Hey guys! As my graphics card is having issues, I will probably be getting a new one or a new computer for Christmas. I was wondering which of these four computers would be better:

 

Intel Build http://pcpartpicker.com/p/2bZsW OR

AMD Build http://pcpartpicker.com/p/25D5j OR

AMD Build http://pcpartpicker.com/p/27D6a OR

a pre-built Intel https://www.gladiatorpc.co.uk/configure/config/57657

 

I was also wondering if I could make any of these cheaper, improve them without raising the cost too much, or if you guys had a better build for about the same price. I was also thinking about getting the first Intel build, but instead of getting the i3-3220 CPU, use my current i5-2320 CPU, but only if it is better or if it was close to the performance of the i3.

 

Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

I'm only an intel/nvidia guy so don't know too much about AMD. However, what I can say is building a computer was definitely worth the experience, time, and money. You will learn so much and it's most likely better for future upgrades.

 

So because my previous statement disqualifies options 2, 3, and 4 (AMD, AMD, and Prebuild) let me look at your first Intel build. 

 

Here's some notes. (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/2bZsW)

1. You don't need a CPU cooler. It's difficult to OC your processor, and even so, you won't yield much better results. 

2. Same goes with the CPU coolant, scrap it. A fan + coolant is supplied in the i3 Box. 

3. Motherboard is a bit more advanced than it needs to be. More expensive motherboards do not make performance better. Get one with the selected ports you need, and with good quality. And bam, you're good. However, what you have is good.

4. Sound card? I don't think that's necessary. I'm not really into that stuff, but unless you do heavy sound making and need top of the line software and audio studio equipment, I don't see that being necessary. I don't know what you do though. 

5. I highly recommend using an Ethernet cable (Direct Connection) if possible (Like if the router is right next to you). USB 2.0 Wifi thing looks like a disaster. 

6. How do you intend on storing your data? Bring it over from another computer? Could I know the model and speed (RPM) of your current HDD or SSD if so? 

7. Your CPU and GPU are the single most important pieces in the system for speed, and they currently look like bottlenecks in your system. I'd try for at least a GTX X60 (X standing for series, 5, 6, or 7 series). As for CPU, I'd recommend at least a Quad Core Processor. (i5 Series).

 

This is my computer build (Copied directly off my Steam Profile)

My Current Computer Build (Yes,I built it): 
Initially designed in Q4 2012 
Case - Antec Eleven Hundred - Custom Fans 
OS - Windows 8 64bit Home 
Processor - Intel Core i5 Ivy Bridge @ 3.4GHz (Turbo Boost @ 4.1GHz) 
GPU - EVGA GTX 660 SC SE (1X) 
MOBO - ASUS P8Z77-V LK 
PSU - Corsair HX750 
Processor Fan - Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO - 2 Fans 
Storage - Intel 520 Series SSD 120GB (Intel RST Cache + Bandicam Cache) 
<RAID_10 CONFIGURATION> 
Storage - (2X) 2TB Western Digital Caviar Black 64 MB Cache @ 7200RPM 
Storage - (2X) 2TB Seagate Barracuda 64MB Cache @ 7200RPM 
</RAID_10 CONFIGURATION> 
RAM - 2x 4GB Corsair Vengeance @ 1600Mhz 
Monitor - Samsung Sync Master PX2370 23'' LED 
Keyboard - Logitech G710+ Mechanical Keyboard 
Mouse - Logitech Corded Mouse 
Mic - Yes 
Webcam - Yes 

I was once a noob at this stuff too, if you need any clarification. Just ask. 

.

 

Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

Oh ok, so why not spend money on buying a different graphics card, or buy a second one to SLI (Not sure if MOBO supports, you'd have to check) instead of building a complete different build?

 

You could try buying an SSD to put games on too, or the OS. Or a little bit of both. You'd see a change there too.

 

Buying a new PSU would also be good.

 

But the dell sounds fine as is, however if you can the best thing is to just build your own computer. I'm not sure if the Dell 8300 Cases are based on an ATX format, my guess is no because their MOBOs are most certainly not ATX. 

 

Also, the i5 2320 in my best guess is most likely better than the i3, quad core power triumphs everything. 

 

But from my personal experience, I had a Dell XPS 410 and I upgraded the shit of that thing with my dad until I finally realized it wasn't worth it anymore, so that's when I got serious about my computer build. And I'm so glad I build my own build, so if you can I highly recommend building your own, however if money is a problem for you then I do recommend a good GPU and PSU and maybe SSD change on the Dell XPS.

 

Finally, you can always just build the basics of a new computer and add on periodically as you get more money. For example, I have 1X GTX 660 and I probably will buy a second one to SLI this Christmas.

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Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

I have knowledge on AMD processors if you need any help. I'm not good with AMD's GPUs though. Right now, I am running an AMD FX-8350 eight-core @4.0 Ghz (4.2 turbo). It clocks in at about $200 on newegg. It is an absolutely great CPU but it may be a bit pricy and you'd need to get an AMD compatible Mobo.

 

Edit: You say you might be getting a 660 TI? The minimum power requirement for those is a 450W so I would suggest a new PSU.

Edited December 2, 201312 yr by 1ian20

Are you willing to scrap the Dell XPS 8300 for some parts? 

 

For example, you could buy a new tower, a new MOBO, and transfer over existing CPU, GPU, RAM, HDD, PSU, and DVD Drive and cables.

 

Then with any left over money you could try a new GPU, SSD, CPU, PSU, and anything else. 

 

And 1ian is right, if you plan on buying anything in the Nvidia X60 (X Standing for the Series, 5/6/7) Series I'd recommend at least a 500W PSU to play safe. For this, I'd recommend the brand Corsair, I love them. 

Hey guys! As my graphics card is having issues, I will probably be getting a new one or a new computer for Christmas. I was wondering which of these four computers would be better:

 

Intel Build http://pcpartpicker.com/p/2bZsW OR

AMD Build http://pcpartpicker.com/p/25D5j OR

AMD Build http://pcpartpicker.com/p/27D6a OR

a pre-built Intel https://www.gladiatorpc.co.uk/configure/config/57657

 

I was also wondering if I could make any of these cheaper, improve them without raising the cost too much, or if you guys had a better build for about the same price. I was also thinking about getting the first Intel build, but instead of getting the i3-3220 CPU, use my current i5-2320 CPU, but only if it is better or if it was close to the performance of the i3.

 

 

I would have to say one of the AMD builds to be honest. The second one I believe would be best of the two however. Mainly the amd builds over the intel becaue a six core in general will be able to handle more than a dual core i3. Plus it has a 550 power supply so it will give you some wiggle room if you ever decide to overclock either your gpu or cpu.

 

If you've got the money I'd upgrade to an amd 8 core, or at least that should keep that in mind for you upgrade in the future. However if get a high end intel i7 quad core it will be able to keep up and should have much of a problem out powering the amd 8 core (assuming no overclocking is invovled).

theninja35, remember what I said. AMD is good and all, but I was just giving you advice on Intel/Nvidia as that is where my strength is. 

 

I have a bit of a grudge against AMD, for personal reasons. But I won't spill my bias. 

 

But sorry, I cannot help you on the AMD end of the computer spectrum. 

 

EDIT: What I can say, is what I've heard, AMD is better for budget. 

Edited December 3, 201312 yr by Mr.Quiggles

None of them strike me as particularly great. The AMD builds at least have more cores available, so I'd stick with one of those if you absolutely had to pick one of them.

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Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

The second link is a much stronger build! 

 

One thing you need is an OS. Because you had a dell Pre-installed copy of Windows Whatever you have I doubt you can transfer that stuff over. So you will probably need an OEM Version of Windows 8.1 64 Bit (I recommend) and some kind of system drive to copy the data to temporarily or permanently. 

 

Another thing, If you plan on using your old CPU on the new MOBO, you will have to buy some kind of a CPU Cooler/Fan. I doubt the Dell one would work as it's most likely specifically built for that particular MOBO. 

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Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

Oh, your OS Copy has a disc. It will work of course then.

 

And what are you concerned won't fit into the case? I can check everything. you're unsure of

the best computer any-one can have if they spend over 2k. for an 2k PC it be Great frps and high settings

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Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

You chose a Standard ATX Format Case, good choice.

 

PSU, GPU, CPU, RAM, MOBO, CD Drive, Fans (120MM Only), all will fit. 

 

The graphics card will fit on one of the PCI Express Ports on the Motherboard and will stick out the back of the case. (Not actually stick out, but it will line up and will vent hot air out through it). 

 

A standard CD Drive will fit inside the case too. 

 

You definitely don't need to spend anywhere near $2000 to play most games on High Settings. I have 1X GTX 660 and I can run all games on High Settings with a decent FPS. I'm content. I don't overdo it. 

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Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire

No problem! I enjoy this. It's just as helpful for me as it for you.

 

Any ATX case will work for you.

 

As for a CPU Cooler, what CPU do you intend on using? My guess is if you're bringing over the i5 then you won't be overclocking. (That stuff is pretty in depth, complicated, and dangerous). 

 

There are many types of CPU coolers including fans, heatsinks, and liquid cooling, or a combination of both. If you're not doing overclocking, I recommend buying just a generic stock cooler or something similiar that Intel supplies with their processors. You may have never seen one before because the Dell XPS uses their own, so here's a picture.

 

This is a fan based CPU Cooler. 

 

The units are very cheap, but don't worry. It'll do the job. Remember to apply thermal paste (There's specific ways to do it, don't screw it up). 

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Edited June 22, 20241 yr by tobeymaguire