Intel vs AMC build to order - which system would you recommend for a descent no games, home PC?

[charles_i]

I need the expert advise of you guys because I haven't bought a new PC in 10 years (or more). One of our local suppliers has this 'build your own' selection page - great idea because I'd rather go this route than buy a pre-built Acer again - not too pleased with the one I have had for 10 years. I have my own Win 7 software (preferable to 8) and a second SATA hard drive so I just need the basics - nice box, a descent motherboard with enough memory to run several programs at once (eg. Photoshop, Bridge, text, browser, maybe Lightroom), a reasonable power supply, a burner - and that's about it. I can add my own sound card.

I'm not a gamer nor do I use 3D graphics so help with choice of video card would be great.

http://www.canadacomputers.com/system_config/system_category.php?page=home

Thanks!
Charles

 

[g-unit1111]

Depends on what your overall budget is. AMD tends to favor budgets less than $1200, Intel tends to favor much higher end rigs. You don't need a sound card anymore so you don't have to worry about that.

 

[charles_i]

My budget is cheap - since these are home solutions - along the lines of the "build it" on the site - under $500. I do need a Sound Card to get Record What You Hear since Microsoft has given in to the copyright hounds and made sure this is no longer available unless you buy a higher end card. Thanks for the advice about Intel though. I have usually gone with AMD in the past.

 

[logainofhades]

I think you should literally build your own.
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD A10-6790K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor ($137.99 @ NCIX)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper TX3 54.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.49 @ DirectCanada)
Motherboard: MSI A88X-G43 ATX FM2+ Motherboard ($89.99 @ NCIX)
Memory: Kingston Fury Black Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1866 Memory ($83.78 @ DirectCanada)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.99 @ Canada Computers)
Case: Thermaltake Versa H22 ATX Mid Tower Case ($43.75 @ DirectCanada)
Power Supply: Corsair Builder 430W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($59.98 @ Newegg Canada)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($16.79 @ DirectCanada)
Total: $511.76
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-05-13 10:35 EDT-0400)

 

[charles_i]

Great thanks! The problem with building my own is not knowing anything about compatibility. But if you are a CPUs Master this looks like good advice. I've always had someone build my PCs to my specs in the past - except for the last Acer purchase which I regret - worst PC I've ever had.

I've done quite a bit of adons over the years but never installed a Motherboard. Is there anything particularly tricky about it? I presume if it fits the case properly I shouldn't have to worry about breaking it to get it in.

 

[logainofhades]

Nothing tricky at all. Just take your time and make sure to read the manuals.

 

[charles_i]

OK thanks. I'll give it a try. Not too thrilled about having to attach the processor although I have done it once before. I still have some heat sink left. I'll let you know how it goes.

 

[charles_i]

I have a followup question about a USB port/hub. I presume this is an add on as well. And with external hard drives I'd like 4 available USB 3.0 ports on the front of the case. The case you recommended has only one 3.0 port - is there one with 3 or 4? What do you recommend for internal USB 3.0 hardware? How do you connect it to the motherboard?

 

[jaguarskx]

Based on the type of software you want to run, I recommend Intel CPUs vs AMD APUs or CPUs. You will get higher performance, but you also spend a little more money. However, higher performance also means you are likely to upgrade later rather than soon. Therefore, spending more now can save you money and time (since you can postpone looking again). However, if "cheap as possible" is a high priority, then just go with AMD since you will still get a boost in performance compared to your current PC, and AMD have good overall price / performance balance.

 

[charles_i]

Hmm, I don't mind a little bit more. What about my USB question? Is the internal USB port separate from the CPU/motherboard?