Help Please - Powerful Tower for Gaming, Cooling, & Programming ($2,500-$3,000 Max)

[piggiesgosqueal]

Hello everyone! I'm completely new to building a computer and I've looked at some suggested builds but they're all for purposes I won't be using it for so I decided to ask the community. Please keep in mind, I am completely new to this so I may not understand some of the terms you may say.

I am currently using this tutorial: https://lifehacker.com/5828747/how-to-build-a-computer-from-scratch-the-complete-guide while I look for computer parts.

What I Want:
- A Full Sized Case with good air flow. Preferably no lights as I'd like to run my computer overnight. However, lights are acceptable.
- A quiet but efficient cooling system. I'll be in a college dorm and I'd like to run my computer quite a bit without annoying my roommate.
- To smoothly run Minecraft (on big servers with high settings) and 3D Games, in addition to, general web use, homework, and lastly running and compiling code.
- The ability to have dual monitors. I only need one for gaming but it would be useful to have two while working on my Minecraft server, in addition to, programming and compiling code. This is not a requirement but is preferred.
- I will not be overclocking because I want the parts to last as long as possible
- DVD drive just in case I need it for installing drivers, backup discs, etc.

Maximum Budget: $2,500 USD - $3,000 USD

Please Note:
- I have not done measurements or anything like that yet. Thus I'm not sure if these would work together. I am just getting together a general idea of what I want because I am having trouble figuring out how to get it to all work together.
- Feel free to suggest other parts I haven't listed and explain why. You know much better than me probably!


Parts So Far:
- 1 TB of NvMe SSD Storage (I did some research and this looks like it is fast and would work? https://tinyurl.com/ycxuak7k) If not, maybe this one: https://tinyurl.com/y8vye8s9
- Intel i7-7800K CPU (Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/yajn7lmt)
- Cases I've looked at so far:
1.) https://tinyurl.com/yby4cpwe (lights but looks like it has good airflow)
2.) https://tinyurl.com/ycrsf7zo (no lights, looks like it has nice spacious interior)
3.) https://tinyurl.com/yb2raa43 (no lights, easy access panel, not sure how good air flow is..)
- Motherboards (Trying to find one with as many features as possible in case I want to expand later & good reviews):
1.) ASRock Z370 Extreme4 LGA 1151 (300 Series) Intel Z370 (https://tinyurl.com/yckv8pzh)
2.) ASUS ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING LGA1151 (https://tinyurl.com/y73pmrfw)
- 16 GB DDR4 RAM (Not sure which brand or speed would be best)
* Probably would do 8 GB x 2 sticks because it's faster than 1 stick but doesn't make as much heat as 4 would.

I spent all day trying to figure this out and this is what I came up with so far. I realize it's not great (because I didn't measure everything to make sure it fits in the case and stuff like that) but that's because I'm new to this and am having a lot of trouble understanding how to get it to all fit together. Also, I am trying to avoid bottlenecks, of course but I'm not sure if I did.

I'd greatly appreciate some suggestions, tips, and information about the parts I chose, whether they work, whether you have better suggestions, etc.

Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to read and respond to this!

 

[Lucky_SLS]

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: AMD - Ryzen 7 2700X 3.7GHz 8-Core Processor ($306.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: be quiet! - Dark Rock Pro 4 50.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($84.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: ASRock - X470 Taichi Ultimate ATX AM4 Motherboard ($269.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill - Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($159.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Pro 1.0TB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($497.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Seagate - Constellation ES 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($58.90 @ Newegg Marketplace)
Video Card: MSI - GeForce GTX 1070 Ti 8GB Titanium Video Card ($479.99 @ B&H)
Case: Fractal Design - Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: SeaSonic - PRIME Ultra Gold 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ B&H)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Pro OEM 64-bit ($129.89 @ OutletPC)
Total: $2168.71
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-01 06:30 EDT-0400

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: AMD - Ryzen 7 2700X 3.7GHz 8-Core Processor ($306.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: be quiet! - Dark Rock Pro 4 50.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($84.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: ASRock - X470 Taichi Ultimate ATX AM4 Motherboard ($269.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill - Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($159.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Pro 1.0TB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($497.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Seagate - Constellation ES 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($58.90 @ Newegg Marketplace)
Video Card: MSI - GeForce GTX 1070 Ti 8GB Titanium Video Card ($479.99 @ B&H)
Case: Fractal Design - Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: SeaSonic - PRIME Ultra Gold 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ B&H)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Pro OEM 64-bit ($129.89 @ OutletPC)
Total: $2168.71
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-01 06:30 EDT-0400

Thank you for your reply.

Before I checked this post for responses, I spent today looking more into what would be good for me and came up with the following build. What do you think of this setup? Would it work well? Is there anything I'm missing (such as fans, a wifi card, incompatibilities, paste, power supply (idk which to choose b/c idk if I need to add more fans etc)) or any bottlenecks?
Link: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/RRF7RJ

As for your setup, I didn't originally go with an AMD because I've read the i7-8700K performs better overall. What made you decide to choose the Ryzen 7 2700X? Also, I was hoping to get a GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11 GB Graphics card because it'd ensure any of the latest 3D games would run smoothly. Would I be able to run this graphics card with my setup above or would there be a bottleneck?

Thank you.

 

[ArchitSahu]

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: AMD - Ryzen 7 2700X 3.7GHz 8-Core Processor ($306.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: be quiet! - Dark Rock Pro 4 50.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($84.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: ASRock - X470 Taichi Ultimate ATX AM4 Motherboard ($269.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill - Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($159.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Pro 1.0TB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($497.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Seagate - Constellation ES 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($58.90 @ Newegg Marketplace)
Video Card: MSI - GeForce GTX 1070 Ti 8GB Titanium Video Card ($479.99 @ B&H)
Case: Fractal Design - Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: SeaSonic - PRIME Ultra Gold 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ B&H)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Pro OEM 64-bit ($129.89 @ OutletPC)
Total: $2168.71
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-01 06:30 EDT-0400

Thank you for your reply.

Before I checked this post for responses, I spent today looking more into what would be good for me and came up with the following build. What do you think of this setup? Would it work well? Is there anything I'm missing (such as fans, a wifi card, incompatibilities, paste, power supply (idk which to choose b/c idk if I need to add more fans etc)) or any bottlenecks?
Link: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/RRF7RJ

As for your setup, I didn't originally go with an AMD because I've read the i7-8700K performs better overall. What made you decide to choose the Ryzen 7 2700X? Also, I was hoping to get a GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11 GB Graphics card because it'd ensure any of the latest 3D games would run smoothly. Would I be able to run this graphics card with my setup above or would there be a bottleneck?

Thank you.

That is a good build. Yes you can run that GPU.

Consider Ryzen, it will be helpful for servers etc. Also, you might want to wait till July end or so as there is a GPU release soon.

More RAM will also be more beneficial for Servers.

Do you need peripherals (monitors etc) and OS in the budget?

Here:
Intel -
PCPartPicker part list: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/cpML9J
Price breakdown by merchant: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/cpML9J/by_merchant/

CPU: Intel - Core i7-8700K 3.7GHz 6-Core Processor ($347.00 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Noctua - NH-D15 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($86.20 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock - Z370 Extreme4 ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($144.89 @ OutletPC)
Memory: G.Skill - Aegis 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($324.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Evo 500GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($197.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Samsung - 860 Evo 1TB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($267.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Zotac - GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB AMP Edition Video Card ($784.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Phanteks - Enthoo Pro M Tempered Glass (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: EVGA - SuperNOVA G3 750W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ Amazon)
Optical Drive: Asus - DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($18.19 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit ($95.89 @ OutletPC)
Sound Card: Asus - STRIX SOAR 24-bit 192 KHz Sound Card ($92.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Total: $2521.09
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-02 01:22 EDT-0400

Ryzen -
PCPartPicker part list: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/6bx4MZ
Price breakdown by merchant: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/6bx4MZ/by_merchant/

CPU: AMD - Ryzen 7 2700X 3.7GHz 8-Core Processor ($306.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Noctua - NH-D15 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($86.20 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: Asus - ROG STRIX X470-F Gaming ATX AM4 Motherboard ($206.34 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill - Aegis 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($324.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Evo 500GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($197.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Samsung - 860 Evo 1TB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($267.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Zotac - GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB AMP Edition Video Card ($784.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Phanteks - Enthoo Pro M Tempered Glass (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: EVGA - SuperNOVA G3 750W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ Amazon)
Optical Drive: Asus - DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($18.19 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit ($95.89 @ OutletPC)
Sound Card: Asus - STRIX SOAR 24-bit 192 KHz Sound Card ($92.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Total: $2542.53
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-02 01:21 EDT-0400

Both builds have a 1080Ti, OS, 32 gigs of RAM, 500 gb SSD and 1 TB SSD, quality PSUs, Dvd Drive, sound card and case with good build features.

 

[fredfinks]

Go with ArchitSahu's intel build.

but change the NH-D15 to the D15s version. (same performance, just asymmetrical for better ram and GPU clearance).
another case to consider is the fractal R6

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: AMD - Ryzen 7 2700X 3.7GHz 8-Core Processor ($306.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: be quiet! - Dark Rock Pro 4 50.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($84.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: ASRock - X470 Taichi Ultimate ATX AM4 Motherboard ($269.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill - Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($159.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Pro 1.0TB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($497.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Seagate - Constellation ES 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($58.90 @ Newegg Marketplace)
Video Card: MSI - GeForce GTX 1070 Ti 8GB Titanium Video Card ($479.99 @ B&H)
Case: Fractal Design - Define R5 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($99.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Power Supply: SeaSonic - PRIME Ultra Gold 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ B&H)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Pro OEM 64-bit ($129.89 @ OutletPC)
Total: $2168.71
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-01 06:30 EDT-0400

Thank you for your reply.

Before I checked this post for responses, I spent today looking more into what would be good for me and came up with the following build. What do you think of this setup? Would it work well? Is there anything I'm missing (such as fans, a wifi card, incompatibilities, paste, power supply (idk which to choose b/c idk if I need to add more fans etc)) or any bottlenecks?
Link: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/RRF7RJ

As for your setup, I didn't originally go with an AMD because I've read the i7-8700K performs better overall. What made you decide to choose the Ryzen 7 2700X? Also, I was hoping to get a GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11 GB Graphics card because it'd ensure any of the latest 3D games would run smoothly. Would I be able to run this graphics card with my setup above or would there be a bottleneck?

Thank you.

That is a good build. Yes you can run that GPU.

Consider Ryzen, it will be helpful for servers etc. Also, you might want to wait till July end or so as there is a GPU release soon.

More RAM will also be more beneficial for Servers.

Do you need peripherals (monitors etc) and OS in the budget?

Here:
Intel -
PCPartPicker part list: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/cpML9J
Price breakdown by merchant: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/cpML9J/by_merchant/

CPU: Intel - Core i7-8700K 3.7GHz 6-Core Processor ($347.00 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Noctua - NH-D15 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($86.20 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock - Z370 Extreme4 ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($144.89 @ OutletPC)
Memory: G.Skill - Aegis 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($324.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Evo 500GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($197.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Samsung - 860 Evo 1TB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($267.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Zotac - GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB AMP Edition Video Card ($784.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Phanteks - Enthoo Pro M Tempered Glass (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: EVGA - SuperNOVA G3 750W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ Amazon)
Optical Drive: Asus - DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($18.19 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit ($95.89 @ OutletPC)
Sound Card: Asus - STRIX SOAR 24-bit 192 KHz Sound Card ($92.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Total: $2521.09
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-02 01:22 EDT-0400

Ryzen -
PCPartPicker part list: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/6bx4MZ
Price breakdown by merchant: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/6bx4MZ/by_merchant/

CPU: AMD - Ryzen 7 2700X 3.7GHz 8-Core Processor ($306.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Noctua - NH-D15 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler ($86.20 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: Asus - ROG STRIX X470-F Gaming ATX AM4 Motherboard ($206.34 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill - Aegis 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3000 Memory ($324.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 970 Evo 500GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($197.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Samsung - 860 Evo 1TB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($267.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Zotac - GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB AMP Edition Video Card ($784.98 @ Newegg)
Case: Phanteks - Enthoo Pro M Tempered Glass (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: EVGA - SuperNOVA G3 750W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($79.99 @ Amazon)
Optical Drive: Asus - DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($18.19 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit ($95.89 @ OutletPC)
Sound Card: Asus - STRIX SOAR 24-bit 192 KHz Sound Card ($92.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Total: $2542.53
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-02 01:21 EDT-0400

Both builds have a 1080Ti, OS, 32 gigs of RAM, 500 gb SSD and 1 TB SSD, quality PSUs, Dvd Drive, sound card and case with good build features.

Oh apologies, I wasn't clear. I don't host the server. I pay for hosting. I just meant two monitors would help so I could have console on one then the server files on the other for example. Or with programming, I could have programming instructions, help, etc on one and the actual program I'm making on the other.

As for OS and monitors in the budget, I already have a windows 8 key and possibly a windows 10 key lying around somewhere. In addition, I have two monitors so I don't NEED monitors but I am open to getting better monitors as well as long as the total budget is less than $3,000. Same thing with keyboard and mouse. Currently I have a mammoth gaming mouse from MSI which works pretty well and is comfy. Only downside is I could use a lower DPI, rather than higher. But that's minor and thus not really important.

Thanks for creating those two builds. I'll probably use the intel version, https://pcpartpicker.com/list/cpML9J.

Lastly, does the type of thermal paste I use matter much? And are there any other things I'll need to build the pc? I know there's a wrist band to get to reduce static electricity but I'm not sure what else. I'm sure I'll need screwdrivers but not sure what sizes.

Thanks again!

EDIT: Oh, forgot to ask, does that intel build come with a wifi card? So I can use ethernet and wifi? Also, does it support dual monitors or no?

 

[fredfinks]

you get thermal paste with the noctua cooler. Its top stuff (again get the 's' version - nh-d15s)

Dont need wrist strap , just dont smother the circuitry with your fingers, hold mobo etc on the edges.

Philips screwdriver size 2 is the usual size. size 1 for tiny screws like m.2 riser.
Preferably magnetic tip.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

Go with ArchitSahu's intel build.

but change the NH-D15 to the D15s version. (same performance, just asymmetrical for better ram and GPU clearance).
another case to consider is the fractal R6

Thank you for your reply.

I looked it up and I'm not sure which you mean I should use:
Noctua - NH-D15 SE-AM4 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler (NH-D15 SE-AM4) $89.90 Amazon
Noctua - NH-D15S 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler (NH-D15S) $79.89 Newegg Business
Noctua - NH-D15 82.5 CFM CPU Cooler (NH-D15) $86.20 Newegg


EDIT: Nevermind I didn't see your most recent reply.

 

[fredfinks]

nh-d15s.

The AM4 is for AMD.
The original d15 is same as the d15s but its symmetrical and has less RAM and GPU clearance
All same performance.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

you get thermal paste with the noctua cooler. Its top stuff (again get the 's' version - nh-d15s)

Dont need wrist strap , just dont smother the circuitry with your fingers, hold mobo etc on the edges.

Philips screwdriver size 2 is the usual size. size 1 for tiny screws like m.2 riser.
Preferably magnetic tip.

Thanks!

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

So this is my revised setup. Please let me know if you think this is good or could be improved for my purposes: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/D6H6D2

I changed the RAM from 32 GB to 16 (2x8GB) because as I mentioned before I will not be running the actual server on my computer. Also, I changed to DDR4 3200 RAM because the motherboard says it doesn't support DDR4 3000 (Memory Type DDR4-2133 / 2400 / 2666 / 2800 / 2933 / 3200 / 3600 / 3733 / 3800 / 3866 / 4000 / 4333)

Will I have plenty of cooling if I were to run the latest games at their highest settings?
Also, how is the monitor and does the motherboard come with a wifi chip & wired ethernet connection built in or is it required to buy separately?

PCPartPicker says this:
Compatibility Notes
The motherboard M.2 slot #1 shares bandwidth with SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports. When the M.2 slot is populated, two SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports are disabled.
The motherboard M.2 slot #2 shares bandwidth with SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports. When the M.2 slot is populated, two SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports are disabled.

^ Not really sure what that means so does that effect me?

Edit: Changing the Monitor. Will update soon.

Edit 2: Updated monitor.

Edit 3: Added Cougar - Turbine 120 (4-Pack) 60.4 CFM 120mm Fan

Max Budget: $3,000
Total Price: $2804.21

 

[g-unit1111]

So this is my revised setup. Please let me know if you think this is good or could be improved for my purposes: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/D6H6D2

I changed the RAM from 32 GB to 16 (2x8GB) because as I mentioned before I will not be running the actual server on my computer. Also, I changed to DDR4 3200 RAM because the motherboard says it doesn't support DDR4 3000 (Memory Type DDR4-2133 / 2400 / 2666 / 2800 / 2933 / 3200 / 3600 / 3733 / 3800 / 3866 / 4000 / 4333)

Will I have plenty of cooling if I were to run the latest games at their highest settings?
Also, how is the monitor and does the motherboard come with a wifi chip & wired ethernet connection built in or is it required to buy separately?

PCPartPicker says this:
Compatibility Notes
The motherboard M.2 slot #1 shares bandwidth with SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports. When the M.2 slot is populated, two SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports are disabled.
The motherboard M.2 slot #2 shares bandwidth with SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports. When the M.2 slot is populated, two SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports are disabled.

^ Not really sure what that means so does that effect me?

Edit: Changing the Monitor. Will update soon.

Edit 2: Updated monitor.

Edit 3: Added Cougar - Turbine 120 (4-Pack) 60.4 CFM 120mm Fan

Max Budget: $3,000
Total Price: $2804.21

You're wasting money on the static wrist strap and the tool kit - these things are not necessary at all. All you really need is a philips head screwdriver, maybe a smaller one for M2 drives, and that's about it. You could also get way better case fans - the Corsair LL fans and the NZXT Aer fans are much better. That thing about the motherboard and RAM is incorrect - if a motherboard supports DDR4-3200, it will support DDR4-3000.

This would be a far better setup IMO:

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel - Core i7-8700K 3.7GHz 6-Core Processor ($347.00 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Corsair - H115i PRO 55.4 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler ($139.99 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: ASRock - Z370 Extreme4 ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($144.89 @ OutletPC)
Memory: G.Skill - Trident Z RGB 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200 Memory ($217.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 960 EVO 250GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($114.94 @ Newegg Marketplace)
Storage: Western Digital - Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($43.90 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: EVGA - GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB SC Black Edition Video Card ($829.99 @ Amazon)
Case: Phanteks - Enthoo Pro M Tempered Glass (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: SeaSonic - PRIME Ultra Titanium 750W 80+ Titanium Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($139.16 @ B&H)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit ($95.89 @ OutletPC)
Case Fan: NZXT - Aer RGB140 (3-pack) 71.6 CFM 140mm Fans ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)
Total: $2236.02
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-02 20:31 EDT-0400

Then you can add whatever monitor, keyboard and mouse you want.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

So this is my revised setup. Please let me know if you think this is good or could be improved for my purposes: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/D6H6D2

I changed the RAM from 32 GB to 16 (2x8GB) because as I mentioned before I will not be running the actual server on my computer. Also, I changed to DDR4 3200 RAM because the motherboard says it doesn't support DDR4 3000 (Memory Type DDR4-2133 / 2400 / 2666 / 2800 / 2933 / 3200 / 3600 / 3733 / 3800 / 3866 / 4000 / 4333)

Will I have plenty of cooling if I were to run the latest games at their highest settings?
Also, how is the monitor and does the motherboard come with a wifi chip & wired ethernet connection built in or is it required to buy separately?

PCPartPicker says this:
Compatibility Notes
The motherboard M.2 slot #1 shares bandwidth with SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports. When the M.2 slot is populated, two SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports are disabled.
The motherboard M.2 slot #2 shares bandwidth with SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports. When the M.2 slot is populated, two SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports are disabled.

^ Not really sure what that means so does that effect me?

Edit: Changing the Monitor. Will update soon.

Edit 2: Updated monitor.

Edit 3: Added Cougar - Turbine 120 (4-Pack) 60.4 CFM 120mm Fan

Max Budget: $3,000
Total Price: $2804.21

You're wasting money on the static wrist strap and the tool kit - these things are not necessary at all. All you really need is a philips head screwdriver, maybe a smaller one for M2 drives, and that's about it. You could also get way better case fans - the Corsair LL fans and the NZXT Aer fans are much better. That thing about the motherboard and RAM is incorrect - if a motherboard supports DDR4-3200, it will support DDR4-3000.

This would be a far better setup IMO:

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel - Core i7-8700K 3.7GHz 6-Core Processor ($347.00 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Corsair - H115i PRO 55.4 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler ($139.99 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: ASRock - Z370 Extreme4 ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($144.89 @ OutletPC)
Memory: G.Skill - Trident Z RGB 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200 Memory ($217.98 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung - 960 EVO 250GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive ($114.94 @ Newegg Marketplace)
Storage: Western Digital - Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($43.90 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: EVGA - GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB SC Black Edition Video Card ($829.99 @ Amazon)
Case: Phanteks - Enthoo Pro M Tempered Glass (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: SeaSonic - PRIME Ultra Titanium 750W 80+ Titanium Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply ($139.16 @ B&H)
Operating System: Microsoft - Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit ($95.89 @ OutletPC)
Case Fan: NZXT - Aer RGB140 (3-pack) 71.6 CFM 140mm Fans ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)
Total: $2236.02
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-06-02 20:31 EDT-0400

Then you can add whatever monitor, keyboard and mouse you want.

Thank you for your reply and clearing up my misunderstanding about the RAM.

One question, why did you choose:
Case Fan: NZXT - Aer RGB140 (3-pack) 71.6 CFM 140mm Fans ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)
Over the:
Case Fan: Cougar - Turbine 120 (4-Pack) 60.4 CFM 120mm Fan ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)

I chose the Cougar fan because it provides a higher RPM (1200 RPM) and Air Flow (60.4 CFM) with a lower noise level (17.7 dbA).

Being in a college dorm with a roommate, a quieter computer is preferable. However, I'd like to keep the computer cool too and I know generally the better cooling system = the louder it is. Also, I plan to run it overnight if possible so less light/sound coming from the pc, the better.

As for your comment about not needing the wristband, 2/2 of my friends that have built a computer, have fried their motherboard. I know you may think that's hard to do, but because I'm completely new to this, I'd much rather be safe with an added $6 expense than take a risk with a motherboard over $100.

I added the screwdriver set because I couldn't find Phillips #1 & #2 head magnetic screwdrivers. Well, I could find one but it had poor ratings. That screwdriver set provided what I needed and had good ratings along with having amazon prime which helps prevent being scammed (I've been scammed a lot on Amazon & elsewhere over the years). Hence why I chose it.

Thanks again,
PiggiesGoSqueal

 

[g-unit1111]

Thank you for your reply and clearing up my misunderstanding about the RAM.

One question, why did you choose:
Case Fan: NZXT - Aer RGB140 (3-pack) 71.6 CFM 140mm Fans ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)
Over the:
Case Fan: Cougar - Turbine 120 (4-Pack) 60.4 CFM 120mm Fan ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)

I chose the Cougar fan because it provides a higher RPM (1200 RPM) and Air Flow (60.4 CFM) with a lower noise level (17.7 dbA).

I think you're overthinking the air flow here. A fan that has 1200RPM isn't going to provide any additional air flow over a fan that has 1000 RPM. Going from 0.00 to 0.01 in the long run isn't going to make much of a difference at all. The Cougar fans are decent but there's better fans you can get.

Being in a college dorm with a roommate, a quieter computer is preferable. However, I'd like to keep the computer cool too and I know generally the better cooling system = the louder it is. Also, I plan to run it overnight if possible so less light/sound coming from the pc, the better.

Don't run your PC overnight. Turn it off when you're not using it. Running your PC overnight will wear down the PSU more than turning it off and turning it on will.

As for your comment about not needing the wristband, 2/2 of my friends that have built a computer, have fried their motherboard. I know you may think that's hard to do, but because I'm completely new to this, I'd much rather be safe with an added $6 expense than take a risk with a motherboard over $100.

That's on them then. I've built and rebuilt plenty of PCs without ever needing a wrist strap. You only need a wrist strap when you're working with live (powered on) equipment. For the most part you will be building your PC into the case powered off which will eliminate the need for a wrist strap. Also before building thoroughly clean the area where you're going to be building. Dirt and dust are huge factors in the cause of static shocks, so eliminating them is a good precaution.

I added the screwdriver set because I couldn't find Phillips #1 & #2 head magnetic screwdrivers. Well, I could find one but it had poor ratings. That screwdriver set provided what I needed and had good ratings along with having amazon prime which helps prevent being scammed (I've been scammed a lot on Amazon & elsewhere over the years). Hence why I chose it.

I wouldn't pay much attention to the Amazon ratings. This is one of those things you most likely don't need - pretty much every household has a Philips head screwdriver or two. You can also go to a Home Depot and buy a set for $10 if you don't have them. That's not something I would include in a PC budget.

 

[fredfinks]

Piggie, i concur with g-unit.
You dont need a wrist strap. Dont go licking the motherboard for a cheap college high or smothering the circuitry with your fingers. Hold the motherboard on the edges for example.

not sure what your friends did but seeing some returns at a store i worked for youd be surprised at how many people do bizarre things. Thermal paste applied between pins and CPU, pins bent out of shape like a modern art project etc.

Just dont be silly, have some finesse, and you'll be a-ok. Ive built hundreds. no bondage gear necessary.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

Thank you for your reply and clearing up my misunderstanding about the RAM.

One question, why did you choose:
Case Fan: NZXT - Aer RGB140 (3-pack) 71.6 CFM 140mm Fans ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)
Over the:
Case Fan: Cougar - Turbine 120 (4-Pack) 60.4 CFM 120mm Fan ($82.29 @ SuperBiiz)

I chose the Cougar fan because it provides a higher RPM (1200 RPM) and Air Flow (60.4 CFM) with a lower noise level (17.7 dbA).

I think you're overthinking the air flow here. A fan that has 1200RPM isn't going to provide any additional air flow over a fan that has 1000 RPM. Going from 0.00 to 0.01 in the long run isn't going to make much of a difference at all. The Cougar fans are decent but there's better fans you can get.

Being in a college dorm with a roommate, a quieter computer is preferable. However, I'd like to keep the computer cool too and I know generally the better cooling system = the louder it is. Also, I plan to run it overnight if possible so less light/sound coming from the pc, the better.

Don't run your PC overnight. Turn it off when you're not using it. Running your PC overnight will wear down the PSU more than turning it off and turning it on will.

As for your comment about not needing the wristband, 2/2 of my friends that have built a computer, have fried their motherboard. I know you may think that's hard to do, but because I'm completely new to this, I'd much rather be safe with an added $6 expense than take a risk with a motherboard over $100.

That's on them then. I've built and rebuilt plenty of PCs without ever needing a wrist strap. You only need a wrist strap when you're working with live (powered on) equipment. For the most part you will be building your PC into the case powered off which will eliminate the need for a wrist strap. Also before building thoroughly clean the area where you're going to be building. Dirt and dust are huge factors in the cause of static shocks, so eliminating them is a good precaution.

I added the screwdriver set because I couldn't find Phillips #1 & #2 head magnetic screwdrivers. Well, I could find one but it had poor ratings. That screwdriver set provided what I needed and had good ratings along with having amazon prime which helps prevent being scammed (I've been scammed a lot on Amazon & elsewhere over the years). Hence why I chose it.

I wouldn't pay much attention to the Amazon ratings. This is one of those things you most likely don't need - pretty much every household has a Philips head screwdriver or two. You can also go to a Home Depot and buy a set for $10 if you don't have them. That's not something I would include in a PC budget.

My apologies for the incredibly late response. I'm currently in the process of moving from Colorado to California and have been/am quite busy with unpacking stuff. For that reason, I also don't have the screwdrivers required and I checked Home Depot but there were no magnetic ones. Oh well, normal should work fine too. Anyways, good to know for everything you said. Thank you for your reply, your input has been very helpful. I'll update my setup and purchase the parts.

 

[fredfinks]

Im surprised you couldnt find magnetic tip screwdriver at a home depot. Im not in US but here in our hardware stores theres a few to choose from.
Ask staff. Theres even a magnetic block for sale that you put a regular screwdriver through to magnetize it.

Magnetic screwdrivers aren't necessary but make life quite a lot easier when building pcs. Again, its Philips head size 2 for 95% of things and size 2 for the rest.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

Piggie, i concur with g-unit.
You dont need a wrist strap. Dont go licking the motherboard for a cheap college high or smothering the circuitry with your fingers. Hold the motherboard on the edges for example.

not sure what your friends did but seeing some returns at a store i worked for youd be surprised at how many people do bizarre things. Thermal paste applied between pins and CPU, pins bent out of shape like a modern art project etc.

Just dont be silly, have some finesse, and you'll be a-ok. Ive built hundreds. no bondage gear necessary.

Haha, okay thanks.

As for my friends and bizarre stuff people do, I think it really just depends on perspective. For example, when I first learned how to setup a Minecraft Server using a host, it was incredibly complicated to me and took me over a month to learn permission plugins etc. Now that I know how, it stuns me how long it took to understand and how such a "basic" thing (with my current knowledge) could be so difficult for me to learn. In this case, building computers may seem easy to people with experience and basic knowledge about it. But for some people, it's like learning a foreign language and for those people they just need to learn the basics before they can fully understand it. I don't know, that's the best way I can think to describe it.

As I told g-unit, apologies for the very late reply. I'm currently in the process of moving and have been/am incredibly busy.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

Im surprised you couldnt find magnetic tip screwdriver at a home depot. Im not in US but here in our hardware stores theres a few to choose from.
Ask staff. Theres even a magnetic block for sale that you put a regular screwdriver through to magnetize it.

Magnetic screwdrivers aren't necessary but make life quite a lot easier when building pcs. Again, its Philips head size 2 for 95% of things and size 2 for the rest.

Jeez, that block sounds awesome haha. Yeah, I'll consider checking it out again. I checked the tools aisle and didn't see anything though. There were some with black tips but they didn't say magnetic on them.

 

[fredfinks]

grab one and see if its sticks to another screwdriver's shaft. ask staff. You dont need to spend heaps.
That block is like $9 here, screwdrivers bout $10 each, stuff is cheaper in US.
recommended shaft length 15- 20cm.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

grab one and see if its sticks to another screwdriver's shaft. ask staff. You dont need to spend heaps.
That block is like $9 here, screwdrivers bout $10 each, stuff is cheaper in US.
recommended shaft length 15- 20cm.

Ah okay, I would've thought shorter shaft = better because I'll be working in the case with limited room. Also, the screwdrivers were in plastic at the store so there is no way to tell whether they are magnetic until after buying them, unless you meant after I buy them. And I do live in US but there was no block, at least where I looked.

I don't have a car and my dad is leaving to go back to Colorado tomorrow so I may go to Home Depot again but it'll have to wait.

Thanks for the information! Really appreciate it.

 

[piggiesgosqueal]

One final thing (I think). I asked this repeatedly earlier but no one seems to have replied. Sorry if this is common sense to you, but it isn't to me and I'd just like to make sure. Does this (https://pcpartpicker.com/product/QNX2FT/asrock-z370-extreme4-atx-lga1151-motherboard-z370-extreme4) motherboard come with the ability to use wired internet AND wireless internet? If not, what parts would I need to make those two work? And do you have any suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[fredfinks]

No. If you need wifi, get a mobo that has wifi onboard out of the box.
Asus z370-E. I only recommend asus boards. Unfortunately this mobo costs a bit more for a silly ROG badge but its the cheapest asus z370 with wifi.

 

[ArchitSahu]

One final thing (I think). I asked this repeatedly earlier but no one seems to have replied. Sorry if this is common sense to you, but it isn't to me and I'd just like to make sure. Does this (https://pcpartpicker.com/product/QNX2FT/asrock-z370-extreme4-atx-lga1151-motherboard-z370-extreme4) motherboard come with the ability to use wired internet AND wireless internet? If not, what parts would I need to make those two work? And do you have any suggestions?

Thanks!

AFAIK that motherboard only has the ability for a wired connection. You can get a wireless adapter to plug into the motherboard for Wireless capabilities.

 

[fredfinks]

Prob with add in cards they seem to be so hit & miss.
Ive never understood why a phone or laptop onboard wifi works so well compared to PCI or usb dongle wifi. Regardless of brand (and including those with external antennas).
If its onboard, it just seems to work