activate it because it's a parts upgrade and you're not replacing the entire PC.

I built the whole PC part by part, including just ordering the OS, so no pre-built here. And that's at least good news. I'm thinking I need to, because my sound card seems to be dying, and it's a shit Z68 ASRock motherboard anyways. I have a 3770k, but I'm debating if I should just upgrade to a Z77, or just go all the way and get an Asus Z97-A LGA, and a 4790k.

 

[The Llama]

So I noticed many of you use Intel based processors which I have personally always used as well. However while I am doing my shopping to build a new rig I cam across this AMD processor which looks fantastic.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819113351

Just curious if any of you have input on it. I haven't built a new computer in years and the specs seem fantastic on it.

It's AMD's highest end CPU... and it's still beat by cheap Intel i3's. See:

Source: http://www.anandtech.com/show/8316/...the-fx9590-and-asrock-990fx-extreme9-review/8

 

[neoanarch]

Can't speak for the gigabyte, but the Sensei is known to be great. My current mouse and I love it.

Thanks. Looks like the price is pretty good too but from a third party seller. I think I'll risk it.

 

[LaffTrack]

This is sort of relavent to my situation so I'm quoting your post. I'm planning on selling my MSI Twin Frozr II 560 Ti 1 GB card soon - probably just gonna give it a listing on GAF to try and get it sold easily. Anyway, I think the best way is to look what sold auctions on eBay for your card have gone for, then knock off at least 10% from the price (probably 10-20%). I think that's the plan I'll use when I try to sell my 560 Ti.

Anyone else have some advice for us?

Well I did the math. I averaged the last ten sold listings in North America for the original Gtx Titan and that came up to $838 CDN. Converting the CDN to USD came up to $667 USD. Knocking off 20% of that price comes up to $533 USD. That price still seems a little steep.

I would rather sell the card to someone of GAF than list it on ebay or locally through Kijiji. I guess I can give it a try here on GAF at that price and see if people get insulted?

 

[matt05891]

It's AMD's highest end CPU... and it's still beat by cheap Intel i3's. See:


Source: http://www.anandtech.com/show/8316/...the-fx9590-and-asrock-990fx-extreme9-review/8

Thank you for that! I felt there was a reason it was never mentioned.

 

[Celcius]

any specific ones to look out for?

The Acer Predator XB270HU: http://www.tftcentral.co.uk/reviews/acer_xb270hu.htm

 

[vocab]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...31&cm_re=gigabyte_thor-_-26-146-031-_-Product

vs

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FAJT6VK/?tag=neogaf0e-20


I can't decide between these.

Avoid the gigabyte.

 

[RGM79]

I built the whole PC part by part, including just ordering the OS, so no pre-built here. And that's at least good news. I'm thinking I need to, because my sound card seems to be dying, and it's a shit Z68 ASRock motherboard anyways. I have a 3770k, but I'm debating if I should just upgrade to a Z77, or just go all the way and get an Asus Z97-A LGA, and a 4790k.

New non-ASRock Z77 motherboards run over $100 which is kind of silly to spend on a motherboard that's already outdated, but you'd have to spend a lot more for a 4790K and Z97 motherboard and that only gives you a marginal CPU performance increase (5~15% improvement at best?). Maybe you can sell you 3770K to help pay for new parts.

Following up on my HTPC inquiry (thanks for the pointers), I'm looking at the following:

Intel Pentium G3258 1150 3MB Cache 3,2GHz Anniversary Edit. (73e)
MSI H81M-P33 (H81,S1150,mATX,DDR3,Intel,EuP) (49e)
DDR3 4GB PC1333 CL9 G.Skill 4GNS (36)
WD Red WD20EFRX 2TB (104e)
Crucial MX100 128GB (63e)
Corsair 430W CX430 80+ Bronze (44e)
FD NODE 304 White

Any ideas on what to downgrade to cut costs a bit more?
This is intended to run 24/7 in the living room as a storage/streaming box for my projector.

Hmm, you didn't mention what country you were in? Where are you buying the parts? Do you have any preferred retailers that you're looking at?

You can probably find a cheaper hard drive than the WD Red. The Node 304 is nice but a bit pricey, there should also be some cheaper cases.

So I noticed many of you use Intel based processors which I have personally always used as well. However while I am doing my shopping to build a new rig I cam across this AMD processor which looks fantastic.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819113351

Just curious if any of you have input on it. I haven't built a new computer in years and the specs seem fantastic on it.

Not worth it at all. It's old, runs hot as hell, needs a higher end 990 chipset (I think) and AM3+ is a dead platform that stopped getting upgrades about 18 months ago. Not to mention that newer and cheaper Intel processors beat it in single core performance. It may be an octo core processor, but it won't beat any Intel processors unless you're only running programs that can take advantage of all 8 threads, even then Intel's a better bet because it won't be as hot.

 

[SRG01]

So... I've finally nailed down my list: http://ca.pcpartpicker.com/p/bPtgHx

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-4790S 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($329.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-B85M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($95.26 @ DirectCanada)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport XT 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($194.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($64.99 @ NCIX)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 960 4GB SuperSC ACX 2.0+ Video Card ($312.49 @ Amazon Canada)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ NCIX)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ NCIX)
Optical Drive: LG UH12NS30 Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer ($49.99 @ Canada Computers)
Wireless Network Adapter: Gigabyte GC-WB867D-I 802.11a/b/g/n/ac PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter ($36.99 @ Newegg Canada)
Total: $1169.68
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-21 17:52 EDT-0400

Rationale for choices:
- i7-4790S was actually relatively cheap, even if it's on special order right now. That, and low heat/power, which I like.
- The RAM price is wrong; I already purchased the 16GB stick on sale for $134 CAD
- Motherboard works with Haswell refresh out of the box, apparently. Are there better options out there? I'd prefer at least two PCI slots (not including the one blocked by the video card) for the WiFi card and a USB Type-C expansion in the future.
- GTX 960 4GB was released! That solves my graphics card 4GB requirement without compromising on performance.
- Do I really need a optical drive? I still have a PS3 for Blu-Rays, but I can't recall the last time I actually watched a Blu-Ray, or installed something through a DVD/CD.

Comment and critique is welcome

 

[oxrock]

Hoping for some feedback on my current build. I'm a gamer/programmer/game dev/3d modeler/whatever, so I do generally go a bit towards the enthusiast side of things.

processor: Intel Core i7-4790K

motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z97X

ram: Kingston HyperX FURY 8GB Kit (2x4GB) 1866MHz DDR3

fan: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO

GPU(already purchased): Sapphire Radeon VAPOR-X R9 280X 3GB

as far as SSD, HDD,case,PSU, I'll simply be reusing my current components.

These are the items I currently have in mind, as I listed, the GPU has been purchased already but the remainder of the items aren't set in stone. Performance is important to me but I'm not willing to go to extreme price ranges, so I was thinking these items were a good compromise. Comments/advice/recommendations are GREATLY appreciated.

 

[xBladeM6x]

New non-ASRock Z77 motherboards run over $100 which is kind of silly to spend on a motherboard that's already outdated, but you'd have to spend a lot more for a 4790K and Z97 motherboard and that only gives you a marginal CPU performance increase (5~15% improvement at best?). Maybe you can sell you 3770K to help pay for new parts.

This is why it's a difficult decision. Lol. Though, I've always wanted a at least decent backup PC, for testing things I'm not okay with doing on my main machine. Lol Definitely not the penny pinching option.

 

[Karspankey]

Just got a GTX 960 today, the ASUS Strix to be exact. It's such a huge upgrade over my last card which was a HD 7750. It's been able to keep 60fps at max settings for everything I've thrown at it barring DayZ. For reference, I have:

AMD FX 6300
ASUS Strix GTX 960
Corsair Vengeance 8gb RAM

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade!

I have a question though! It came with a free copy of Witcher 3 that will be sent in my email. Has anyone ever gotten a free game from a promotion like this? I want to know if it's a type of code I'll be able to sell on here for example.

 

[Smokey]

any specific ones to look out for?

Acer XB270HU seems to be the one to watch for. IPS, GSYNC, 144hz.
ASUS ROG SWIFT PG27AQ. 27'', GSYNC, 4k
ACER XR341CK. 34'', 21:9. 144hz, GSYNC, curved display

There are some 1080p GSYNC options too, but I am not familiar with those.

Just got a GTX 960 today, the ASUS Strix to be exact. It's such a huge upgrade over my last card which was a HD 7750. It's been able to keep 60fps at max settings for everything I've thrown at it barring DayZ. For reference, I have:

AMD FX 6300
ASUS Strix GTX 960
Corsair Vengeance 8gb RAM

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade!

I have a question though! It came with a free copy of Witcher 3 that will be sent in my email. Has anyone ever gotten a free game from a promotion like this? I want to know if it's a type of code I'll be able to sell on here for example.

Yes you can sell it here if you want in the B/S/T thread.

 

[RGM79]

So... I've finally nailed down my list: http://ca.pcpartpicker.com/p/bPtgHx

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-4790S 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($329.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-B85M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($95.26 @ DirectCanada)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport XT 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($194.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($64.99 @ NCIX)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 960 4GB SuperSC ACX 2.0+ Video Card ($312.49 @ Amazon Canada)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ NCIX)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ NCIX)
Optical Drive: LG UH12NS30 Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer ($49.99 @ Canada Computers)
Wireless Network Adapter: Gigabyte GC-WB867D-I 802.11a/b/g/n/ac PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter ($36.99 @ Newegg Canada)
Total: $1169.68
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-21 17:52 EDT-0400

Rationale for choices:
- i7-4790S was actually relatively cheap, even if it's on special order right now. That, and low heat/power, which I like.
- The RAM price is wrong; I already purchased the 16GB stick on sale for $134 CAD
- Motherboard works with Haswell refresh out of the box, apparently. Are there better options out there? I'd prefer at least two PCI slots (not including the one blocked by the video card) for the WiFi card and a USB Type-C expansion in the future.
- GTX 960 4GB was released! That solves my graphics card 4GB requirement without compromising on performance.
- Do I really need a optical drive? I still have a PS3 for Blu-Rays, but I can't recall the last time I actually watched a Blu-Ray, or installed something through a DVD/CD.

Comment and critique is welcome

Well, it's been a while. I have some things to say about the build.

1. Paying $95 for a B85 motherboard is kind of silly. For that much money, you might as well get a newer and better H97 motherboard, no need to worry about whether it'll support the CPU or require a BIOS update, as it is guaranteed to be compatible with the i7 4790S.

For future expansion you want PCI-E slots, not PCI which is outdated and wouldn't be fast enough for wifi or USB 3.1/type C. They don't even make those cards for that type of slot anymore. You'll need room for four PCI-E slots as the GTX 960 will take up two slots and the two wifi and USB expansion cards will need a slot each for themselves. Alternatively, you could use a USB wifi adaptor instead of the PCI-E wifi card, but it wouldn't be as good.

There's this somewhat more expensive MSI H97-G43 motherboard (~$108) that has 4 PCI-E slots so it will definitely accommodate all that you want to add in the future. It also has better future-looking support for M.2 and SATA Express which are nice bonuses, and according to the manual it has voltage options that you can try for undervolting the CPU for even more heat reduction.

If you don't mind stepping up to a larger motherboard and case, then you could get this cheaper ASRock H97 (non M) Anniversary motherboard (~$85), it easily has all the slots you need and then some. Pair that with a cheap case like the Bitfenix Comrade (~$35) and it'll come out cheaper than what you have now.

2. Still interested in cases with bottom mounted front ports? The other day when I was looking for a cheap mATX case, I came across this, the Thermaltake Urban S1 ($49) which has USB and audio ports on the bottom of the case. It only comes with a single 80mm fan though, so unless you have a spare 120mm fan on hand, I'd recommend buying one to improve airflow since you were concerned about heat, although the components you chose are already low-heat.

3. I think you should skip the blu ray drive too. You don't even need an optical drive to install Windows anymore.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-4790S 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($329.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Motherboard: MSI H97M-G43 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($108.15 @ DirectCanada)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport XT 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory (Purchased For $134.00)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($64.99 @ NCIX)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 960 4GB SuperSC ACX 2.0+ Video Card ($312.49 @ Amazon Canada)
Case: Thermaltake Urban S1 MicroATX Mini Tower Case ($48.95 @ Vuugo)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ NCIX)
Wireless Network Adapter: Gigabyte GC-WB867D-I 802.11a/b/g/n/ac PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter ($36.99 @ Newegg Canada)
Case Fan: Antec TRICOOL120MM 79.0 CFM 120mm Fan ($7.55 @ DirectCanada)
Total: $1078.10
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-21 18:53 EDT-0400

Well, about $90 was saved.. you could spend it on a better CPU heatsink that runs cooler and quieter than the stock intel cooler, or a better power supply to better support future upgrades. That EVGA PSU doesn't even meet bronze rating, but reviews say it's OK. If anyone else has recommendations for cheap, silent, and effective 120mm fans, feel free to chime in. The Antec Tricool is only there because I remember it having a three speed switch and it being pretty decent.. about 6 years ago.

Hoping for some feedback on my current build. I'm a gamer/programmer/game dev/3d modeler/whatever, so I do generally go a bit towards the enthusiast side of things.

processor: Intel Core i7-4790K

motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z97X

ram: Kingston HyperX FURY 8GB Kit (2x4GB) 1866MHz DDR3

fan: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO

GPU(already purchased): Sapphire Radeon VAPOR-X R9 280X 3GB

as far as SSD, HDD,case,PSU, I'll simply be reusing my current components.

These are the items I currently have in mind, as I listed, the GPU has been purchased already but the remainder of the items aren't set in stone. Performance is important to me but I'm not willing to go to extreme price ranges, so I was thinking these items were a good compromise. Comments/advice/recommendations are GREATLY appreciated.

Are you limited to buying from Amazon only, or are other retailers OK?

Just got a GTX 960 today, the ASUS Strix to be exact. It's such a huge upgrade over my last card which was a HD 7750. It's been able to keep 60fps at max settings for everything I've thrown at it barring DayZ. For reference, I have:

AMD FX 6300
ASUS Strix GTX 960
Corsair Vengeance 8gb RAM

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade!

I have a question though! It came with a free copy of Witcher 3 that will be sent in my email. Has anyone ever gotten a free game from a promotion like this? I want to know if it's a type of code I'll be able to sell on here for example.

Yeah, it'll be a redeemable key you get via email. It won't be tied to any account, you should be able to freely trade and sell it.

 

[ShyGuy0504]

I'm reading through this thread and it's making me impatient.

I'm waiting to see how the R9 3XX series and the Skylake processors turn out.

They'll be worth the wait right?

 

[Karspankey]

Yeah, it'll be a redeemable key you get via email. It won't be tied to any account, you should be able to freely trade and sell it.

Yes you can sell it here if you want in the B/S/T thread.

Alright! Thanks for responding quick! I plan on selling it as soon as I get it! Be sure to message me if you'll want it.

 

[oxrock]

Are you limited to buying from Amazon only, or are other retailers OK?

Newegg and the like are fine. Posted Amazon links so there no misunderstanding the products that i'm referring to. That and I've generally found the best prices there.

 

[smurfx]

i figure you guys might know so here it goes. what is the best sub 100 dollar router out there? i might go to 150 but i would prefer it being 100 or less.

can anybody help?

 

[Vhalyar]

Hmm, you didn't mention what country you were in? Where are you buying the parts? Do you have any preferred retailers that you're looking at?

Ah yeah, I'm in germany. No preferences, as long as it doesn't involve returns being annoying

 

[Skel1ingt0n]

Is the Acer IPS 144hz G-Sync still supposed to release next month?

 

[RGM79]

Is PCPartPicker loading slowly for anyone else? Seems very sluggish compared to yesterday.

can anybody help?

I asked you whether you needed wireless N or AC and I said Asus routers are generally pretty decent for performance, but I don't think you saw my reply.

I'm reading through this thread and it's making me impatient.

I'm waiting to see how the R9 3XX series and the Skylake processors turn out.

They'll be worth the wait right?

I'm waiting for them myself. And I'd recommend to others that they do the same (after they said themselves that they didn't mind waiting).

Don't burn me at the stake if they're not.

Newegg and the like are fine. Posted Amazon links so there no misunderstanding the products that i'm referring to. That and I've generally found the best prices there.

Sorry, I also forgot to ask you what your budget was. Also, what are the rest of your system specs? It'll be best to know for the sake of compatibility, but I assume normal ATX case? Here's what I would recommend.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-4790K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor ($324.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($29.98 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z97X-Gaming 5 ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($129.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: Kingston Savage 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-2133 Memory ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Total: $544.95
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-21 19:31 EDT-0400

You could also drop down to the i5 4690K to save some money and move up to 16GB, although I wonder if your 3D modelling programs will run better with a 4790K instead.

A cheaper motherboard alternative would be the Asus Z97-E ($109), decent price for the specs and brand, and it seems to be relatively new.

If you do want to get 16GB of RAM, then consider these two. Ares is a more compact design, while Sniper has a larger heatsink that may get in the way of the CPU cooler. Both are from Newegg, although you'll need that $10 discount code for the lower price.

16GB G.Skill Ares 2133MHz RAM for $105
16GB G.Skill Sniper 2400MHz RAM for $105

 

[kiyomi]

So... I've finally nailed down my list: http://ca.pcpartpicker.com/p/bPtgHx

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-4790S 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($329.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-B85M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($95.26 @ DirectCanada)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport XT 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($194.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($64.99 @ NCIX)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 960 4GB SuperSC ACX 2.0+ Video Card ($312.49 @ Amazon Canada)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ NCIX)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ NCIX)
Optical Drive: LG UH12NS30 Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer ($49.99 @ Canada Computers)
Wireless Network Adapter: Gigabyte GC-WB867D-I 802.11a/b/g/n/ac PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter ($36.99 @ Newegg Canada)
Total: $1169.68
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-21 17:52 EDT-0400

Rationale for choices:
- i7-4790S was actually relatively cheap, even if it's on special order right now. That, and low heat/power, which I like.
- The RAM price is wrong; I already purchased the 16GB stick on sale for $134 CAD
- Motherboard works with Haswell refresh out of the box, apparently. Are there better options out there? I'd prefer at least two PCI slots (not including the one blocked by the video card) for the WiFi card and a USB Type-C expansion in the future.
- GTX 960 4GB was released! That solves my graphics card 4GB requirement without compromising on performance.
- Do I really need a optical drive? I still have a PS3 for Blu-Rays, but I can't recall the last time I actually watched a Blu-Ray, or installed something through a DVD/CD.

Comment and critique is welcome

I'd echo RGM79's thoughts mostly here and although I think the N200 is a solid case for the price, going full ATX might be worth considering.

Unless you have a particular need for CUDA with your 960, I honestly feel the R9 280X is a better choice and it represents better value for money.

Also - no SSD?

 

[Reckoner]

Is the Acer IPS 144hz G-Sync still supposed to release next month?

Overclockers UK has the release date set to 15/04, so I guess so.

 

[Gambit61]

I'm reading through this thread and it's making me impatient.

I'm waiting to see how the R9 3XX series and the Skylake processors turn out.

They'll be worth the wait right?

I hope they're out in time for Witcher 3 and Batman Arkham Knight. I've been dying to upgrade from my 7870XT that's been acting weird lately.

 

[Ac30]

So... I've finally nailed down my list: http://ca.pcpartpicker.com/p/bPtgHx

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-4790S 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($329.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-B85M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($95.26 @ DirectCanada)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport XT 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($194.99 @ Amazon Canada)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($64.99 @ NCIX)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 960 4GB SuperSC ACX 2.0+ Video Card ($312.49 @ Amazon Canada)
Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($49.99 @ NCIX)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Certified ATX Power Supply ($34.99 @ NCIX)
Optical Drive: LG UH12NS30 Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer ($49.99 @ Canada Computers)
Wireless Network Adapter: Gigabyte GC-WB867D-I 802.11a/b/g/n/ac PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter ($36.99 @ Newegg Canada)
Total: $1169.68
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2015-03-21 17:52 EDT-0400

Rationale for choices:
- i7-4790S was actually relatively cheap, even if it's on special order right now. That, and low heat/power, which I like.
- The RAM price is wrong; I already purchased the 16GB stick on sale for $134 CAD
- Motherboard works with Haswell refresh out of the box, apparently. Are there better options out there? I'd prefer at least two PCI slots (not including the one blocked by the video card) for the WiFi card and a USB Type-C expansion in the future.
- GTX 960 4GB was released! That solves my graphics card 4GB requirement without compromising on performance.
- Do I really need a optical drive? I still have a PS3 for Blu-Rays, but I can't recall the last time I actually watched a Blu-Ray, or installed something through a DVD/CD.

Comment and critique is welcome

I would suggest going for something like this:

http://www.ncix.com/detail/gigabyte-radeon-r9-290-windforce-db-99167-1479.htm?affiliateid=7474144

It's $30 more, but far faster and has a 512-bit bus which won't strangle the 4GB memory. The 128-bit bus on the 960 will bottleneck that 4GB hard.

 

[Enosh]

man and there I was all happy with my new PC but then it started to make this really annoying high pitched noise when under heavy load (like BF4 with everything cranked up), some general listening around and I think it's the PSU (some cooler master G450M) and some googling said it's "coil whine", thought i could ignore it but nope, hear this shit even through headphones and it's really annoying -.-

best to just return it and get one that won't drive me mad right?

 

[xBladeM6x]

man and there I was all happy with my new PC but then it started to make this really annoying high pitched noise when under heavy load (like BF4 with everything cranked up), some general listening around and I think it's the PSU (some cooler master G450M) and some googling said it's "coil whine", thought i could ignore it but nope, hear this shit even through headphones and it's really annoying -.-

best to just return it and get one that won't drive me mad right?

Yep, unfortunately.