Ok guys I need your help. My goal within the next couple of weeks is to piece together a nice gaming pc. So what I was asking of you guys is if you can lend me your knowledge in parts. If you see good deals on items such a motherboards, CPUs, ram Anything post it Here. I'm starting from scratch.


Also so I can save another thread what should i go with AMD or intel. I'm hearing mixed reviews. Also intel core or intel quad?? Thank guys. Please help me.

Plus if I get a good deal from your suggested website I'll throw some viZzed your way just as a little compensation.

Intel - Double the price of AMD (approx) but lasts twice as long (on average)
AMD - Half the price of Intel but only lasts half as long

So it depends on how often you want to repair your CPU, but Intel CPUs are generally better made and last alot longer, so I would say they are better for your buck.

On the subject of Dual vs Quad: what is the maximum amount of tasks you would conceivably be doing at once?
If you just want a hardcore gaming machine then a high end dual would suit fine while a quad would allow you to multi task alot.
If price is an issue then a lower quad might suit you better then a lower dual as you will have a higher processor all up.

I recommend for a GPU (graphics card) you go with the nVidia ones.
I have used both nVidia and AMD GPUs and have found that the nVidia ones are compatible with more games, both old and new.
Anything from the GF8 series upwards unless you're short on cash.

As for ram, well DDR2 is cheap these days, you can get 8gb (4x2gb sticks) for under $80.
If you want the latest then you'll pay more for DDR3, it can be worth it if you want a system that can go above 32gb of ram, but it can be a bit extravagant.
Also, if you want to use over 4gb of ram you will need to get a 64bit operating system, I recommend the "Ultimate" versions of either Windows Vista or 7.

I agree with DH, I don't know much about computers but from my experience AMD blows don't get it. Go with Intel! That is about all the advice I can offer lol.

the only thing I have to add is that you're usually better off spending a little extra in order to get a better quality machine. cheaping out on stuff is only going to cause you more grief in the long run

@Dark and Jig
Thanks guys.. Super excellent info.. Im going to go with Intel and probably a core 2 duo.. It will be strictly for gaming as I do have a Mac which I use for photoshop and Final Cut soo the quad would have been helpful there but im running an older machine..


quick question.. when I go with the ram.. whichever mother board I buy decides the type I ram its compatible with correct?

does anyone know how much the 64 bit vista or 7 OS cost? or do you guys just get cracked versions?

Originally posted by Aaronrulz1

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quick question.. when I go with the ram.. whichever mother board I buy decides the type I ram its compatible with correct?

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Mostly yes. The motherboard will determine if you use DDR2 or 3, the maximum you can use and on occassion the speed of the ram.
If you want DDR2 you need to get a board that has the right slots for it. It also determines if you can use Crossfire or SLI GPUs.
Again, if cash is an issue look at an Intel socket 775 motherboard and chipset (CPU), they tend to be a little cheaper but only because they are the previous model to current.

If you're unsure you can just post the make and model number (random example, make: Gigabyte model: GA-73UM-S2H)

Originally posted by Aaronrulz1

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does anyone know how much the 64 bit vista or 7 OS cost? or do you guys just get cracked versions?

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I use a legit copy of Vista Ultimate 64, I'm a system builder so I got the cheaper OEM veriosn (see below).

I'm not sure about USA availabiliy and prices but I can look. You can get a retail copy of Windows 7 Ultimate directly from Microsoft for $219.99.
That's a download only version, you can get the disk version for an extra $14.95.
I think you would have to get Vista from a local PC store.

If you get a system built you can get an OEM copy rather then a retail of whatever operating system.
An OEM copy is no different to a retail copy you might find sold on its own in stores, it's just cheaper.
Other then that it's exactly the same. The reason is because it is "only to be sold with a new PC".
In other words, get enough parts to build a PC and you can get the OEM copy.
If you are getting it built by a store, don't let them make you think you need a full retail copy, that's BS.