First Build - Suggestions?

[ronrob92]

Hello everyone,

First post here! I am looking to build a new computer, and have a general setup, but I really want to get some expert's opinions on what I have come up with.

Basically, I own a MBP and run Windows 7 Ultimate on it. The laptop isn't old, I bought it a year ago, but I really want it to last another four years, and the temperature I pull on this thing while running games at medium high specs are scary.

I really need a good gaming system, the best my budget can afford really. Since I already own the laptop, it doesn't necessarily need to be a multipurpose tool, I really only need it to run games. I'm thinking a budget of right around $1000 should be able to get me something suitable, and this is what I came up with.

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115072

I'm set on the i5 2500K, unless someone can suggest an alternative processor or convince me to get the i7 2600K. Seems like other than hyperthreading you don't get too much more for your money.($219.99)

Mobo: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131806

I really wanted to get the ASUS Maximus IV Extreme, but I just couldn't fit it into my budget. I like that this one supports 32GB of RAM, and has USB 3.0. (189.99)

GPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130604

This part has me worried the most... I really don't know much about GPU comparison, but this seems like an awfully good value and isn't too far away from the EVGA GTX 580 that retails for almost $600. My budget was originally $250, but I am willing to spend as much as $350 on a card, if it's worth it. If anyone could reccommend something better, I would be really appreciative. I think/hope that when the GeForce 600 series releases, I can pick up a GTX580 for cheap. (249.99)

I was going to get a 750w Corsair CMPSU-750TX PSU (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139006) to power all of this, as well. I'm fairly sure it is overkill, but figured it would allow for a possible future SLI, if I choose to go that route.

I was thinking I would start with 8GB of G.Skill Sniper Series DDR3 1866 RAM, and upgrade later. (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231460&Tpk=g.skill sniper series 8gb)

I haven't been able to settle on a case either. I was looking at a few but can't narrow my list down at all. Could anyone suggest a good case? And thanks for your help in advance, I know this was a lot to read.

 

[Perkomate]

good looking build so far. Only problems I can see, is that there's no HDD. Do you have one you can use? because that will slash a few hundered off the price.

In regards to the case, how much are you willing to spend, and what do you want it to look like? Do you want something that looks tough, or something that looks like an alien? Or do you just want one that looks normal?

 

[ronrob92]

Yeah, I have the HDD all set up. I have a Seagate Barracuda 1TB HDD, as well as some optical bays.

As far as cases go, I'm looking for something...nice? Not really sure how to explain it really, I don't want a gaudy, or alien looking case, but not something that is boring either. Maybe, industrial is the word i'm looking for. I was looking at the Antec DF-35, but I saw the case in person, and the plastic on the front is kind of cheap feeling. I really like the Antec nine hundred and eleven hundred, as well as some of the coolermaster cases. The COolermaster HAF X looks nice, as well as the 690 II case.

 

[SMGOwnage]

I'd reccomend the HAF 912 or HAF 922 Case or even the Antec 100 case.

I have the Antec 100 case it looks a little boring but ok to me.

The HAF series are great looking cases I just couldnt fit it into my budget

 

[Perkomate]

NZXT Phantom in White. It looks kinda... futuristic. Awesome design too.

 

[ronrob92]

Thanks for the help guys! The Phantom in white looks beautiful! I love it. Should I wait a few months and spring for a GTX580 though?

 

[azeem40]

Only one suggestion: If you have a Microcenter nearby, the CPU is $40 off.

 

[Perkomate]

Thanks for the help guys! The Phantom in white looks beautiful! I love it. Should I wait a few months and spring for a GTX580 though?

You mean wait until the prices come down? It depends. I don't think you should lock yourself into buying the 580, because there might be better cards for the same price when team red and team green unveil their full range.

 

[jonnyp11]

well for 550 the 7970 is already beating the 580 by an average of about 20% for 10% more money, sounds better to me, and perkmonate i think they meant to save up the extra money.