So, taking some advice given to me on an old topic, I've come up with this build:
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks
CPU: Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($159.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-H87-D3H ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: Avexir Core series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-2133 Memory ($78.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Sandisk ReadyCache 32GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($39.27 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: Asus GeForce GTX 770 2GB Video Card ($328.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: NZXT H2 Classic Silent (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: EVGA 600B 600W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($44.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224BB DVD/CD Writer ($24.50 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (32/64-bit) ($98.99 @ NCIX US)
Monitor: Asus VS278Q-P 27.0" Monitor ($239.99 @ NCIX US)
Other: Webcam ($29.99)
Other: Bluetooth Adapter ($19.99)
Total: $1325.63
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-09 23:51 EDT-0400)
I want to cut costs, but I don't want to sacrifice performance. My budget is $1,500 (USD) Now, I don't want to overclock, so take that into account. Here's what I don't mind cutting costs on:
Mobo (Intel chipset, please)
Power Supply (Only need ~430 watts)
Optical Drive (not part of my everyday life, but I have some programs that'll use a CD/DVD)
Uses:
Minecraft, while recording (FRAPS if I go with Windows)
Minecraft Forge
Windows Movie Maker (if I go with Windows)
YouTubing
SimCity 5
Battlefield 4 (maybe)
Watch_Dogs (when released)
Basic web browsing, video chatting, social networking etc.
Small music library
Very small movie library
Questions:
How would Linux (think Ubuntu) perform on a PC with my above needs?
Do I need a Bluetooth adapter, or is that included on an existing part? (i.e. mobo, Wi-Fi chip etc)
EDIT: So before, I said don't criticize the monitor, case or mouse. Well, please critique my monitor and suggest an ergodynamic mouse, but please don't mess with my case.
Thanks for your time!
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks
CPU: Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($159.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-H87-D3H ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: Avexir Core series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-2133 Memory ($78.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Sandisk ReadyCache 32GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($39.27 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: Asus GeForce GTX 770 2GB Video Card ($328.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: NZXT H2 Classic Silent (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: EVGA 600B 600W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($44.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224BB DVD/CD Writer ($24.50 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (32/64-bit) ($98.99 @ NCIX US)
Monitor: Asus VS278Q-P 27.0" Monitor ($239.99 @ NCIX US)
Other: Webcam ($29.99)
Other: Bluetooth Adapter ($19.99)
Total: $1325.63
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-09 23:51 EDT-0400)
I want to cut costs, but I don't want to sacrifice performance. My budget is $1,500 (USD) Now, I don't want to overclock, so take that into account. Here's what I don't mind cutting costs on:
Mobo (Intel chipset, please)
Power Supply (Only need ~430 watts)
Optical Drive (not part of my everyday life, but I have some programs that'll use a CD/DVD)
Uses:
Minecraft, while recording (FRAPS if I go with Windows)
Minecraft Forge
Windows Movie Maker (if I go with Windows)
YouTubing
SimCity 5
Battlefield 4 (maybe)
Watch_Dogs (when released)
Basic web browsing, video chatting, social networking etc.
Small music library
Very small movie library
Questions:
How would Linux (think Ubuntu) perform on a PC with my above needs?
Do I need a Bluetooth adapter, or is that included on an existing part? (i.e. mobo, Wi-Fi chip etc)
EDIT: So before, I said don't criticize the monitor, case or mouse. Well, please critique my monitor and suggest an ergodynamic mouse, but please don't mess with my case.
Thanks for your time!
25
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ThouGreatnessFishfam4ThouGreatnessFirst off, I know you said not to mention the mouse, but even as a hardcore Apple fanboy I find the mouse that you chose pretty uncomfortable. And after about 6-12 months (depending on how much you use it) the scroll ball tends to.. well... decide not to scroll as it should. It's a great mouse for everyday use, but I can't even begin to imagine playing something like BF4 with it...
I chose the Magic Mouse (doesn't have a scroll bar), but it should have roughly the same form factor. Maybe I'll look for something more ergodynamic...
Ohh. The picture in the part info that's on pcpartpicker is an older model of the Magic Mouse, and I figured you were going with that one, not the newer one. I've used both versions extensively. And again, the newer magic mouse looks great, and it's very nice for web browsing and everyday use because of the shortcuts that you can perform on it, but it's not good for gaming. In fact, you can accidentally swipe the surface of the mouse very easily, and it will go flying through your hotbar on Minecraft while you're trying to play. This happened to me quite often :S
Like I said, I would really recommend this mouse for anything but gaming.
I found this nice one from Logitech:
http://gaming.logitech.com/en-us/produc ... ming-mouse
(LOL, exact opposite of Apple's minimalistic design. )
Ok, so after reading up on the subject, I'm going to get the 64-bit full version of Windows 8. I haven't found out much on the subject of Bluetooth...
Also, would it be possible to host a MC server on this computer? Should I add an extra 8GB of RAM? What else should I change/add in order to host? (Server would have a absolute max of 50 people online at once)
Also, would it be possible to host a MC server on this computer? Should I add an extra 8GB of RAM? What else should I change/add in order to host? (Server would have a absolute max of 50 people online at once)
You could probably host a medium size server with good performance, if you weren't playing while the server is up. I wouldn't recommend hosting a server on this though. 8GB more ram = ~$65. It might be better to just go with a good server host.
Keep in mind that server hosts will probably have more reliable equipment that's geared for hosting servers. Not gaming.
Keep in mind that server hosts will probably have more reliable equipment that's geared for hosting servers. Not gaming.
I know, but I don't know very many hosting companies other than MCProHosting, which seems expensive...
If you have good internet, it might be worth trying to host your own server. +8GB of Ram can't hurt. But again, 24/7 servers with top of the line equipment can be hard to beat. It all depends on what you want, and what you're willing to pay for it though.
Fishfam4ThouGreatnessFirst off, I know you said not to mention the mouse, but even as a hardcore Apple fanboy I find the mouse that you chose pretty uncomfortable. And after about 6-12 months (depending on how much you use it) the scroll ball tends to.. well... decide not to scroll as it should. It's a great mouse for everyday use, but I can't even begin to imagine playing something like BF4 with it...
I chose the Magic Mouse (doesn't have a scroll bar), but it should have roughly the same form factor. Maybe I'll look for something more ergodynamic...
Ohh. The picture in the part info that's on pcpartpicker is an older model of the Magic Mouse, and I figured you were going with that one, not the newer one. I've used both versions extensively. And again, the newer magic mouse looks great, and it's very nice for web browsing and everyday use because of the shortcuts that you can perform on it, but it's not good for gaming. In fact, you can accidentally swipe the surface of the mouse very easily, and it will go flying through your hotbar on Minecraft while you're trying to play. This happened to me quite often :S
Like I said, I would really recommend this mouse for anything but gaming.
I still haven't gotten an answer to my questions yet:
1) Should I use Windows 8 or Linux? If the latter, which kernel?
2) Do I need a Bluetooth adapter, or is Bluetooth connectivity included with an existing part (i.e. mobo)?
1) Should I use Windows 8 or Linux? If the latter, which kernel?
2) Do I need a Bluetooth adapter, or is Bluetooth connectivity included with an existing part (i.e. mobo)?
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks
CPU: Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($159.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-H87-D3H ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: G.Skill Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($89.46 @ OutletPC)
Storage: Sandisk ReadyCache 32GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($38.88 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: Gigabyte GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($249.99 @ Newegg)
Case: NZXT H2 Classic Silent (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: EVGA 600B 600W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($44.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224BB DVD/CD Writer ($24.50 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 - 64-bit (OEM) (64-bit) ($97.26 @ OutletPC)
Monitor: BenQ GW2750HM 27.0" Monitor ($189.99 @ NCIX US)
Other: Webcam ($29.99)
Other: Bluetooth Adapter ($19.99)
Total: $1204.99
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-10 00:40 EDT-0400)
I have downgraded the GPU, but you'll still run every game on high for a while.
The Monitor costs less.
Changed the Memory around.
CPU: Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($159.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-H87-D3H ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: G.Skill Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($89.46 @ OutletPC)
Storage: Sandisk ReadyCache 32GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($38.88 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: Gigabyte GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($249.99 @ Newegg)
Case: NZXT H2 Classic Silent (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: EVGA 600B 600W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($44.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224BB DVD/CD Writer ($24.50 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 - 64-bit (OEM) (64-bit) ($97.26 @ OutletPC)
Monitor: BenQ GW2750HM 27.0" Monitor ($189.99 @ NCIX US)
Other: Webcam ($29.99)
Other: Bluetooth Adapter ($19.99)
Total: $1204.99
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-10 00:40 EDT-0400)
I have downgraded the GPU, but you'll still run every game on high for a while.
The Monitor costs less.
Changed the Memory around.
I would save money with swapping out that DDR3 - 2100. DDR3 2100 requires it to be overclocked to get to its rated speed. Your mobo will NOT default to it. It will normally default to DDR3 - 1333, maybe if your lucky DDR3 - 1600
I would suggest going with a cheaper DDR3 - 1600 Package as 1600 does not need a overclock (not anymore at least) DDR3 - 1600 RAM also has the best performance vs other sticks when its Latency is at its default value.
I would suggest going with a cheaper DDR3 - 1600 Package as 1600 does not need a overclock (not anymore at least) DDR3 - 1600 RAM also has the best performance vs other sticks when its Latency is at its default value.
Edited in a revised version of the part list into the OP. Dropped heat sink, fans, USB hub and wireless adapter, swapped EVGA 770 and Asus monitor for Asus 770 and slightly different Asus monitor. Went with 32GB SSD instead of 60GB. (SSD is for OS and other files I'll use alot) Where these all good changes? What else should I change?
Oh, and please answer my original questions (About Linux and Bluetooth adapters).
Oh, and please answer my original questions (About Linux and Bluetooth adapters).
ThouGreatnessFirst off, I know you said not to mention the mouse, but even as a hardcore Apple fanboy I find the mouse that you chose pretty uncomfortable. And after about 6-12 months (depending on how much you use it) the scroll ball tends to.. well... decide not to scroll as it should. It's a great mouse for everyday use, but I can't even begin to imagine playing something like BF4 with it...
I chose the Magic Mouse (doesn't have a scroll bar), but it should have roughly the same form factor. Maybe I'll look for something more ergodynamic...
Ways to cut cost:
Your CPU should come with a stock heatsink, so you can take out the custom one (Wouldn't blame you for choosing the 3rd party one, though.)
It does, but would editing 30GB of video from FRAPS in Windows Movie Maker cause enough heat to warrant a separate heat sink? At least, my logic says yes, but I don't know much about computer cooling...
Unnecessary case fans can be ditched. Your case comes with 3 120mm fans.
OK, but I've read that the included fans aren't that great. They should work fine, though...
You would suffer a decent performance loss, but you could cut almost $100 by going with a GTX 760. This should still play what you want to play with no problem.
I had the 760 in my previous build list, but Randomness said that I should get at least a 770, so I did.
Also the case, but you said to leave that alone so I will.
Yeah, I know it's expensive, but it has 4 USB ports, whereas the one I had on my previous list only had 2.
I really appriciate your advice!
As a network administrator who repairs computers all the time.... Do not get a Mac. You'll be paying way too much for way too little. They are solid machines, but not solid enough to justify the price. Since you are purchasing the processor at Microcenter, check as they usually have pretty good bundles. You could potentially save some money on the motherboard. Also, is the wireless adapter required? If you aren't overclocking then you could get away with the stock cooler (could always upgrade later). The 3.0 usb hub probably isn't a necessity. Unless you think you will eventually have 32GB of RAM in that motherboard you would actually get better performance running dual 4GB sticks instead of the single 8GB.
Edit: If you are stuck on a 27" monitor, you can likely find another the same size that is less expensive.
Edit: If you are stuck on a 27" monitor, you can likely find another the same size that is less expensive.
On the subject if Macs, I really love them, but I'm not considering buying one. They aren't very good for gaming, apparently.
There's a brick-and-mortar Microcenter about 30 minutes away from my house, so I'll check for bundles next time I visit.
It didn't occur to me to remove the wireless adapter or the USB hub, as those are remnants of my older list. The mobo has 802.11n Wi-Fi (although having ac would be nice, as my router has it) and my case has 4 USB panels.
Cooler and RAM: Noted.
Thanks!
There's a brick-and-mortar Microcenter about 30 minutes away from my house, so I'll check for bundles next time I visit.
It didn't occur to me to remove the wireless adapter or the USB hub, as those are remnants of my older list. The mobo has 802.11n Wi-Fi (although having ac would be nice, as my router has it) and my case has 4 USB panels.
Cooler and RAM: Noted.
Thanks!
A Seagate Barracuda can be a good replacement for the WD.
First off, I know you said not to mention the mouse, but even as a hardcore Apple fanboy I find the mouse that you chose pretty uncomfortable. And after about 6-12 months (depending on how much you use it) the scroll ball tends to.. well... decide not to scroll as it should. It's a great mouse for everyday use, but I can't even begin to imagine playing something like BF4 with it...
Ways to cut cost:
Your CPU should come with a stock heatsink, so you can take out the custom one (Wouldn't blame you for choosing the 3rd party one, though.)
Unnecessary case fans can be ditched. Your case comes with 3 120mm fans.
You would suffer a decent performance loss, but you could cut almost $100 by going with a GTX 760. This should still play what you want to play with no problem.
Also the case, but you said to leave that alone so I will.
I'm not as experienced as some others that will probably comment on this (Randomness3333), so if they strike out something that I said, take their word over mine
Ways to cut cost:
Your CPU should come with a stock heatsink, so you can take out the custom one (Wouldn't blame you for choosing the 3rd party one, though.)
Unnecessary case fans can be ditched. Your case comes with 3 120mm fans.
You would suffer a decent performance loss, but you could cut almost $100 by going with a GTX 760. This should still play what you want to play with no problem.
Also the case, but you said to leave that alone so I will.
I'm not as experienced as some others that will probably comment on this (Randomness3333), so if they strike out something that I said, take their word over mine
Other: USB 3.0 Hub ($22.99)
But no, legit, the hub is pretty useless, for now. Since you are using your Mac's mouse/keyboard, you will have two usb's free. If you drop the mouse (you can get cheaper ones, but its whatever, as you already have a keyboard :b)
But other than that, you can't really cut back, with out slowing it down (maybe drop the SSD? I dunno if you'd need it)
But no, legit, the hub is pretty useless, for now. Since you are using your Mac's mouse/keyboard, you will have two usb's free. If you drop the mouse (you can get cheaper ones, but its whatever, as you already have a keyboard :b)
But other than that, you can't really cut back, with out slowing it down (maybe drop the SSD? I dunno if you'd need it)
ugh get a mac
I agree with killer toad... So much easier, and they have such great quality.
(Hate comments not welcome)
(Hate comments not welcome)
Hey, if you have the money, Macs can be great investments.
Nope, Not really Lol. Especially for gaming just build a computer.. Waste of money tbh :/
I'm not looking to start a Mac vs. PC flamewar here, because it's all based on opinion. In your opinion, it might be a waste of money. But in someone else's eyes, it could be a great investment. And well worth the money.
Incoming hate comments in 5....4....3....2....1
wut
If you want to save money, sad, and cpu cooler. You can get a cheaper 770 and i'd consider getting a cheaper case.
If you want to save money, sad, and cpu cooler. You can get a cheaper 770 and i'd consider getting a cheaper case.
troll but yeah, what he said too
