Newegg Supercombo for 1st Time Builder/Gaming PC

[timaeustestified]

So I've been reading up around the forums (and the web) a lot lately, because I am in dire need of a new gaming computer and, based on what I've seen, building one myself is the route to go in terms of budget, quality, and overall satisfaction with the product. Having a 6 year old Macbook is sort of killing me, because I can't even play Minecraft without FPS issues, so I really need to catch up on the times. I've watched a couple videos on how to build a computer and I have a few friends who have built their own who would be willing to help me. Ideally, I want to be able to play games like LoL, Diablo 3, Starcraft 2, Minecraft, Steam stuff, and maybe even Skyrim at high to ultra quality. I'm not overly concerned with overclocking

My roadblock has been selecting parts and budget concerns, so I made an account and here I am.

I'm very weird when it comes to shopping for parts, in that I would much rather them come all at the same time (or relatively around the same period of time) and in quick fashion. I also get nervous about "will this part be compatible with this part?" and "is this the best bang for my buck?" Obviously probably not too much of an issue for an experience builder, but for me these are much bigger thoughts to address. This has led me to Newegg's Supercombo Flagship series as a possible route.

My budget is roughly $950, give or take, and it includes having to buy an OS, Monitor, and Keyboard. Ideally I would like to go under-budget if at all possible, which is why I've been eyeing up the Meridan Class of Flagships. In particular, the 2 AMD builds and one of the Intel builds, which I'll post here:

AMD #1
Case: NZXT Guardian 921 RB 921RB-001-RD Black SECC steel chassis Computer Case @$69.99
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-990FXA-UD3 AM3+ AMD 990FX SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX AMD Motherboard @$133.99
GPU: SAPPHIRE 100356OCL Radeon HD 7790 OC 1GB DDR5 PCI-Express Video Card @$129.99
PSU: Rosewill Stallion Series RD700 700W ATX12V V2.3 SLI Ready CrossFire Ready Power Supply @$64.99
CPU: AMD FX-8350 Vishera 4.0GHz (4.2GHz Turbo) Socket AM3+ 125W Eight-Core Desktop Processor FD8350FRHKBOX @ $199.99
Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBXL @$69.99
Storage: Seagate Barracuda ST1000DM003 1TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive @ $69.99
Optical Drive: SAMSUNG DVD Burner SATA Model SH-224DB/BEBE @ $19.99

AMD #2
Case: APEVIA X-CRUISER3 X-CRUISER3-RD Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case w/ Side Window-Red @ $69.99
Motherboard: ASRock 970 EXTREME4 AM3+ AMD 970 SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX AMD Motherboard with UEFI BIOS @ $99.99
GPU: XFX CORE Edition FX-777A-ZNF4 Radeon HD 7770 GHz Edition 1GB 128-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 3.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFireX Support Video Card @ $124.99
PSU: Rosewill Stallion Series RD600 600W ATX12V V2.3 SLI Ready CrossFire Ready Power Supply @ $54.99
CPU: AMD FX-8350 Vishera 4.0GHz (4.2GHz Turbo) Socket AM3+ 125W Eight-Core Desktop Processor FD8350FRHKBOX @ $199.99
Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBXL @ $69.99
Storage: Seagate Barracuda ST1000DM003 1TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive @ 69.99
Optical Drive: SAMSUNG DVD Burner SATA Model SH-224DB/BEBE @ $19.99

Intel
Case: XION Gaming Series XON-985-BK Black with BLUE LED Light Steel/ Plastic, Meshed Front Panel design. ATX Mid Tower Computer Case @ $79.99
Motherboard: ASRock Z87 PRO3 LGA 1150 Intel Z87 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard @ $114.99
GPU: EVGA 02G-P4-3658-KR GeForce GTX 650 Ti BOOST SuperClocked 2GB 192-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 3.0 SLI Support Video Card @ $179.99
PSU: CORSAIR GS600 600W ATX12V v2.3 SLI Ready CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Active PFC Power Supply New 4th Gen CPU Certified Haswell Ready @ $89.99
CPU: Intel Core i5-4670K Haswell 3.4GHz LGA 1150 84W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics BX80646I54670K @ $239.99
Memory: G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 2133 (PC3 17000) Desktop Memory Model F3-2133C10D-8GXM @ $69.99
Storage: Seagate Barracuda ST1000DM003 1TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive @ $69.99
Optical Drive: SAMSUNG DVD Burner SATA Model SH-224DB/BEBE @ $19.99

However, two concerns have come up
1. I've seen a lot of people suggest Intel over AMD for more serious gaming. The two AMD choices don't look too bad (with a novice read-through of the parts) but would I be shooting myself in the foot should I choose to upgrade in the future?
2. Cooling, because I've read a lot of horror stories. Sufficient cooling in the case and for the necessary parts.

If it'd be easier to use the pre-established new build form, I'd be glad to fill it out, however initial judgment suggested to explain the situation since I have builds in mind.

Thank you for your time and (hopefully) advice in advance!

 

[Heironious]

Those AMD CPU's need cooling other than stock. Get at least a Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo or Plus (EVO is slightly better). And yes, this day and age, Intel does beat AMD, but of course you pay more.

 

[bigshootr8]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

 

[timaeustestified]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

 

[cjkupers]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

As a personal owner of an XFX Radeon HD 7770 Ghz Edition, I can assure you.. the GPUs these people are suggesting are not overkill. the 650Ti and 7770 you have in 2/3 of your builds are lackluster pieces in builds that outshine them.

From what I see, you have done very good research in your builds, and you pick very good, very solid an reputable parts... Except your GPU

Although you may feel like these builds are going to cramp your budget, you have to realize that's what its calling for when you decide you want these higher-end parts. It's a circle of requirements. A good CPU needs good RAM.. and to utilize them to their best for gaming.. you'll need a good GPU. and so on.

This is really the main crux between buying a desktop and laptop these days. You can dream up the right build, but when it comes down to having to throw down some cash for the keys, mice, and screen, suddenly its no longer a joyful thing to be ogling over your new build draft : )

The parts these other thread contributors are suggesting are pretty spot on. Take them into consideration and maybe figure out if saving a little more moolah to fit the bill might help out your cause.

I kind of regretted on budgeting on my GPU back when I got my 7770. Although its dubbed the best bang for the buck, its not as well as a performer as you need these days with the games on the market.

 

[bigshootr8]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

As a personal owner of an XFX Radeon HD 7770 Ghz Edition, I can assure you.. the GPUs these people are suggesting are not overkill. the 650Ti and 7770 you have in 2/3 of your builds are lackluster pieces in builds that outshine them.

From what I see, you have done very good research in your builds, and you pick very good, very solid an reputable parts... Except your GPU

Although you may feel like these builds are going to cramp your budget, you have to realize that's what its calling for when you decide you want these higher-end parts. It's a circle of requirements. A good CPU needs good RAM.. and to utilize them to their best for gaming.. you'll need a good GPU. and so on.

This is really the main crux between buying a desktop and laptop these days. You can dream up the right build, but when it comes down to having to throw down some cash for the keys, mice, and screen, suddenly its no longer a joyful thing to be ogling over your new build draft : )

The parts these other thread contributors are suggesting are pretty spot on. Take them into consideration and maybe figure out if saving a little more moolah to fit the bill might help out your cause.

I kind of regretted on budgeting on my GPU back when I got my 7770. Although its dubbed the best bang for the buck, its not as well as a performer as you need these days with the games on the market.

You do realize that is A nvidia GTX760 right? Its pretty much a slower version of the GTX670..... I wasn't suggest a 7770 a lower range card or a media card in the GTX650Ti.

 

[cjkupers]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

As a personal owner of an XFX Radeon HD 7770 Ghz Edition, I can assure you.. the GPUs these people are suggesting are not overkill. the 650Ti and 7770 you have in 2/3 of your builds are lackluster pieces in builds that outshine them.

From what I see, you have done very good research in your builds, and you pick very good, very solid an reputable parts... Except your GPU

Although you may feel like these builds are going to cramp your budget, you have to realize that's what its calling for when you decide you want these higher-end parts. It's a circle of requirements. A good CPU needs good RAM.. and to utilize them to their best for gaming.. you'll need a good GPU. and so on.

This is really the main crux between buying a desktop and laptop these days. You can dream up the right build, but when it comes down to having to throw down some cash for the keys, mice, and screen, suddenly its no longer a joyful thing to be ogling over your new build draft : )

The parts these other thread contributors are suggesting are pretty spot on. Take them into consideration and maybe figure out if saving a little more moolah to fit the bill might help out your cause.

I kind of regretted on budgeting on my GPU back when I got my 7770. Although its dubbed the best bang for the buck, its not as well as a performer as you need these days with the games on the market.

You do realize that is A nvidia GTX760 right? Its pretty much a slower version of the GTX670..... I wasn't suggest a 7770 a lower range card or a media card in the GTX650Ti.

I was directing my comments about his own drafted builds, and if you re-read my post, you'll understand that I was complimenting your suggestions. Read his first two builds, he lists a 7790 and a 7770. My opening statement was about those decisions and I explained why we're recommending higher grade cards rather than the ones he picked himself.

Also, http://gpuboss.com/gpus/GeForce-GTX-760-vs-GeForce-GTX-670

a 760 is a cheaper way of getting 670 performance, except you have a higher base clock speed, more efficient architecture, higher turbo, and less heat production. Its also very easy to software-overclock a 760 over and upwards to a 680's marks these days. So really, why would anyone waste the dollars on a 670?

If you thought I was picking at your suggestions, you were mistaken. I was highlighting the suggested changes you made to the OP's original post.

 

[timaeustestified]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

As a personal owner of an XFX Radeon HD 7770 Ghz Edition, I can assure you.. the GPUs these people are suggesting are not overkill. the 650Ti and 7770 you have in 2/3 of your builds are lackluster pieces in builds that outshine them.

From what I see, you have done very good research in your builds, and you pick very good, very solid an reputable parts... Except your GPU

Although you may feel like these builds are going to cramp your budget, you have to realize that's what its calling for when you decide you want these higher-end parts. It's a circle of requirements. A good CPU needs good RAM.. and to utilize them to their best for gaming.. you'll need a good GPU. and so on.

This is really the main crux between buying a desktop and laptop these days. You can dream up the right build, but when it comes down to having to throw down some cash for the keys, mice, and screen, suddenly its no longer a joyful thing to be ogling over your new build draft : )

The parts these other thread contributors are suggesting are pretty spot on. Take them into consideration and maybe figure out if saving a little more moolah to fit the bill might help out your cause.

I kind of regretted on budgeting on my GPU back when I got my 7770. Although its dubbed the best bang for the buck, its not as well as a performer as you need these days with the games on the market.

You do realize that is A nvidia GTX760 right? Its pretty much a slower version of the GTX670..... I wasn't suggest a 7770 a lower range card or a media card in the GTX650Ti.

@bigshootr8 Yes, I do realize that. However I'm working under a budget and I know there are some lower priced GPU options that can still perform pretty well, especially for my needs.

@cjkupers I do understand having to not skimp out on parts, but I am also operating on a budget and suggesting a build that leaves me no extra money to drop on a monitor when I specify in the original post that part of my budget includes having to buy one seems a little silly.

 

[bigshootr8]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

As a personal owner of an XFX Radeon HD 7770 Ghz Edition, I can assure you.. the GPUs these people are suggesting are not overkill. the 650Ti and 7770 you have in 2/3 of your builds are lackluster pieces in builds that outshine them.

From what I see, you have done very good research in your builds, and you pick very good, very solid an reputable parts... Except your GPU

Although you may feel like these builds are going to cramp your budget, you have to realize that's what its calling for when you decide you want these higher-end parts. It's a circle of requirements. A good CPU needs good RAM.. and to utilize them to their best for gaming.. you'll need a good GPU. and so on.

This is really the main crux between buying a desktop and laptop these days. You can dream up the right build, but when it comes down to having to throw down some cash for the keys, mice, and screen, suddenly its no longer a joyful thing to be ogling over your new build draft : )

The parts these other thread contributors are suggesting are pretty spot on. Take them into consideration and maybe figure out if saving a little more moolah to fit the bill might help out your cause.

I kind of regretted on budgeting on my GPU back when I got my 7770. Although its dubbed the best bang for the buck, its not as well as a performer as you need these days with the games on the market.

You do realize that is A nvidia GTX760 right? Its pretty much a slower version of the GTX670..... I wasn't suggest a 7770 a lower range card or a media card in the GTX650Ti.

@bigshootr8 Yes, I do realize that. However I'm working under a budget and I know there are some lower priced GPU options that can still perform pretty well, especially for my needs.

@cjkupers I do understand having to not skimp out on parts, but I am also operating on a budget and suggesting a build that leaves me no extra money to drop on a monitor when I specify in the original post that part of my budget includes having to buy one seems a little silly.

Fair enough. Given your budget I was looking at the 7950 as well since you had room for that and since the 760 was in the same ballpark it made more sense to me honestly. Since the 670 is a stronger card then the 7950. But you are right you could reduce things by getting a cheaper card certainly and be just fine just the same.

 

[bigshootr8]

Here is something you could do around the AMD FX 8350. This is all from newegg you can get 50 dollars less if you were to go with the cheapest available. ANd if you have a retail version of Windows you are good to go and can take that off as well.

If you live near a micro center then I would go with them for a INTEL CPU/MOBO combo.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-8350 4.0GHz 8-Core Processor ($179.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card ($255.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($72.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $956.56
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-09 19:36 EDT-0400)

My concern with this build is that it leaves me next to no room in my budget to pick up a monitor or a keyboard. Also the video card seems like a bit overkill.

As a personal owner of an XFX Radeon HD 7770 Ghz Edition, I can assure you.. the GPUs these people are suggesting are not overkill. the 650Ti and 7770 you have in 2/3 of your builds are lackluster pieces in builds that outshine them.

From what I see, you have done very good research in your builds, and you pick very good, very solid an reputable parts... Except your GPU

Although you may feel like these builds are going to cramp your budget, you have to realize that's what its calling for when you decide you want these higher-end parts. It's a circle of requirements. A good CPU needs good RAM.. and to utilize them to their best for gaming.. you'll need a good GPU. and so on.

This is really the main crux between buying a desktop and laptop these days. You can dream up the right build, but when it comes down to having to throw down some cash for the keys, mice, and screen, suddenly its no longer a joyful thing to be ogling over your new build draft : )

The parts these other thread contributors are suggesting are pretty spot on. Take them into consideration and maybe figure out if saving a little more moolah to fit the bill might help out your cause.

I kind of regretted on budgeting on my GPU back when I got my 7770. Although its dubbed the best bang for the buck, its not as well as a performer as you need these days with the games on the market.

You do realize that is A nvidia GTX760 right? Its pretty much a slower version of the GTX670..... I wasn't suggest a 7770 a lower range card or a media card in the GTX650Ti.

I was directing my comments about his own drafted builds, and if you re-read my post, you'll understand that I was complimenting your suggestions. Read his first two builds, he lists a 7790 and a 7770. My opening statement was about those decisions and I explained why we're recommending higher grade cards rather than the ones he picked himself.

Also, http://gpuboss.com/gpus/GeForce-GTX-760-vs-GeForce-GTX-670

a 760 is a cheaper way of getting 670 performance, except you have a higher base clock speed, more efficient architecture, higher turbo, and less heat production. Its also very easy to software-overclock a 760 over and upwards to a 680's marks these days. So really, why would anyone waste the dollars on a 670?

If you thought I was picking at your suggestions, you were mistaken. I was highlighting the suggested changes you made to the OP's original post.

Yea I realized that after I apologize. At first I thought it was direct to me due to the quote response but I gotcha.

 

[timaeustestified]

Let me ask you this then. Saying I have roughly 750 for the actual computer, then 200 for the monitor/os, what GPU would you go with? Heck, maybe I should just fill out the form since it may be better to stray away from the supercombo regardless

 

[cjkupers]

You can choose a 760k Athlon or go with an A10 chip.. disable the integrated graphics and overclock the CPU. Then you can squeeze in a pricey GPU.

 

[timaeustestified]

You can choose a 760k Athlon or go with an A10 chip.. disable the integrated graphics and overclock the CPU. Then you can squeeze in a pricey GPU.

I don't really plan to OC, however. Would it be easier if I just filled out the form so you folks could know exactly what I wanted?

 

[bigshootr8]

Let me ask you this then. Saying I have roughly 750 for the actual computer, then 200 for the monitor/os, what GPU would you go with? Heck, maybe I should just fill out the form since it may be better to stray away from the supercombo regardless

If you went down to 750 you would probably be looking into something like a 7850 1 gigabyte card. And a toned down cpu for sure a 6300 or a a10 possibly or a low end i3.

For example this. Keep in mind that the base total is $724

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-6300 3.5GHz 6-Core Processor ($117.98 @ Outlet PC)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.98 @ Outlet PC)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($61.98 @ Outlet PC)
Video Card: MSI Radeon HD 7850 2GB Video Card ($154.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($89.98 @ Outlet PC)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($44.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($16.97 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $681.84
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-10 15:54 EDT-0400)

and newegg only
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-6300 3.5GHz 6-Core Processor ($119.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: MSI Radeon HD 7850 2GB Video Card ($165.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($109.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($65.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $739.57
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-10 15:55 EDT-0400)

 

[timaeustestified]

Let me ask you this then. Saying I have roughly 750 for the actual computer, then 200 for the monitor/os, what GPU would you go with? Heck, maybe I should just fill out the form since it may be better to stray away from the supercombo regardless

If you went down to 750 you would probably be looking into something like a 7850 1 gigabyte card. And a toned down cpu for sure a 6300 or a a10 possibly or a low end i3.

For example this. Keep in mind that the base total is $724

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-6300 3.5GHz 6-Core Processor ($117.98 @ Outlet PC)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.98 @ Outlet PC)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($61.98 @ Outlet PC)
Video Card: MSI Radeon HD 7850 2GB Video Card ($154.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($89.98 @ Outlet PC)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($44.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($16.97 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $681.84
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-10 15:54 EDT-0400)

and newegg only
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: AMD FX-6300 3.5GHz 6-Core Processor ($119.99 @ Newegg)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: ASRock 990FX Extreme3 ATX AM3+/AM3 Motherboard ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Kingston Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($54.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: MSI Radeon HD 7850 2GB Video Card ($165.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Fractal Design Arc Midi R2 (Black) ATX Mid Tower Case ($109.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($65.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $739.57
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-10 15:55 EDT-0400)

I like both of these builds, but I did a bit more research and found an intel-based build that, even with the OS, comes to about 785 after rebates and such.
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($189.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($29.99 @ Microcenter)
Motherboard: ASRock B85M Pro4 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($86.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: Kingston HyperX Blu 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($63.50 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($59.98 @ Outlet PC)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon HD 7870 GHz Edition 2GB Video Card ($175.66 @ Newegg)
Case: Corsair 200R ATX Mid Tower Case ($39.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: XFX 650W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($49.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8 (OEM) (64-bit) ($88.88 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $784.96
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-09-10 18:56 EDT-0400)

 

[cjkupers]

nice! That build looks good.

 

[bigshootr8]

It is you could go cheaper as well go with a cheaper i5. Also consider windows 7 as your OS. And, if you are okay with a cheaper case then sure the 200R works. I'd personally prefer the build you have. Well if you could manage to pay the base total of $837 and then an additional 40 dollars in mail in rebates.

 

[cjkupers]

You can also same money on the OS.. and obtain it through other means..

 

[bigshootr8]

You can also same money on the OS.. and obtain it through other means..

Legal means I hope. Either way the i5 build isn't a bad way to go I'd prefer it over a AMD build currently. But like I said if you are willing to fork out a little more to then save a good amount through savings/MIR then its a good fit.

 

[cjkupers]

Benchmarking shows the i5 outperforms even the fx 8350 at stock clock rates, although the hardware specifications would make you think otherwise.

http://www.anandtech.com/bench/product/697?vs=837

 

[bigshootr8]

With most applications benefiting more from single threaded applications the victor goes to the i5. You also get the quad core element the i5 as well. Where you would really only see a larger lead in would perhaps be in production work with a program that could utilize all 8 cores.