AWPortunity :
Not sure if this was already covered, but the more expensive one's CPU doesn't support over clocking and also has an i7 which is unnecessary for gaming. You also don't really need 16gb of RAM. You're honestly just paying for unnecessary processor power, so I suggest the least expensive one and maybe pick up a GTX 970 to replace the 960.
Yes, I completely agree but three things:
1) That is why I suggested building his own, he will get so much more performance per dollar. As you say, i7 with HT and 16GB of RAM is unnecessary for gaming. What really matters in gaming is the GPU.
2) The expensive one has better overall stats, Intel CPU, loads of RAM, with a meh GPU, it does have 4GB of VRAM however for $850. The cheaper one have an AMD CPU, sufficient RAM and a sub-par GPU with 2GB VRAM for $800.
3) Can you see where I am going? For only $50 he will get a much better PC. So even though it may not be completely utilized at this moment, for the specific price and the specific components,
the expensive one will be the wiser choice. -
in my opinion.
If one wants the best value for the money, one needs to build the PC by ones own fist.