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[Elitist1945]

Spilled a full cup of chocolate milk on my K70 so it went bye bye. And I can't afford to buy a new keyboard till next payday and I have no spares. Pretty upset.

 

[MThanded]

Spilled a full cup of chocolate milk on my K70 so it went bye bye. And I can't afford to buy a new keyboard till next payday and I have no spares. Pretty upset.

Get a super cheap one from amazon in the mean time.

 

[Thraktor]

Also what is up with AMD these days? They seem to have much cheaper processors than intel with reasonable specs.

AMD processors aren't really recommended for gaming these days unless you're going with a very entry-level build. They've got new CPUs coming out around October that should be a significant improvement (they've basically started from scratch with their new Zen architecture) but we don't have any idea of pricing or real-world performance at this stage.

 

[kennah]

Might run out to micro center today.

I see they have the 6700k for 309. And more discount if i pair it with a motherboard.

Should i dump 309 into an i7 or is an i5 more than sufficient.

Also what is up with AMD these days? They seem to have much cheaper processors than intel with reasonable specs.

The specs are in number only. They haven't released a new processor in 4 years. Current intel i3 beats top end AMD at the same price point

309 for the 6700K is an awesome deal, go for it.

 

[NeoBob688]

I moved to a new apartment a few months ago. For the last month or so I have noticed that playing Dark Souls 3 on my computer trips the room's circuit breaker.

The only things I have connected in the room:
1) computer
2) monitor
3) modem
4) router

Does someone have any ideas what is wrong here?

EDIT: It is a 20 mA circuit and I have verified only the above are connected (no microwave or anything).

 

[JonnyDBrit]

Hoo boy.

Well Gaf, I'm planning to build my first PC this summer, as the laptop that I have used for the last few years has simply fallen too far behind to keep up with the current generation of games, even with a relatively recent upgrade to/replacement of its CPU.

I'm kind of looking at something similar to Haz's 'Great' build, due to a personally assigned budget of around £600-£700, and my originality. So that means:
CPU: i5 6600K 4C/4T @3.5
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z170XP-SLI
RAM: 2x8GB (16GB) DDR4 2400
Storage: 1TB WD Blue WD10EZEX
Power Supply: EVGA 650 GQ 650W
Case: Phanteks Eclipse P400
Optical Drive: SATA DVD Burner
Cooler/Heatsink: CM Hyper 212 EVO
Soundcard: Onboard?

Now there's a pretty obvious omission there - the graphics card, because well, this is probably one of the weirdest times to be picking one out. On the one hand cheaper would be more affordable in the immediate sense, but the 1070 would probably be the value choice in the long run, even if it would utterly break my aforementioned budget.

For reference, I would like to be able to play games like the Witcher 3, XCOM 2, Dark Souls 3, or Star Wars Battlefront, and in turn, play them at their higher settings - 30 FPS is acceptable, but the closer to 60 the better. Maybe that's not even possible with what I'm willing to spend - I honestly dunno. So recommendations would be gladly appreciated, and any alternate suggestions on the above similarly so - bearing in mind I'm probably going to pursue used prices and do live in the UK anyway.

 

[RamaTheVoice]

Welp, now I'm seriously considering building a new PC right now instead of next year. Here's my idea:

Case: Fractal Define R5
MB: Gigabyte GA-Z170XP-SLI
CPU: i5 6600K
Cooler: Antec Kuhler H1200 (I've heard good things, any advice?)
RAM: G.Skill Ripjaws V 2x8Gb DDR4-3000Mhz

Gonna scavenge the PSU (Corsair CS750M 80+ Gold), SSD (Samsung 500Gb 850 EVO), HDDs and GTX 980 from my current build, then sell the 980 and get a 1070 once they hit the 400€ mark.

I'm looking at a 652€ build. What do you think, PCGAF?

E: looking to game at 1440p downsampled (1080p60 monitor) but definitely upgrading to a WQHD monitor some time this year.

 

[Yawnny]

Hoo boy.

Well Gaf, I'm planning to build my first PC this summer, as the laptop that I have used for the last few years has simply fallen too far behind to keep up with the current generation of games, even with a relatively recent upgrade to/replacement of its CPU.

I'm kind of looking at something similar to Haz's 'Great' build, due to a personally assigned budget of around £600-£700, and my originality. So that means:
CPU: i5 6600K 4C/4T @3.5
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z170XP-SLI
RAM: 2x8GB (16GB) DDR4 2400
Storage: 1TB WD Blue WD10EZEX
Power Supply: EVGA 650 GQ 650W
Case: Phanteks Eclipse P400
Optical Drive: SATA DVD Burner
Cooler/Heatsink: CM Hyper 212 EVO
Soundcard: Onboard?

Now there's a pretty obvious omission there - the graphics card, because well, this is probably one of the weirdest times to be picking one out. On the one hand cheaper would be more affordable in the immediate sense, but the 1070 would probably be the value choice in the long run, even if it would utterly break my aforementioned budget.

For reference, I would like to be able to play games like the Witcher 3, XCOM 2, Dark Souls 3, or Star Wars Battlefront, and in turn, play them at their higher settings - 30 FPS is acceptable, but the closer to 60 the better. Maybe that's not even possible with what I'm willing to spend - I honestly dunno. So recommendations would be gladly appreciated, and any alternate suggestions on the above similarly so - bearing in mind I'm probably going to pursue used prices and do live in the UK anyway.

Step 1: Get the 1070
Step 2: Profit

In all seriousness though, if you add the 1070 you'll be running games at max settings and at least 60 FPS (mostly.. I'm looking at you, Witcher 3) presuming you're not running 4K.

SSD's are also really affordable right now, I'd throw one on there.

 

[Thraktor]

Hoo boy.

Well Gaf, I'm planning to build my first PC this summer, as the laptop that I have used for the last few years has simply fallen too far behind to keep up with the current generation of games, even with a relatively recent upgrade to/replacement of its CPU.

I'm kind of looking at something similar to Haz's 'Great' build, due to a personally assigned budget of around £600-£700, and my originality. So that means:
CPU: i5 6600K 4C/4T @3.5
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z170XP-SLI
RAM: 2x8GB (16GB) DDR4 2400
Storage: 1TB WD Blue WD10EZEX
Power Supply: EVGA 650 GQ 650W
Case: Phanteks Eclipse P400
Optical Drive: SATA DVD Burner
Cooler/Heatsink: CM Hyper 212 EVO
Soundcard: Onboard?

Now there's a pretty obvious omission there - the graphics card, because well, this is probably one of the weirdest times to be picking one out. On the one hand cheaper would be more affordable in the immediate sense, but the 1070 would probably be the value choice in the long run, even if it would utterly break my aforementioned budget.

For reference, I would like to be able to play games like the Witcher 3, XCOM 2, Dark Souls 3, or Star Wars Battlefront, and in turn, play them at their higher settings - 30 FPS is acceptable, but the closer to 60 the better. Maybe that's not even possible with what I'm willing to spend - I honestly dunno. So recommendations would be gladly appreciated, and any alternate suggestions on the above similarly so - bearing in mind I'm probably going to pursue used prices and do live in the UK anyway.

If you're trying to keep your budget down it would probably be worth waiting until reviews come out for AMD's new 480/480X, which should be on the 29th of June. They should be sub £250 and will probably give you better value than anything currently on the market below the 1070.

 

[InsertNameHere]

Hey, I have never built a PC and i'm on a tight budget. I found a monitor and keyboard for $100 total and everything added up would be around $630. What would these parts do for me? Would I be able to get away with playing new games at mid to high settings?

Computer case – Thermaltake Versa H22
Motherboard – Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G Micro ATX GA-78LMT
Video Card – EVGA GeForce GTX 950 2GB SSC
6300 Processor – AMD FX-6300 6-Core Processor Black Edition
RAM – Crucial 8GB Single DDR3
Hard Drive – Seagate 1TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 64MB Cache
CD Drive – Asus 24x DVD-RW
Power supply – EVGA 500w W1 80+

 

[cachorrillo92]

Is there a good (or at least descent) analog surround headset out there for max 100€?

I would take a look at kingston HyperX Cloud Gaming Headset (1st version). It is not surround but in my opinion is the best headset you can buy for little money. Seriously, it sounds amazing, have a good bass and it's very comfortable (even you can put it the velour pads of beyer 770).

PD: And the microphone is great.

 

[Thraktor]

Hey, I have never built a PC and i'm on a tight budget. I found a monitor and keyboard for $100 total and everything added up would be around $630. What would these parts do for me? Would I be able to get away with playing new games at mid to high settings?

Computer case – Thermaltake Versa H22
Motherboard – Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G Micro ATX GA-78LMT
Video Card – EVGA GeForce GTX 950 2GB SSC
6300 Processor – AMD FX-6300 6-Core Processor Black Edition
RAM – Crucial 8GB Single DDR3
Hard Drive – Seagate 1TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 64MB Cache
CD Drive – Asus 24x DVD-RW
Power supply – EVGA 500w W1 80+

You're better off switching to an Intel Core i3 (and matching motherboard) at that kind of price point. The GTX 950 is a decent little card, but AMD is likely to have new Polaris-based 470 and 470X cards due out in late June/early July in that kind of price range, so if you can afford to wait you'll probably get more for your money (even if it's just a better deal on the 950/960 if Nvidia drops prices to compete).

Edit: Also, do you really need the optical drive? I can't remember the last time I installed a game from disc.

 

[michaelius]

Might run out to micro center today.

I see they have the 6700k for 309. And more discount if i pair it with a motherboard.

Should i dump 309 into an i7 or is an i5 more than sufficient.

Also what is up with AMD these days? They seem to have much cheaper processors than intel with reasonable specs.

i7 is more future proof with DX12/Vulkan future
i5 days of glory where it gave 99% of i7 performance in games for 100$ are coming to the end

AMD cpus are trash and their price correctly reflects their value

 

[Cerity]

Hey, I have never built a PC and i'm on a tight budget. I found a monitor and keyboard for $100 total and everything added up would be around $630. What would these parts do for me? Would I be able to get away with playing new games at mid to high settings?

Computer case – Thermaltake Versa H22
Motherboard – Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G Micro ATX GA-78LMT
Video Card – EVGA GeForce GTX 950 2GB SSC
6300 Processor – AMD FX-6300 6-Core Processor Black Edition
RAM – Crucial 8GB Single DDR3
Hard Drive – Seagate 1TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 64MB Cache
CD Drive – Asus 24x DVD-RW
Power supply – EVGA 500w W1 80+

That motherboard has a really old chipset and I'm surprised it can even support am3+. Find a board that sports the 900 series, they'll at least have native SATA 3.0 and USB 3.0 so you won't have to deal with 3rd party implementations. If that gigabyte board has them at all.

 

[MThanded]

I impulse bought a bunch of stuff from microcenter today...

Will post what I purchased and get some feedback. Can always return

 

[roadrunn3r]

i7 is more future proof with DX12/Vulkan future
i5 days of glory where it gave 99% of i7 performance in games for 100$ are coming to the end

I agree with you in part in the sense that there are a lot more games nowadays that can take advantage of an i7. That said you definitely need to specify the context. 144hz gaming? Sure, an i7 is the way to go and the difference over an i5 is noticeable. 60fps? An i5 will have the same performance an i7 has in 99% of the games, same as those days of glory you talk about. Nothing has changed in this context and I don't recall many games where a 6600k would have trouble getting stable 60fps while a 6700k wouldn't. I would probably put that price difference into a better GPU if that is the case.

So recommendations would be gladly appreciated, and any alternate suggestions on the above similarly so - bearing in mind I'm probably going to pursue used prices and do live in the UK anyway.

No reason to not get DDR4 3000/3200 instead of 2400 given the Z170 chipset. It does make a difference sometimes and it's cheap enough.

 

[MThanded]

CORSAIR 16GB 8X2 D4 3000 VGN C15
ASROCK Z170GAMING ITX/AC LGA1151
CORSAIR CXM 650W 80+B SM PSU
CORSAIR CARBIDE AIR240 BLACK MATX
SAMSUNG E 500GB 850 EVO SSD
INTEL BOX INTEL CORE I7-6700K

This is what i bought. I'm waiting on the 1070 for a video card.

I wanted a smaller case so i decided to go with what seems to be one of the best in class ITX boards.

I have erred please lead me to greener pastures.


Edit:
Should I have gotten an Micro-atx instead of an ITX board. I don't plan on having dual cards.

 

[AstroNut325]

Trying to decide between these cases:

1) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811146190

2) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811353052

3) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129180

4) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811854029

My only requirements:
- Needs to be able to fit my R9 290X GPU which is 306mm (12.01").
- Must have filters for the fans/vents
- Decent cable management.

Leaning towards the Antec or the NZXT Phantom.

Thoughts?

 

[mjontrix]

I moved to a new apartment a few months ago. For the last month or so I have noticed that playing Dark Souls 3 on my computer trips the room's circuit breaker.

The only things I have connected in the room:
1) computer
2) monitor
3) modem
4) router

Does someone have any ideas what is wrong here?

EDIT: It is a 20 mA circuit and I have verified only the above are connected (no microwave or anything).

Electrical wiring issues? PSU really poor and doing something shifty? Get an electrician to check it out.

 

[kennah]

CORSAIR 16GB 8X2 D4 3000 VGN C15
ASROCK Z170GAMING ITX/AC LGA1151
CORSAIR CXM 650W 80+B SM PSU
CORSAIR CARBIDE AIR240 BLACK MATX
SAMSUNG E 500GB 850 EVO SSD
INTEL BOX INTEL CORE I7-6700K

This is what i bought. I'm waiting on the 1070 for a video card.

I wanted a smaller case so i decided to go with what seems to be one of the best in class ITX boards.

I have erred please lead me to greener pastures.


Edit:
Should I have gotten an Micro-atx instead of an ITX board. I don't plan on having dual cards.

MATX boards are cheaper. Only reason to get a itx board is if you're using an itx case.

 

[Tabasco]

I'm looking to purchase a new hard drive and was wondering what you guys would recommend.

WD caviar blue? for games by the way.

 

[MThanded]

MATX boards are cheaper. Only reason to get a itx board is if you're using an itx case.

My itx board was 129.99. What should i replace it with for that price point. Most of the micro-atx boards seemed more expensive.

Something that has wifi built in preferably if possible.

Not sure why the guy recommended this board over the micro atx asus 170 i was looking at.

Edit:
Yeah I am perplexed at why he suggested this board. I was confused because I did not know the difference between micro atx and itx. That's my fault for not doing enough research and deciding to go with a smaller case at the last minute.

 

[Dr.Horrible]

Is this a solid enough pc for some moderate gaming and photo processing? Too much?

https://store.hp.com/us/en/PDPStdVi...=-1&langId=-1&productId=1029658&storeId=10151

The stats are:

4.0 ghz
16 GB RAM
256gb ssd
2tb hard drive
Gtx 960

Cost is $1,400.

I don't really have much interest in a self build at the moment.

 

[doraemoe]

Hi Gaf! I'm thinking about building a new PC around i5 6600K and GTX 1070, but I have a few questions. I hope someone could help me on these points. Thanks!

CPU: I know i7 6700K is objectively better than i5 6600K, but it also nearly $200 more expansive here. As I'm still using a 1080P/60Hz monitor, I'm not sure it worth the investment. Now I kinda prefer i5 rather than i7 as most tests I checked show i5 6600K can do well under 1080P/60Hz. However I also heard i7 is better when using emulator and I do use Dolphin a lot, should I just go with i7 anyway? I will overclock my CPU btw.

CPU Cooler: I have no idea about this, but I prefer fan rather than liquid. Is there a good fan cooler out there that suit for overclock?

MB: I'm not sure which to buy, they all look good to me? How about Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H? I do prefer smaller MB, but will small MB have problems handling graphic card like 1070?

PSU: I totally have no idea about this, please send help ToT

Memory: Do the brand matters? I will go with 2*8GB, do clock matters? 2133MHz or 3000MHz?

SSD: Do Samsung 850 EVO series have any problems? They look good to me.

GPU: I will go with 1070 as I'm still using a 1080P/60Hz monitor.

Case: I have no idea, I don't mind the look of the case, but I do care about the airflow since I'm considering overclock, which one or brand should I buy?

WiFi: I use WiFi at home, so should I just buy a USB adapter or is there a card I can plug in MB (or is there a MB that support WiFi)?

I'm now living in Australia if this helps.

 

[kuYuri]

Is this a solid enough pc for some moderate gaming and photo processing? Too much?

https://store.hp.com/us/en/PDPStdVi...=-1&langId=-1&productId=1029658&storeId=10151

The stats are:

4.0 ghz
16 GB RAM
256gb ssd
2tb hard drive
Gtx 960

Cost is $1,400.

I don't really have much interest in a self build at the moment.

It's a decent PC, but wayyyy too expensive for the specs on it, could easily save a couple of hundred if you got it built, but I can't force you.

Hi Gaf! I'm thinking about building a new PC around i5 6600K and GTX 1070, but I have a few questions. I hope someone could help me on these points. Thanks!

CPU: I know i7 6700K is objectively better than i5 6600K, but it also nearly $200 more expansive here. As I'm still using a 1080P/60Hz monitor, I'm not sure it worth the investment. Now I kinda prefer i5 rather than i7 as most tests I checked show i5 6600K can do well under 1080P/60Hz. However I also heard i7 is better when using emulator and I do use Dolphin a lot, should I just go with i7 anyway? I will overclock my CPU btw.

CPU Cooler: I have no idea about this, but I prefer fan rather than liquid. Is there a good fan cooler out there that suit for overclock?

MB: I'm not sure which to buy, they all look good to me? How about Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H? I do prefer smaller MB, but will small MB have problems handling graphic card like 1070?

PSU: I totally have no idea about this, please send help ToT

Memory: Do the brand matters? I will go with 2*8GB, do clock matters? 2133MHz or 3000MHz?

SSD: Do Samsung 850 EVO series have any problems? They look good to me.

GPU: I will go with 1070 as I'm still using a 1080P/60Hz monitor.

Case: I have no idea, I don't mind the look of the case, but I do care about the airflow since I'm considering overclock, which one or brand should I buy?

WiFi: I use WiFi at home, so should I just buy a USB adapter or is there a card I can plug in MB (or is there a MB that support WiFi)?

I'm now living in Australia if this helps.

1. i5 will be more than enough for Dolphin. I had an old quad core from like 2010 or maybe even earlier and it was running Dolphin games fine.

2. Pretty much any aftermarket air cooler will be good, there's always the tried and true Hyper 212 EVO or one of those Noctua coolers.

3. That motherboard is fine, you can go Micro-ATX which is one step down in size and the 1070 will still fit on it just fine.

4. Recent evidence has shown higher clocked RAM can lead to higher framerates in some games. Considering the price difference between 2133 and 3200 can be as little as $22, I'd so go for higher clocked RAM if you can afford it. However, since you're only doing 1080p/60, it's probably not really worth it right now unless you were going for over 60 fps in games.

5. Samsung EVOs are some of the best SSDs on the market. Get it if you can afford it.

6. 1070 is good.

7. My recommendation is the Fractal Define R5, which is a solid case with good airflow.

8. Buy one of those Wi-Fi PCI-E cards, the Gigabyte one that people posted earlier is good apparently. http://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=4739#ov

9. For PSU, anything bronze-rated or above from EVGA and Corsair will be fine. Even a 500W bronze rated can get by fine, although since you want to overclock, I'd say go for 650-ish to play it safe. Gold rated is preferred if you can afford it and are often modular, which means cables can be plugged and unplugged as necessary.

 

[Dr.Horrible]

It's a decent PC, but wayyyy too expensive for the specs on it, could easily save a couple of hundred if you got it built, but I can't force you.

Yeah, I know, but I've no experience with a build and I'm not sure I have the patience to learn

 

[Mister Negative]

I've been using a Viewsonic VX2260WM since like, 2010. I currently have a 970 and I really want to buy a new monitor, since this thing has a ton of backlight bleed and generally looks kinda bad at times. Very low input lag, but I wish I had something that looked a little better.

Would it be worth it with a 970 to get a 1440p 144hz G-Sync monitor? I'd really like to have 144hz and G-Sync, and it seems like it's hard to find a 1080p version. I also feel like a 1080p monitor would be wasted, since I'll probably have a card that will play games at 1440p very easily in a couple of years.

Could a 970 take advantage of a 1440p monitor? Would it be worth it? I figure with G-Sync, my 60 FPS experience won't be degraded, at the very least, and the ROG Swift seems to make it very easy to toggle refresh rates on the fly if you want to just go back to 60hz. Would playing at 1080p look like crap on a 1440p monitor?

 

[kuYuri]

Yeah, I know, but I've no experience with a build and I'm not sure I have the patience to learn

Trust me, I was just like you a mere 2 years ago!

If you want, you can always find a local computer shop that does repairs and ask if they also build computers. I'm guessing they will charge around $100, which along with the price of the components, is still going to be equal to less than the $1400 HP is asking for and with better components!

I think the only thing you'll miss out on is Bluetooth.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-6700K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor ($349.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($29.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($92.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Aegis 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-2133 Memory ($73.69 @ Amazon)
Storage: A-Data Premier SP550 240GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($56.99 @ NCIX US)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 3TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($79.11 @ Amazon)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 960 4GB SuperSC ACX 2.0+ Video Card ($209.99 @ Newegg)
Case: NZXT S340 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($64.99 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($39.99 @ NCIX US)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Home OEM (64-bit) ($84.99 @ NCIX US)
Wireless Network Adapter: Gigabyte GC-WB867D-I 802.11a/b/g/n/ac PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter ($35.75 @ Amazon)
Keyboard: Cooler Master CM Storm Devastator Gaming Bundle Wired Gaming Keyboard w/Optical Mouse ($28.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $1147.45
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-05-30 21:45 EDT-0400

This is just an approximation of the HP build, but with some better components. Feel free to change it as you see fit.

 

[MThanded]

Whats the best Micro-ATX motherboard for me to replace that ITX purchase with?

 

[Shifty Capone1]

Yeah, I know, but I've no experience with a build and I'm not sure I have the patience to learn

Both MicroCenter and Frys Electronics will charge $50 to build it. NCIX will also charge $50 and you can order all parts price matched through them. That is by far the best option.

 

[kuYuri]

Both MicroCenter and Frys Electronics will charge $50 to build it. NCIX will also charge $50 and you can order all parts price matched through them. That is by far the best option.

Not sure about other Micro Centers, but the one near me charges $140, which is quite a rip off.

 

[kennah]

My itx board was 129.99. What should i replace it with for that price point. Most of the micro-atx boards seemed more expensive.

Something that has wifi built in preferably if possible.

Not sure why the guy recommended this board over the micro atx asus 170 i was looking at.

Edit:
Yeah I am perplexed at why he suggested this board. I was confused because I did not know the difference between micro atx and itx. That's my fault for not doing enough research and deciding to go with a smaller case at the last minute.

It was probably the need for onboard wifi that swayed the purchase of that board. That said, $120 is a great price for it. You're fine sticking with that because a MATX with a wifi card would be closer to $200. (I just did a quick check on Microcenter's website)

If anything, get a smaller case

 

[Dr.Horrible]

snip

Both MicroCenter and Frys Electronics will charge $50 to build it. NCIX will also charge $50 and you can order all parts price matched through them. That is by far the best option.

Thank you both for the input, I appreciate it. I don't have MC or Fry's near me, but I'll definitely inquire with some local computer repair places or NCIX. I hadn't even thought of that for some reason.

 

[Indignate]

Building a budget PC for my little brother. He'll mainly use it for Minecraft and whatever COD game is out right now. I have a 770 already that I'm going to toss in there, but everything else I need fresh. Just looking for opinions on if this looks alright or if I could switch anything out to be more cost efficient.

Also need a wireless adapter. Any recommendations?

EDIT: Seems like people have been recommending this http://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=4739#ov so might just go with it.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i3-6100 3.7GHz Dual-Core Processor ($110.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-B150M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($57.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ripjaws V Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR4-2400 Memory ($34.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($47.49 @ OutletPC)
Case: Corsair 100R ATX Mid Tower Case ($39.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: Corsair CX 500W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply ($37.98 @ Newegg)
Total: $329.41
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-05-30 22:32 EDT-0400

 

[MThanded]

It was probably the need for onboard wifi that swayed the purchase of that board. That said, $120 is a great price for it. You're fine sticking with that because a MATX with a wifi card would be closer to $200. (I just did a quick check on Microcenter's website)

If anything, get a smaller case

When I asked for a mobo I didn't mention that...

Well I'm open to getting a itx case. However it would probably be an ncase m1. That looks like an amazing setup.

Staying with the itx form factor could be limiting. Trying to find a decent and clean looking itx case with decent cooling options

Finding a micro atx mobo and slapping an AC usb wifi adapter in it could probably be more cost effective.

 

[Nyteshade517]

I've seen some things saying not to buy OEM operating systems and saying to always just buy the full retail version

Is there anything I should be wary of when the time comes and I have to buy an OS?

(sorry if this is a stupid question)

 

[TheExodu5]

I've seen some things saying not to buy OEM operating systems and saying to always just buy the full retail version

Is there anything I should be wary of when the time comes and I have to buy an OS?

(sorry if this is a stupid question)

My current recommendation:

Buy OEM from here:
https://www.reddit.com/r/microsoftsoftwareswap/

Currently, you can even use a Windows 8 key for Windows 10 (a Windows 7/8 key works in the Windows 10 installer). That'll cost you $15-20. Windows 10 straight up will be $25-35. Way cheaper than the alternative.

They're legit, in a way. The keys are legit...extra licenses likely from batch corporate licenses that these guys are selling off.

 

[LegionAgent]

Hey guys, I'm thinking of buying one of this coolers for my CPU before I overclock it. Which one would you recommend?

Coolermaster Seidon

Thermaltake Water 3.0 Performer

Corsair Hydro Series H55

 

[K' Dash]

So, this strange thing just happened to me:

I was changing the RAM speed from 2133mhz to 3000mhz which is the correct speed for that RAM, the on board graphics went crazy (I'm using on board because I'm waiting for my GPU to arrive), the TV would not recognize the HDMI signal unless I unpluged and pluged the HDMI cable, worked 1 minute and the signal was lost again.

After I tried to check if it was something with intel graphics bullshit or handshake issues I changed the RAM speed back to auto (2133mhz) and everything worked again.

The question is: did I fuck up? should I be worried? has that happened to anyone?

Specs:

i5 6600K stock clocks
16GB DDR4 Corsair RAM
Z170 MSI Gaming M3 Motherboard

Edit: My TV is an old 1080p Samsung TV

 

[doraemoe]

1. i5 will be more than enough for Dolphin. I had an old quad core from like 2010 or maybe even earlier and it was running Dolphin games fine.

2. Pretty much any aftermarket air cooler will be good, there's always the tried and true Hyper 212 EVO or one of those Noctua coolers.

3. That motherboard is fine, you can go Micro-ATX which is one step down in size and the 1070 will still fit on it just fine.

4. Recent evidence has shown higher clocked RAM can lead to higher framerates in some games. Considering the price difference between 2133 and 3200 can be as little as $22, I'd so go for higher clocked RAM if you can afford it. However, since you're only doing 1080p/60, it's probably not really worth it right now unless you were going for over 60 fps in games.

5. Samsung EVOs are some of the best SSDs on the market. Get it if you can afford it.

6. 1070 is good.

7. My recommendation is the Fractal Define R5, which is a solid case with good airflow.

8. Buy one of those Wi-Fi PCI-E cards, the Gigabyte one that people posted earlier is good apparently. http://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=4739#ov

9. For PSU, anything bronze-rated or above from EVGA and Corsair will be fine. Even a 500W bronze rated can get by fine, although since you want to overclock, I'd say go for 650-ish to play it safe. Gold rated is preferred if you can afford it and are often modular, which means cables can be plugged and unplugged as necessary.

Wow, thanks a lot for all the answers! I have made a part list for now (without GPU of course). Apparently there is no re-seller for that Gigabyte WiFi card in Australia, so guess I will go with another one.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i5-6600K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor ($333.00 @ Centre Com)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212X 82.9 CFM CPU Cooler ($49.00 @ CPL Online)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($185.00 @ Umart)
Memory: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200 Memory ($124.00 @ CPL Online)
Storage: Samsung 850 EVO-Series 500GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($207.00 @ IJK)
Case: Fractal Design Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($169.00 @ CPL Online)
Power Supply: EVGA SuperNOVA NEX 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($129.00 @ CPL Online)
Total: $1196.00
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-05-31 14:16 AEST+1000

Some more questions, I've search and find some people are suggesting ASUS Z170-AR/Gigabyte GA-Z170X-UD3 motherboard, but that would be around $70 more expensive than current build, is that worth it? I can't see much difference beside USB 3.0/3.1. How about MSI Z170A PC Mate? This one is around the same price.

 

[Aztechnology]

Wow, thanks a lot for all the answers! I have made a part list for now (without GPU of course). Apparently there is no re-seller for that Gigabyte WiFi card in Australia, so guess I will go with another one.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i5-6600K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor ($333.00 @ Centre Com)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212X 82.9 CFM CPU Cooler ($49.00 @ CPL Online)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($185.00 @ Umart)
Memory: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200 Memory ($124.00 @ CPL Online)
Storage: Samsung 850 EVO-Series 500GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($207.00 @ IJK)
Case: Fractal Design Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($169.00 @ CPL Online)
Power Supply: EVGA SuperNOVA NEX 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($129.00 @ CPL Online)
Total: $1196.00
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-05-31 14:16 AEST+1000

Some more questions, I've search and find some people are suggesting ASUS Z170-AR/Gigabyte GA-Z170X-UD3 motherboard, but that would be around $70 more expensive than current build, is that worth it? I can't see much difference. How about MSI Z170A PC Mate? This one is around the same price.

Holy crap those prices are high . Where are you located?

 

[Wowfunhappy]

1. i5 will be more than enough for Dolphin. I had an old quad core from like 2010 or maybe even earlier and it was running Dolphin games fine.

I will expand on this—not only will an i5 6600k be enough for Dolphin, it will perform JUST AS WELL as an i7 6700k would—more if you can overclock it higher (and the 6600k can generally be clocked higher than the 6700k).

This is because Dolphin can only use at most two cores. What matters is single core performance. So it doesn't benefit from the i7's hyper-threading at all.

 

[Megabat]

Spilled a full cup of chocolate milk on my K70 so it went bye bye. And I can't afford to buy a new keyboard till next payday and I have no spares. Pretty upset.

Get a tank. My Lenovo business keyboard was ~$25. I have spilled orange juice, water, and hot tea on that thing.

There's a layer of plastic under the keys, then rubber. Liquid just drains out the bottom.

 

[doraemoe]

Holy crap those prices are high . Where are you located?

Australia (´╥ω╥`)

I will expand on this—not only will an i5 6600k be enough for Dolphin, it will perform JUST AS WELL as an i7 6700k would—more if you can overclock it higher (and the 6600k can generally be clocked higher than the 6700k).

This is because Dolphin can only use at most two cores. What matters is single core performance. So it doesn't benefit from the i7's hyper-threading at all.

Thanks buddy, I will stick with i5.

 

[Wowfunhappy]

Get a tank. My Lenovo business keyboard was ~$25. I have spilled orange juice, water, and hot tea on that thing.

There's a layer of plastic under the keys, then rubber. Liquid just drains out the bottom.

Does this not affect the typing experience? My gut reaction to hearing that "there's a layer of plastic and rubber under the keys" is to think they would feel horribly rubbery.

 

[Aztechnology]

Australia (´╥ω╥`)



Thanks buddy, I will stick with i5.

I feel for you man.

 

[littleworm]

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i7-6700K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor ($338.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($24.89 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: MSI Z170A GAMING M5 ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($147.98 @ Newegg)
Memory: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($69.88 @ OutletPC)
Storage: Samsung 850 EVO-Series 500GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($149.99 @ NCIX US)
Storage: Western Digital BLACK SERIES 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($72.89 @ OutletPC)
Case: Fractal Design Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($84.99 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: EVGA 750W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($89.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($17.89 @ OutletPC)
Total: $997.49
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-05-31 00:56 EDT-0400

Looking going with this build. For the GPU I'm gonna use my current 970 and probably get a 1070 a few months down the road. Anything in this build underkill/overkill? I'll probably be staying at 1080p for a while and it'll be a while before I start thinking about VR.

 

[opticalmace]

Looking going with this build. For the GPU I'm gonna use my current 970 and probably get a 1070 a few months down the road. Anything in this build underkill/overkill? I'll probably be staying at 1080p for a while and it'll be a while before I start thinking about VR.

Solid build. No real changes, though you could go to a lower wattage PSU if you wanted (I don't know if the, e.g., 650 G2 is as well built as the 750 however).

edit: can you maybe save some money on the HDD? Or put up a bit more and just go pure SSD. Just a thought.

I am also not a fan of MSI boards, but YMMV. I'd probably go to Asus or Gigabyte.

 

[littleworm]

Solid build. No real changes, though you could go to a lower wattage PSU if you wanted (I don't know if the, e.g., 650 G2 is as well built as the 750 however).

edit: can you maybe save some money on the HDD? Or put up a bit more and just go pure SSD. Just a thought.

I am also not a fan of MSI boards, but YMMV. I'd probably go to Asus or Gigabyte.

Alright, I'll definitely look in to that. Though admitally motherboards are probably what I know the least about, what are some things that I should consider?

 

[Matty8787]

So pre ordering the 1080 today...

Wanting to get the inno3d Ichill but weary about their RMA process and how loud does the Ichill cooler get?

Too many negatives and I'll opt for the EVGA superclocked.

Thoughts?