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Question

Is this a good gaming computer build?

Apr 21, 2012 6:05PM PDT

Hey guys this is my first time every building a computer, couple of things, i am not overly worried about money, pretty much primarily gaming for this, and please review my parts, tell me if there is anything that can be improved upon, if anything isnt compatible with another part, etc

Here's the link to my newegg wishlist

http://secure.newegg.com/WishList/PublicWishDetail.aspx?WishListNumber=15034534
(I know most of you will say dont get the tool case, but i want to get it anyways because, i actually dont think i have a screwdriver anymore lol, and i figure getting an antistatic wrist band can be a good idea anyways, even if not totally necessary)

Thanks for your help!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
NO!
Apr 30, 2012 8:24AM PDT

I can't find the necessary 3D Video card.
Bob

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Answer
A few changes
May 7, 2012 10:45AM PDT

I've got a few comments on your build. I've built 3 gaming systems, and my current one uses a 2500k CPU w Hyper 212 cooler, Gigabyte Z68ma mATX motherboard, Crucial 64GB SSD, 500 GB Seagate, 650W Corsair Enthusaist PSU, and HD6850 video card.

I guess it depends on what you want out of your computer and what your budget is. I will point out a few things I have learned though. Even with a high overclock on the 2500K CPU, your powersupply is way overkill unless you're planning on running multiple video cards. The 2500K CPU is rated at 95W, even at a 4.5GHz overclock you're looking at maybe 110-115W. Depending on your video card you could be using maybe another 150-200W with a higher end card. So your power supply is probably overkill, I think you could get away with something half the price.
Another thing to point out, your motherboard is an excellent choice, but the Z77 platform is brand new, so why not go with a new Ivy Bridge CPU while you're at it? They do run a bit warmer when OC'd, but you don't need to run them as high as the Sandy Bridge to get better performance. I would recommend the 3770K CPU, it has the same power rating as the 2500K and benchmarks about 33% higher on Passmark tests. It'll cost you about an extra $80-$100 depending on where you get it. (which with a cheaper power supply would even out).
Next is the solid state drive. I am very happy with my crucial SSD, and in fact I just ordered another 128GB M4 for another build. My next build coming later this month however, I will be using a 256GB M4 SSD. The reason why is because you'll want Windows as well as your programs running on that SSD for best performance so you'll want the extra space. The 256GB is on Amazon for $200. Also, if you're running a single video card you could probably get away with a micro ATX motherboard and case if space is an issue. That Asus P8Z77 motherboard comes with WiFi already so you probably won't need an extra WiFi adapter. I'd recommend a Geforce GTX480 video card with that system, should run about $200.

Asus P8Z77 Motherboard ($200)
Intel Ivy Bridge i7 3770K CPU ($300)
500-600W PSU ($100)
8GB Ram ($75ish)
256GB SSD ($200)
2TB HDD ($130)
GTX480 ($200)
DVD Drive ($20)
Win 7 ($100)
Noctua Cooler ($100) - you could probably get away with a cheaper one too (like a 212 Hyper or Zalman), this will not be a bottleneck for the system and you really wont need to overclock it until newer games come out. I still haven't OC'd my 2500K, even when running BF3 I can still run on high settings even with the HD6850.

And then your monitor. ($500) I personally don't care for anti-virus programs like Norton, as long as you aren't being wreckless and have a secured network I don't think you have too much to worry about as far as virus's are concerned.