http://pcpartpicker.com/p/1TZ6X
This is my current computer build (subject to change) and I could use some suggestions and opinions on it. I'm trying to keep it low in price and for it to at least run most games and high settings.
you don't need 16 gigs of ram go with 8 and save some money there or put that money into getting a ssd to speed your computer up
16GB is a bit overkill. 8GB will be fine for gaming.
I'd find a power supply that is 550w+. Otherwise it looks pretty good.
I changed my ram to 8gb and now I'm looking at 550+ PSU. Should I be worried about the efficiency and also the company that manufactures it?
Try this...
http://pcpartpicker.com/p/1U2fA
I switched out the motherboard for a better one, and the PSU is much better (in terms of build quality) than the one you were previously considering. You could honestly get away with a high quality 450w unit, but this is pretty good for the price.
If possible, I would also consider dropping that Micro$oft "gaming" keyboard in favor of a cheap $10-15 keyboard for the time being. Use that extra cash to get a better CPU. Something like the FX 8320 would be great. Then you can save up and get a far better mechanical keyboard. I wouldn't bother with the Micro$oft $idewinder. It's overpriced for what you're getting.
By the way, what's your maximum budget for this build? With this info, I may be able to squeeze in better parts.
I'd prefer something cheap but powerful. I also have to buy a monitor, but I need to finalize my computer build first. Do I really need the better chipset? Will it make a big impact? And finally, is the cpu cooler necessary?
I'd prefer something cheap but powerful. I also have to buy a monitor, but I need to finalize my computer build first.
I need a definitive budget for your entire build. What is the maximum amount you're willing to spend on all of this? I noticed the build you posted above was around $800, so I tried to stay faithful to that price point.
Do I really need the better chipset? Will it make a big impact?
It isn't so much about chipset as it is "features for the money." With the board I chose, you get superior power delivery (which helps with overclocking), and the ability to crossfire/SLI. If neither of these things concern you, then it won't really matter.
And finally, is the cpu cooler necessary?
Only if you plan on overclocking your CPU or care about acoustic levels.
If I were to do a crossfire with the 7950 and only one monitor, wouldn't be a waste? I thought crossfire was primarily used for duel monitors, I'm probably wrong like usual but better to ask and then find out. I probably won't go for dual monitors until I have a little more space. As for overclocking, I think I probably will for the 8320, to get it near the 8350. I'm not sure what the limits are for overclocking... but I've heard it can safely be overclocked up to a 8350. And thanks a ton man, I really appreciate this. I probably will go with your build, it's only $50 more for what you're suggesting. I won't overclock RIGHT away, so I'll buy the cooler at a later time.
SLI/Crossfire can be used to drive multiple monitors, but its primary purpose is to improve FPS in games. There are quite a few games out there that can take advantage of the extra GPU power. Also, in a couple of years, a single 7950 isn't going to be able to max out games at 60 FPS. This is where an extra 7950 would come in handy. And at that point, I'm willing to bet you'd be able to find one for cheap on Ebay.
I'm quite certain you'll be able to reach 4 GHz on a 8320. You'll need to make sure you select a motherboard that can handle overclocking, and you'll want to grab a decent CPU cooler. The Hyper 212 Evo should be able to get you there. I recommend you watch some overclocking tutorials before you begin tinkering.
And no problem. I'm glad I could help.
I'll pick up the extra GPU later along with overclocking the processor. But if I were to go with a 970 chipset, would I be fine? Or is it worth the extra money for the 990X?
The 970 chipset doesn't fully support crossfire. If you were to try to crossfire your GPU with another, the second lane would bottleneck the performance of your second card. The 990FX chipset is definitely worth the extra money. You'll also want to make sure your PSU has enough wattage if you plan on adding a second GPU in the future.
Here, I revised your build for you...
http://pcpartpicker.com/p/1UByI
750w should be plenty. It's 80+ Bronze certified, and it's great for the money.
I guess the next step is saving up $850 xD Plus a monitor... It'll be well worth it though :D
It appears the HD 7950 has gone up in price. Sorry about that. It'll definitely be worth it though. If you want, you can look for things such as the GPU or CPU on Ebay. You can usually find great deals on there. Just make sure it comes with all the original packaging and accessories, especially the CPU since you'll need the stock cooler.