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PC for new games

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  • 24-06-2016 1:13pm
    #1
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭


    Hey guys, I really don't know much about PC's, I've been using an old laptop the past 10 years or so to play some old games, the newest game i'd play on it would be DOW 2, it has to be the lowest graphics and even then it lags.

    With DOW 3 coming out and Total War: Warhammer already out, I need a PC that will be able to comfortably run these games. Could anyone suggest a PC that will run these without any problems?

    Budget is €750, I can go up to a grand if I really have too.

    Thanks.

    1. What is your budget? [€750]

    2. What will be the main purpose of the computer? [Gaming, DOW 2, Total War]

    3. Do you need a copy of Windows? [Possibly]

    4. Can you use any parts from an old computer? Nope

    5. Do you need a monitor? [No]

    5a. If yes, what size do you need. [19'/20'/22'/24'/etc.]

    5b. If no, what resolution is your current monitor and do you plan to upgrade in the near future? [1920x1080]

    6. Do you need any of these peripherals? [No.]

    7. Are you willing to try overclocking? [No]

    8. How can you pay? [Paypal/Cash]

    9. When are you purchasing? [ASAP]


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    #2
    Xenoronin
    Registered Users Posts: 1,307 ✭✭✭Xenoronin


    Hi! Please fill out the form below so we have a better idea of your requirements. You've covered most of it already but nice to get some more info.

    1. What is your budget? [€xxx]

    2. What will be the main purpose of the computer? [Gaming/Video editing/3D Modelling/HTPC/Internet] (If gaming include which games)

    3. Do you need a copy of Windows? [Yes/No]

    4. Can you use any parts from an old computer? [Hard drive/DVD Drive/Case/PSU/etc.] (If possible state brand and model of the parts to ensure compatibility)

    5. Do you need a monitor? [Yes/No]

    5a. If yes, what size do you need. [19'/20'/22'/24'/etc.]

    5b. If no, what resolution is your current monitor and do you plan to upgrade in the near future? [1920x1080/1440x900/etc.] [Yes/No]

    6. Do you need any of these peripherals? [Keyboard/Mouse/Wireless Card/Card Reader/Speakers/etc.]

    7. Are you willing to try overclocking? [Yes/No]

    8. How can you pay? [Bank Transfer/Credit Card/Laser]

    9. When are you purchasing? [In x days]

    10. If you need help building it, where are you based? [South Dublin City/Cork City/Kerry/etc.]


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    #3
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    Anybody? :-/


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    #4
    K.O.Kiki
    Registered Users Posts: 18,703 ✭✭✭✭K.O.Kiki


    PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

    CPU: Intel Core i3-6100 3.7GHz Dual-Core Processor (€118.89 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Motherboard: ASRock Z170M Pro4S Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard (€103.37 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Memory: Kingston Savage 8GB (1 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory (€40.03 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Storage: Kingston SSDNow V300 Series 120GB 2.5" Solid State Drive (€41.45 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Storage: Hitachi Travelstar 1TB 2.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive (€59.99 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Video Card: Asus GeForce GTX 970 4GB Video Card (€278.95 @ Mindfactory)
    Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case (€48.94 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Power Supply: XFX TS 430W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply (€46.84 @ Mindfactory)
    Total: €738.46
    Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
    Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-06-27 13:02 CEST+0200

    Wait for reviews & pricing of the AMD RX 480.

    Possible upgrade paths:
    CPU: Core i5-6400/i5-6500


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    #5
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    K.O.Kiki wrote: »
    PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

    CPU: Intel Core i3-6100 3.7GHz Dual-Core Processor (€118.89 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Motherboard: ASRock Z170M Pro4S Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard (€103.37 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Memory: Kingston Savage 8GB (1 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory (€40.03 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Storage: Kingston SSDNow V300 Series 120GB 2.5" Solid State Drive (€41.45 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Storage: Hitachi Travelstar 1TB 2.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive (€59.99 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Video Card: Asus GeForce GTX 970 4GB Video Card (€278.95 @ Mindfactory)
    Case: Cooler Master N200 MicroATX Mid Tower Case (€48.94 @ Amazon Deutschland)
    Power Supply: XFX TS 430W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply (€46.84 @ Mindfactory)
    Total: €738.46
    Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
    Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-06-27 13:02 CEST+0200

    Wait for reviews & pricing of the AMD RX 480.

    Possible upgrade paths:
    CPU: Core i5-6400/i5-6500

    Thanks, is the RX 480 the new graphics card that just came out or something?

    Also do you think any pre-made PC's could run the types of game I'd be looking to play? I don't have any experience building PC's :-/


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    #6
    Baggly
    Registered Users Posts: 35,024 ✭✭✭✭Baggly


    Hi Ken - what are your thoughts of laptop vs desktop. You mentioned in the OP you were used to laptops, so just wondering if you are sticking or switching?


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    #7
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    Pter wrote: »
    Hi Ken - what are your thoughts of laptop vs desktop. You mentioned in the OP you were used to laptops, so just wondering if you are sticking or switching?

    I have a laptop at the moment but as far as I know desktops are cheaper and more efficient for gaming? I never travel with my laptop anyway so it might as well be a desktop.


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    #8
    Baggly
    Registered Users Posts: 35,024 ✭✭✭✭Baggly


    True enough - ill let the guys here advise, as im not great on Desktops!


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    #9
    Xenoronin
    Registered Users Posts: 1,307 ✭✭✭Xenoronin


    No need for the Z170 motherboard as he isn't interested in overclocking.
    I'd bump the PSU up to 500W too.
    I think the WD Blue 1tb HDD is cheaper from mindfactory.
    2x4gb DDR4-2133 should be fine rather than 1x8gb.

    Definitely worth waiting for Wednesday for the RX 480.


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    #10
    K.O.Kiki
    Registered Users Posts: 18,703 ✭✭✭✭K.O.Kiki


    Xenoronin wrote: »
    No need for the Z170 motherboard as he isn't interested in overclocking.
    I'd bump the PSU up to 500W too.
    I think the WD Blue 1tb HDD is cheaper from mindfactory.
    2x4gb DDR4-2133 should be fine rather than 1x8gb.

    Definitely worth waiting for Wednesday for the RX 480.

    Counter-points:
    • i3-6100 benefits from faster RAM, which is only possible on Z170. It also provides better upgrade path for i5/i7 later on.
    • No need for 500W, GPUs are getting more efficient and the system will draw ~289W (~67% of 430W) at full load.
    • Dual-channel RAM doesn't provide a performance benefit over single-channel, so getting 1x8Gb now leaves 3 slots free.
    Ken Shamrock wrote: »
    Thanks, is the RX 480 the new graphics card that just came out or something?

    Also do you think any pre-made PC's could run the types of game I'd be looking to play? I don't have any experience building PC's :-/

    AMD RX 480 is a new graphics card which is being released this week. Looking to offer Nvidia GTX 970 performance for less cash.

    No pre-made PC would be able to match those specs, as they (a) also include a Windows license, and (b) need to pay someone to assemble it.

    It's not hard though, rent a "Build a PC" book from the library & look at youtube/website guides - it's very easy nowadays.


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    #11
    BloodBath
    Registered Users Posts: 10,299 ✭✭✭✭BloodBath


    Yep you have the budget for an i5 and an RX480 with a cheap motherboard if you build yourself which will be a perfect 1080p PC.

    You won't get anything near that spec pre built for the same money unless maybe it's second hand.


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    #12
    Xenoronin
    Registered Users Posts: 1,307 ✭✭✭Xenoronin


    K.O.Kiki wrote: »
    Counter-points:
    • i3-6100 benefits from faster RAM, which is only possible on Z170. It also provides better upgrade path for i5/i7 later on.
    • No need for 500W, GPUs are getting more efficient and the system will draw ~289W (~67% of 430W) at full load.
    • Dual-channel RAM doesn't provide a performance benefit over single-channel, so getting 1x8Gb now leaves 3 slots free.


    Fair enough. I have simply been assuming Dual-channel's benefits tbh (when you hear "double the bandwidth" you generally do). I would still go with it though if only because I'd never need to fill the other 3 slots, so having two smaller sticks with the extra bandwidth with no tangible downside... eh.

    I would still go with 500W if only due to manufacturer's specs for higher end graphics cards. Just allows more upgrade potential. Also some headroom for age related issues, and not exactly breaking the bank to get that extra wattage.

    It does, but only to the tune of 5-10 FPS usually. Ryse is a massive outlier there and smells of something weird (and very bad) going on with the game engine. Definitely a decision up to the OP though. Dropping to the other motherboards may open up enough budget for the i5 though.


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    #13
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    My brain is actually sore trying to understand what people are saying :pac:

    I guess when the new graphics card comes out everyone will have a clearer picture? So i'll re-visit it then and look for some help, thanks everyone who offered advice.


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    #14
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    Ok sorry let's just say hypothetically that I can't wait for the new graphics card. Would this build run DOW 3 and similar games ok?

    CPU: Intel Core i5 6400 quad core 2.70Ghz
    Motherboard: ASUS H110M-K with DDR4 and USB 3.0 support
    Memory: 8GB DDR4 2133Mhz
    Storage: 1 Terabyte 3.5" Sada Hard Disk
    Video Card: Nvidia GeForce GTX950 2GB
    Case: White Dragon Midi tower case and Intel original heatsink and fan.
    Power Supply: 500 Watt A/PFC 80+


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    #15
    wotzgoingon
    Registered Users Posts: 14,309 ✭✭✭✭wotzgoingon


    I'd wait for the new RX 480 rather than a 950.


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    #16
    Baggly
    Registered Users Posts: 35,024 ✭✭✭✭Baggly


    wotzgoingon wrote: »
    I'd wait for the new RX 480 rather than a 950.

    Ditto! I think you would be looking to upgrade the card in a year - whereas if you can wait (based on what has been said here) the card might do you for the next 3 years, at around the same cost?


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    #17
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    wotzgoingon wrote: »
    I'd wait for the new RX 480 rather than a 950.

    But would the 950 with that build be good enough to run new games?


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    #18
    Baggly
    Registered Users Posts: 35,024 ✭✭✭✭Baggly


    It will run TW: Warhammer no probs.

    DOW3 specs havent been launched, so cant tell yet.


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    #19
    Venom
    Registered Users Posts: 6,984 ✭✭✭Venom


    Ken Shamrock wrote: »
    But would the 950 with that build be good enough to run new games?

    Wait till Wednesday for the RX 480 release :)


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    #20
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    This is what a friend recommended, any expert opinions?

    HyperX FURY Black Series 8 GB 2133 MHz DDR4 CL14 DIMM Memory Module (Skylake Compatible)

    Gigabyte H110M-S2H Motherboard (Socket 1151, H110 Express, DDR4, S-ATA 600, Micro ATX

    Intel Core Skylake Processor i5-6500/3.2 GHz (Turbo Boost 3.6 GHz - 4 Core 6Mo Cache Socket 1151 (BX80662I56500)

    SanDisk SSD PLUS 120 GB Sata III 2.5-inch Internal SSD up to 520 MB/s

    Western Digital WD10EZEX 1TB SATA lll Desktop SATA Drive - Blue

    EVGA 100-B1-0500-KR - 500W 80 Plus Bronze Power Supply (100-B1-0500-KR)

    BitFenix BFC-NEO-100-KKWSR-RP - Neos ATX Tower Black/Red Window

    And then the GFX card will be the AMD POLARIS 480X 8GB


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    #21
    Baggly
    Registered Users Posts: 35,024 ✭✭✭✭Baggly


    What price is it coming in at?


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    #22
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    Pter wrote: »
    What price is it coming in at?

    If we assume the graphics card will be €250 then it comes in at €730


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    #23
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    So confused about what to do now, guess I'll wait a week or two to see how things pan out.

    Could anybody recommend anything monitor wise? I don't NEED one. But I guess it would be nice to have one. I'd go up to like €150 maybe more if it's really worth it.

    Also, last question, I'll be using Wi-fi can anyone recommend a good wireless thingy? and how does it work? Thanks!


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    #24
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    Anybody got advice on Monitor and Wireless? :-/


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    #25
    K.O.Kiki
    Registered Users Posts: 18,703 ✭✭✭✭K.O.Kiki


    Don't use wireless if you plan to play online.


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    #26
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    K.O.Kiki wrote: »
    Don't use wireless if you plan to play online.

    I've got no choice, I've been using it forever with no issues though.


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    #27
    MarkAnthony
    Closed Accounts Posts: 6,934 ✭✭✭MarkAnthony


    Wireless comes down to your own set up. I take it you're using the standard box that came from your ISP? If so any old wireless card will do, personally I'd use a USB dongle - you're talking €30.

    I'm afraid I make a point of not recommending monitors as they are a very personal thing. I'd suggest nothing bigger than 24" for 1080p, then it's just down to looking at reviews. I don't think it's worth going for the mad refresh rates (e.g. 144Hz) for a machine based on a Rx 480, they also tend to be more expensive.

    It's worth have a google at the different monitor types, TN v IPS etc. Also Youtube is great for getting info - Linus Tech tips is worth a search.


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    #28
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    MarkAnthony wrote: »
    Wireless comes down to your own set up. I take it you're using the standard box that came from your ISP? If so any old wireless card will do, personally I'd use a USB dongle - you're talking €30.

    I'm afraid I make a point of not recommending monitors as they are a very personal thing. I'd suggest nothing bigger than 24" for 1080p, then it's just down to looking at reviews. I don't think it's worth going for the mad refresh rates (e.g. 144Hz) for a machine based on a Rx 480, they also tend to be more expensive.

    It's worth have a google at the different monitor types, TN v IPS etc. Also Youtube is great for getting info - Linus Tech tips is worth a search.

    I'm just using whatever is in my laptop, so I assume I'll need to buy a new one for the PC, could you link me to a USB dongle? Thanks. Yeah a friend recommended a monitor and it's cheap as pickles too so i'll get that.


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    #29
    MarkAnthony
    Closed Accounts Posts: 6,934 ✭✭✭MarkAnthony


    Probably cheaper on amazon but...

    http://www.harveynorman.ie/computing/networking-and-connectivity/wi-fi-adapters/?gclid=CKWT996Z0s0CFQau2wodwOkDCA


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    #30
    Ken Shamrock
    Registered Users Posts: 3,192 ✭✭✭Ken Shamrock


    MarkAnthony wrote: »
    Probably cheaper on amazon but...

    http://www.harveynorman.ie/computing/networking-and-connectivity/wi-fi-adapters/?gclid=CKWT996Z0s0CFQau2wodwOkDCA

    So I just have to pop that into my CPU and it will connect to the Wi-Fi??


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    #31
    K.O.Kiki
    Registered Users Posts: 18,703 ✭✭✭✭K.O.Kiki


    You'd be better off buying some powerline adapters + RJ-45 cable, since your PC is stationary anyway.


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