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Message
Help me build a PC - $1,500(ish); gaming + photo & video editing; x2 OS
Posted on 10/3/14 at 4:38 pm
Posted on 10/3/14 at 4:38 pm
Tech Board crowd -- I'm interested in building a desktop computer for the first time, and I'm looking for y'all's advice and guidance on basically everything and anything.
Here's a post I just put up on /r/BuildAPCForMe.
1st time builder: $1500 for Windows & OS X; photo & video editing; some gaming
Here's a copy / paste of what's in that post to get me started. If I'm missing things, let me know and I can work from there.
What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.
I work in a mass communication field, so I want to be able to edit and photo and videos as well as basic word processing and Internet surfing as a primary use.
Additionally, I'd like to be able to game on it with all my PC friends since I'm not upgrading to a next-gen console.
I'd like to be able to run both Windows (primarily to game with my PC friends) and run Apple's OS (to keep consistency with work life as well as because I personally have used Apple OS for the past 5+ years).
Software wise, I'm talking about running everything from the Adobe Suite (PhotoShop, etc.) and Final Cut Pro to Steam and whatever else I'd need to play some badass games like The Division, Shadow of Mordor, Skyrim with some mods finally, etc.
Since I am a console gamer until this computer is built, I am more comfortable using a controller than keyboard/mouse. I'd like to make sure my computer has some sort of controller adaptor that I can use on games.
Lastly, I'd like to make sure I have a CD/DVD burner. I may burn some DVDs for work life, but I still like making CDs for friends (cause I'm stuck in 1999).
What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?
Ideally, I'd like to spend around $1,000, but wouldn't be upset with spending $1,500 if necessary. $2,000 is the absolute max I'd consider, and only for convincing reason.
When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.
As soon as possible as I have the finances and need right now. I figured I'd post it now at the beginning of October in case we're getting to where some holidays sales are coming up (idk if that's just a poor assumption on my part, though).
What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (Tower/OS/monitor/keyboard/mouse/etc)
Everything. I need to build the actual computer (hardware), get x2 OS (Windows and Apple), a keyboard, a mouse, a gaming controller, an a nice monitor. Ideally, I'd get a big monitor (27 inch?), but I'd also like the ability to hook it up to my Samsung TV with HDMI or such. And whatever else I'm not aware of that would be necessary?
Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?
I'm in Austin, Texas, U.S. The nearest Microcenter is about three hours away, so going in store isn't ideal.
If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.
I'm starting from scratch, so... nothing.
Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?
Honestly, my understanding of overclocking is minimal. I'm not planning on doing any of this unless y'all're saying it's necessary or ideal for some reason?
Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)
I'm not entirely sure?
Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-tower/full-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?
No real preference here?
Do you need a copy of Windows 7 or 8.1 included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference for one or the other?
I do need OS, and I am hoping I can build something that runs both Windows and the Apple OS. As far as a preference, I was just going with the newest ones, unless y'all say that's a bad idea.
Thanks in advance for any tips and advice, and let me know if there's something more I can provide to help with this request.
Here's a post I just put up on /r/BuildAPCForMe.
1st time builder: $1500 for Windows & OS X; photo & video editing; some gaming
Here's a copy / paste of what's in that post to get me started. If I'm missing things, let me know and I can work from there.
What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.
I work in a mass communication field, so I want to be able to edit and photo and videos as well as basic word processing and Internet surfing as a primary use.
Additionally, I'd like to be able to game on it with all my PC friends since I'm not upgrading to a next-gen console.
I'd like to be able to run both Windows (primarily to game with my PC friends) and run Apple's OS (to keep consistency with work life as well as because I personally have used Apple OS for the past 5+ years).
Software wise, I'm talking about running everything from the Adobe Suite (PhotoShop, etc.) and Final Cut Pro to Steam and whatever else I'd need to play some badass games like The Division, Shadow of Mordor, Skyrim with some mods finally, etc.
Since I am a console gamer until this computer is built, I am more comfortable using a controller than keyboard/mouse. I'd like to make sure my computer has some sort of controller adaptor that I can use on games.
Lastly, I'd like to make sure I have a CD/DVD burner. I may burn some DVDs for work life, but I still like making CDs for friends (cause I'm stuck in 1999).
What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?
Ideally, I'd like to spend around $1,000, but wouldn't be upset with spending $1,500 if necessary. $2,000 is the absolute max I'd consider, and only for convincing reason.
When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.
As soon as possible as I have the finances and need right now. I figured I'd post it now at the beginning of October in case we're getting to where some holidays sales are coming up (idk if that's just a poor assumption on my part, though).
What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (Tower/OS/monitor/keyboard/mouse/etc)
Everything. I need to build the actual computer (hardware), get x2 OS (Windows and Apple), a keyboard, a mouse, a gaming controller, an a nice monitor. Ideally, I'd get a big monitor (27 inch?), but I'd also like the ability to hook it up to my Samsung TV with HDMI or such. And whatever else I'm not aware of that would be necessary?
Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?
I'm in Austin, Texas, U.S. The nearest Microcenter is about three hours away, so going in store isn't ideal.
If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.
I'm starting from scratch, so... nothing.
Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?
Honestly, my understanding of overclocking is minimal. I'm not planning on doing any of this unless y'all're saying it's necessary or ideal for some reason?
Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)
I'm not entirely sure?
Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-tower/full-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?
No real preference here?
Do you need a copy of Windows 7 or 8.1 included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference for one or the other?
I do need OS, and I am hoping I can build something that runs both Windows and the Apple OS. As far as a preference, I was just going with the newest ones, unless y'all say that's a bad idea.
Thanks in advance for any tips and advice, and let me know if there's something more I can provide to help with this request.
4
Posted on 10/3/14 at 4:44 pm to npersa1
May want to cross post this on the gaming board. I think Stout knows about this stuff. I'm sure others here will chime in as well.
Posted on 10/3/14 at 4:48 pm to I Love Bama
you need ILikeLSUToo to answer. I built a new PC based on his recommendations and when I had issues helped me out until it was fixed and working.
Posted on 10/3/14 at 4:48 pm to I Love Bama
Thanks for the pointer. I linked this thread in the "PC Discussion - Gaming, Performance and Enthusiasts" thread rather than starting a new one.
Posted on 10/3/14 at 4:55 pm to npersa1
I'll try to get to this sometime tonight. However, you've introduced a somewhat annoying challenge that I have to research, unless you've done that research already -- and that is, Hackintoshes. You can't just use whatever components you want for a Hackintosh, especially the motherboard. It has to play nicely with OS X's native support (or lack of) for particular hardware and the extremely limited driver support. You should spend some time reading and watching tutorials on hackintosh.com LINK .
I'll be surprised if redditors on there are going to be much help in this regard.
Monitor, mouse, keyboard, tower, and two OSes (if you aren't pirating). I would probably prepare for the $1500 range rather than $1000.
Anyways, I'll look into the compatibility issue tonight. As far as learning how to install OS X and make it all work, that's on you.
If it weren't for the gaming aspect and your budget, I'd just say go buy a Mac and game on Bootcamp, but the GPU offerings from Apple are unremarkable.
I'll be surprised if redditors on there are going to be much help in this regard.
quote:
Everything. I need to build the actual computer (hardware), get x2 OS (Windows and Apple), a keyboard, a mouse, a gaming controller, an a nice monitor. Ideally, I'd get a big monitor (27 inch?), but I'd also like the ability to hook it up to my Samsung TV with HDMI or such. And whatever else I'm not aware of that would be necessary?
Monitor, mouse, keyboard, tower, and two OSes (if you aren't pirating). I would probably prepare for the $1500 range rather than $1000.
Anyways, I'll look into the compatibility issue tonight. As far as learning how to install OS X and make it all work, that's on you.
If it weren't for the gaming aspect and your budget, I'd just say go buy a Mac and game on Bootcamp, but the GPU offerings from Apple are unremarkable.
This post was edited on 10/3/14 at 5:10 pm
Posted on 10/3/14 at 5:50 pm to npersa1
I wouldn't build a Hackintosh. I did it a few years ago for the novelty of it but there really is no usefulness to building one. If you want a Mac then buy a Mac.
If you want to build a PC then build a Windows machine.
If you want to build a PC then build a Windows machine.
Posted on 10/3/14 at 5:58 pm to ILikeLSUToo
Awesome. I'll read up this weekend for sure, and that's the starting level I'm at -- any and all research and background is helpful.
I haven't messed around with BootCamp at all either. From the gaming side, I just want to be able to play with my friends, who are almost exclusively PC gamers.
Thanks for the help. I really appreciate it.
I haven't messed around with BootCamp at all either. From the gaming side, I just want to be able to play with my friends, who are almost exclusively PC gamers.
Thanks for the help. I really appreciate it.
Posted on 10/3/14 at 6:06 pm to VABuckeye
Why do you say it didn't have the usefulness? I'm open to reconsidering my idea.
Backing up, the reasons I'd want to have mac:
--photo and video editing (Adobe suite and iMovie-level software; I don't actually need to be on Final Cut level. I also haven't really used the Adobes on PC)
--compatibility with iphone? I'm not too sold on this being an issue.
--It's been a while since I've used Windows. Honestly, I'm not even sure I've used the current OS beyond for a few minutes.
Why I want to build a PC:
--Gaming
--More bang for buck hardware wise
Backing up, the reasons I'd want to have mac:
--photo and video editing (Adobe suite and iMovie-level software; I don't actually need to be on Final Cut level. I also haven't really used the Adobes on PC)
--compatibility with iphone? I'm not too sold on this being an issue.
--It's been a while since I've used Windows. Honestly, I'm not even sure I've used the current OS beyond for a few minutes.
Why I want to build a PC:
--Gaming
--More bang for buck hardware wise
Posted on 10/3/14 at 6:13 pm to npersa1
The only actual barrier I see in that list is iMovie. You'd have to learn something else. Adobe suite is great on PC. The interface is largely the same, as well as the hardware utilization -- the difference being the ability to scale much higher for much less hardware-wise on the PC. Windows 8.1 is not difficult to figure out unless you're hellbent on hating it or borderline retarded. The interface can be customized. Hell, you can just install a Mavericks Skin Pack for the look. 
I'm an iPhone user as well.
I'm an iPhone user as well.
This post was edited on 10/3/14 at 6:14 pm
Posted on 10/3/14 at 9:18 pm to npersa1
It's a pain to upgrade a Hackintosh because of specific hardware requirements. It's also a pain to update software. Anytime you make a change to the hardware or OS you are at risk.
It's strictly a computer to build as a toy and not something for important data or critical work.
It's strictly a computer to build as a toy and not something for important data or critical work.
Posted on 10/3/14 at 10:08 pm to VABuckeye
Yeah I think he needs to make a decision about OS X or not before I go hunting down compatible parts. As is stands now, it appears that there isn't enough definitive information out there to recommend a reliable Z97 board for OS X. From what I've read, even when motherboards cooperate sufficiently enough, they can still have issues with recognizing certain onboard sound chips, NICs, and SATA controllers.
The more I read about it, the less I'd ever want to bother with something like this for an OS I don't want, not even for fun. There's even a subreddit called r/Hackintosh, and one of the notes on the sidebar says they won't help people with getting AMD cards to work, so apparently there's some complicated workarounds. Once you actually have the parts selected, the fun has only begun as far as getting everything to work right.
No thanks.
I'll configure a well-rounded gaming/workstation PC that may or may not work with OS X. These are the general specs. If it has to be hackintosh, figure out whether these parts are compatible and swap out equivalent ones accordingly. It seems like the audio codec and LAN are the biggest issues. Anything with Killer brand Ethernet doesn't work it bypasses OS X's TCP/IP stack.
PCPartPicker part list: LINK
CPU: Intel Core i7-4790K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor ($336.74 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($28.98 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: MSI Z97S SLI Plus ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($128.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Mushkin Redline 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-2133 Memory ($144.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Crucial MX100 256GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($109.97 @ SuperBiiz)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($53.98 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 970 4GB ACX Video Card ($329.98 @ NCIX US)
Case: Corsair 300R ATX Mid Tower Case ($59.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: Rosewill Hive 650W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24F1ST DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Amazon)
Monitor: QNIX QX2710 LED Evolution II Multi TRUE10 SE 27" 2560x1440 QHD DVI HDMI Monitor ($279.99)
Total: $1548.59
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-10-03 23:06 EDT-0400
The more I read about it, the less I'd ever want to bother with something like this for an OS I don't want, not even for fun. There's even a subreddit called r/Hackintosh, and one of the notes on the sidebar says they won't help people with getting AMD cards to work, so apparently there's some complicated workarounds. Once you actually have the parts selected, the fun has only begun as far as getting everything to work right.
No thanks.
I'll configure a well-rounded gaming/workstation PC that may or may not work with OS X. These are the general specs. If it has to be hackintosh, figure out whether these parts are compatible and swap out equivalent ones accordingly. It seems like the audio codec and LAN are the biggest issues. Anything with Killer brand Ethernet doesn't work it bypasses OS X's TCP/IP stack.
PCPartPicker part list: LINK
CPU: Intel Core i7-4790K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor ($336.74 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($28.98 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: MSI Z97S SLI Plus ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($128.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: Mushkin Redline 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-2133 Memory ($144.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Crucial MX100 256GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($109.97 @ SuperBiiz)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($53.98 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 970 4GB ACX Video Card ($329.98 @ NCIX US)
Case: Corsair 300R ATX Mid Tower Case ($59.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: Rosewill Hive 650W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply ($59.99 @ Amazon)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24F1ST DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Amazon)
Monitor: QNIX QX2710 LED Evolution II Multi TRUE10 SE 27" 2560x1440 QHD DVI HDMI Monitor ($279.99)
Total: $1548.59
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-10-03 23:06 EDT-0400
Posted on 10/3/14 at 11:11 pm to npersa1
I had hackintoshes before and they're just not worth the upkeep. It was often risky business just applying updates, modifying jets, etc. Totally hosed my OS a few times trying to get updates, but I always kept clones of the partitions on hand for backups. Even this is t full-proof depending on the bootloader used and how familiar you are with it.
Getting the exact hardware needed may also cramp your style. I got a gigabyte motherboard for this reason. It was a hobby thing and wasn't necessary at all.
I since bought a real Mac and never looked back. That's not really an option for you since you're a gamer. Everything else could be done with a $600 Mac mini + the monitor of your choice.
Getting the exact hardware needed may also cramp your style. I got a gigabyte motherboard for this reason. It was a hobby thing and wasn't necessary at all.
I since bought a real Mac and never looked back. That's not really an option for you since you're a gamer. Everything else could be done with a $600 Mac mini + the monitor of your choice.
This post was edited on 10/3/14 at 11:16 pm
Posted on 10/6/14 at 9:53 am to ILikeLSUToo
Thanks for all this; I appreciate it.
I'm reconsidering. I started with a goal that's harder to reach than I realized.
I think I may buy a mac and then build a PC for gaming and then find a way for them to share a monitor.
I'm gonna read up more this week and see where a better direction to go is.
I'm reconsidering. I started with a goal that's harder to reach than I realized.
I think I may buy a mac and then build a PC for gaming and then find a way for them to share a monitor.
I'm gonna read up more this week and see where a better direction to go is.
Posted on 10/6/14 at 10:23 am to npersa1
quote:
I think I may buy a mac and then build a PC for gaming and then find a way for them to share a monitor.
Best way to go if you really want a Mac and a gaming machine. Hackintoshes are too much a pain in the arse unless you want a constant project.
Posted on 10/6/14 at 10:46 am to npersa1
Can you not just run an OSX virtual machine for any programs that would require it?
Posted on 10/6/14 at 11:20 am to InVolNerable
It sounds like he wants OS X/Apple to be his primary ecosystem, so VM OSX wouldn't be practical. It would make more sense for him to do that with Windows on a Mac if it weren't for the gaming requirement.
The question now-- if OP is buying two machines, what's the revised budget? The Mac is probably going to consume most of the original budget.
The question now-- if OP is buying two machines, what's the revised budget? The Mac is probably going to consume most of the original budget.
Posted on 10/6/14 at 11:26 am to ILikeLSUToo
quote:
It sounds like he wants OS X/Apple to be his primary ecosystem, so VM OSX wouldn't be practical. It would make more sense for him to do that with Windows on a Mac if it weren't for the gaming requirement. The question now-- if OP is buying two machines, what's the revised budget? The Mac is probably going to consume most of the original budget.
Depending on size monitor he wants, it could easily consume all of his budget.
It might be more beneficial to put as much as he can into the Mac and bootcamp windows for gaming. Then build a gaming PC when he can afford something nice.
I did that on an older 27" iMac until I built my machine last year. I couldn't run a lot of high end stuff and ARMA 3 forced my build, but it worked fine for awhile.
This post was edited on 10/6/14 at 11:29 am
Posted on 10/6/14 at 11:43 am to InVolNerable
quote:
Can you not just run an OSX virtual machine for any programs that would require it?
This is all stuff I need to figure out. I probably prematurely posted asking for build specific, but all this info is getting me on the right track. I know what uses I desire, but I was wrong about how to get there.
Posted on 10/6/14 at 12:04 pm to ILikeLSUToo
Good point. Just trying to throw out a suggestion to get OP thinking about possible options.
If wanting to run everyday operations out of OSX, VM is definitely not the best option.
If wanting to run everyday operations out of OSX, VM is definitely not the best option.
This post was edited on 10/6/14 at 12:06 pm
Posted on 10/6/14 at 3:12 pm to npersa1
If you go the desktop route, I have a really nice case, decent video card and decent z97 motherboard I can sell to you.
Corsair 650D case
Gigabyte Radeon hd 7950
MSI Z87-G45 mobo
Corsair 650D case
Gigabyte Radeon hd 7950
MSI Z87-G45 mobo
This post was edited on 10/6/14 at 3:12 pm
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