Advice for first build

Venom1991

Venom1991

Venom1991

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4 Dec 2013
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42
Hello all.

I'm looking to build my first PC. I'm not a gamer. I play the odd free MMORPG or strategy game but rarely. I'm not going to be getting a graphics card. At least not anytime soon. I mainly watch tv on my computer, stream a lot of videos and use the internet a lot (lots of tabs open at once, lots of bookmarks/favourites, etc) and my current computer is starting to struggle. So I want a fast PC with good quality display, no video card. My budget's around £600 - £700 (including a new monitor). But I do want this PC to be noticeably good and last a long time, with the possibility of upgrading it in the future, even if with just a new mobo and CPU and more RAM.

I've narrowed the case down to one of these two. I prefer the cheaper one purely because of the black back and interior, but I'm wondering why the other costs more? Is there a feature I'm overlooking?

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-573-LL

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-371-LL

The monitors are all pretty similar. I'm leaning towards a more expensive one because it has a HDMI port which I imagine is better quality than VGA or DVI, and more compatible with more things. I was thinking something like this?

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MO-097-IY&groupid=17&catid=510

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MO-081-BQ&groupid=17&catid=510

I've half filled my current 500GB Seagate Barracuda HD so my choices when it comes to a hard drive are either, a 250GB SSD and hope I can manage. Or, preferably, a 128GB SSD with an additional HD. I'm not sure how to set that up but I'm sure I can find out. I'm leaning towards the 128GB SSD because of how much cheaper it is. And I would probably use my current HD rather than buy a new one. What's the difference between these first two and last three? Anyway, the ones I've considered are:

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-158-SA&groupid=701&catid=2104

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-161-SA&groupid=701&catid=2104

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-159-SA&groupid=701&catid=2104

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-396-WD&groupid=701&catid=14&subcat=1279

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-366-WD&groupid=701&catid=14&subcat=1279

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-379-WD&groupid=701&catid=14&subcat=1279

I know what power supply I want. It's only 380 Watts but I won't be gaming or overclocking so I'm sure it will be fine. (especially considering my current one is less than 200W I believe). It's the Antec 380W PSU, but I can't find a link for it.

Now for the interesting bits, that I really don't know that much about. For reasons that are too boring to say here I want a gigabyte motherboard. Now When it comes to CPU mobo and RAM I have no preference. This first motherboard here, I believe, to use the built in video ports you need a CPU with built in graphics,

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-440-GI

A CPU such as this one:

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-479-IN

Now I don't know how that combination would differ from another motherboard I've found which is cheaper, but with a more expensive CPU. I really haven't got a clue what the differences are here. Could I not use the built in video ports on this motherboard. Don't have a link but it's a,

"Gigabyte SKT-1155 B75M-D3H Motherboard"

CPU:

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-444-IN

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-418-IN

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-404-IN

As far as I can tell those last three CPU's are exactly the same, why the different prices? Just different sellers? So bearing in mind what I'll be using this PC for, what's a good CPU & mobo?

And lastly the RAM. Most RAM I've found seems to be very samey. I really don't know what makes good RAM. I want 8GB dual channel, and I believe 1600MHz will do me just fine. With that in mind I'm considering:

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-033-TG&groupid=701&catid=8&subcat=2429

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-137-KS

- http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-136-KS

Based purely on the brand and look of it, I'm leaning towards the first one.

Anyway that's my new PC. Any advice or tips or differences you spot between those components would be greatly appreciated. This is my first time trying something like this, and hopefully not my last!
 
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Much better :) Match of the Day has finished now, so I'll take a look. Do you need peripherals to go with this?
 
If you have that much to spend, do not buy a case for 80-100£.
You can get a good quality cases from just 40£, good looking ones to.
Bitfenix Merc Beta or Xigmatek Alfair for example.

Also as stated by Fulax, remove all links not going to OCuk store.
Nobody here will spec you a system from components found in another store, it is againt forum rules. I'll try to reply with some proper build when I get home from work, tomorrow morning.
 
No I have peripherals. As old as they are, if I do want new ones I'll buy them later.
For a similar reason as why I want to get a gigabyte mobo, I also am drawn towards intel CPUs and Lian-Li cases. I am reassured of their quality and feel, and especially look. But I will look at any you suggest.
 
Cases: Lian-Li seem to have a shed load of very similar looking cases with not particularly distinctive names. The more expensive one has more room for fans and hard drives.

SSD/HDD: The Samsung EVO is the latest iteration of their SSDs, and very popular round these parts. That's the one you want. The most cost-effective solution is to use a 120gb SSD for your OS and applications plus your current HDD for files.

PSU: 380W will be enough, no problem.

CPU/motherboard: The 'k' in e.g. 3570k designates an unlocked processor; that is, you can overclock it. Not relevant in your case, so not worth the extra money. Same with 'Z' motherboards e.g. Z87M-HD3. Z87 board can be overclocked, H87 and below cannot, and are therefore cheaper.
EDIT: The difference between a Retail and an OEM processor is that retail ones come boxed with a stock cooler and have longer warranty.

Unless you have any particular brand loyalty to Intel, you'd be better off with AMD with your requirements: better bang for buck.

RAM: Dual channel 8gb will be fine for you. Speed is something to consider, but also look at the CAS timings: the lower the better.

I have no idea about monitors.

------

For what you want, the budget is quite generous. So here's a spec that is optimised for absolute silence:

[Updated with Lian Li case, SATA III motherboard, and faster RAM]

YOUR BASKET
1 x Iiyama Prolite E2481HS-B1 24" Widescreen LED Super Slim Bezel Monitor - Black £131.99
1 x OcUK Tech Labs - Lian Li PC-7HX - Black - Noise Dampened £119.99
1 x AMD A8-5600K Black Edition 3.60GHz (Socket FM2) APU Trinity Quad Core Processor (AD560KWOHJBOX) £71.99
1 x Plextor M5S 128GB Solid State Drive - (PX-128M5S) £69.95
1 x Gigabyte F2A88XM-D3H AMD A88X Chipset (Socket FM2+) DDR3 Micro ATX Motherboard £59.99
1 x TeamGroup Vulcan ORANGE 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-19200C11 2400MHz Dual Channel Kit (TLAD38G2400HC11CDC01) £55.99
1 x BeQuiet Pure Power L8 500W '80 Plus Bronze' Power Supply - With 120mm Silent Wing Fan Built in £53.99
1 x Be Quiet! Shadow Rock Pro SR1 CPU Cooler £39.95
1 x Be Quiet! Silent Wings 2 Fan - 140mm £21.98
1 x Be Quiet! Silent Wings 2 Fan - 120mm £19.99
1 x Pioneer 24x Internal DVR-221LBK DVD Rewriter - OEM £17.99
Total : £663.79 (includes shipping : FREE).

 
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I think with a case, a solid feel and good looks are much more important than cost because of the length of time you can have it and the fact that you’re looking at it constantly. So even though they’re expensive I think I’ll stick with a Lian Li unless another catches my eye.

I’ll do that SSD HD combo then. I’ve looked at some comparisons and the 840 Pro seems to be a little better than the 840 Evo. However for my uses it won’t make a difference so I’ll go on price. What is the difference between these two though?

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-167-SA&groupid=701&catid=2104&subcat=1427

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-174-SA&groupid=1657&catid=2101&subcat=2103

Oh, that clears things up a bit. So what’s the difference between Intel’s Haswell, Sandy Bridge and Ivybridge chips? Such as these two?

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-479-IN

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-444-IN

May be a stupid question but can you only use an AMD CPU with an AMD motherboard and Intel with Intel board?

I was looking through the website trying to give you an example of an intel board and chip and an AMD board and chip at a similar price, and to ask for an explanation of the differences between them. But there are just so many and I really don’t know the difference between an intel 1155, 1150 of various chipsets, an AMD AM3, FM2 of various chipsets.

Could you please suggest, in addition to the AMD combo you’ve already added up there, an intel combo for me and explain the differences. Bearing in mind I’m happy to spend up to £250 on a motherboard and CPU.

I think I’ll get this RAM though, slightly lower CAS:

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-137-KS&groupid=701&catid=8&subcat=1517

Thank you so much for your suggestions so far. They’ve been very helpful and informative.
 
I spent extra on a good-looking case, too, so I can't fault you there ;)

The Pro is indeed slightly better (though I doubt you'd notice it outside benchmarks) but a good deal more expensive. So yes, the EVO is the one to get. The desktop kit includes a 2.5" to 3.5" converter. Desktop HDDs are 3.5" but SSDs are 2.5", and many older cases don't have any 2.5" drive bays. The Lian Li has one, though, so I'd say it isn't worth getting. There's a bit more info on the desktop kit in this review: http://reviews.cnet.com/hard-drives/samsung-840-evo-desktop/4505-3186_7-35823848.html

Haswell, Ivy Bridge, and Sandy Bridge are codenames for different generations of Intel processors, with Haswell being the newest. Haswell comes with some new power saving features, which will be good for you as your system will rarely be running at full load.

AMD CPU with AMD motherboard, Intel CPU with Intel motherboard.

I went with AMD in part because it is significantly cheaper than Intel, but also because AMD's A-series comes with better integrated graphics than anything Intel have to offer. As you won't be using a GPU, that makes sense.

Here's an Intel build for you. For ease of comparison, I've kept the case and RAM from above.

YOUR BASKET
1 x Intel Core i5-4430 3.00GHz (Haswell) Socket LGA1150 Processor - Retail £139.99
1 x Iiyama Prolite E2481HS-B1 24" Widescreen LED Super Slim Bezel Monitor - Black £131.99
1 x Gigabyte H87-HD3 Intel H87 (Socket 1150) DDR3 ATX Motherboard £80.99
1 x Corsair Carbide 330R Silent Mid Tower Case - Black £74.95
1 x Plextor M5S 128GB Solid State Drive - (PX-128M5S) £69.95
1 x TeamGroup Elite Black 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C11 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (TED38GM1600HC11DC01) £56.99
1 x Be Quiet! Shadow Rock Pro SR1 CPU Cooler £39.95
1 x BeQuiet Pure Power L8 400W '80 Plus Bronze' Power Supply - With 120mm Silent Wing Fan Built in £39.95
1 x Be Quiet! Silent Wings 2 Fan - 140mm £21.98
1 x Be Quiet! Silent Wings 2 Fan - 120mm £19.99
1 x Pioneer 24x Internal DVR-221LBK DVD Rewriter - OEM £17.99
Total : £717.64 (includes shipping : £19.10).

 
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Better mobo and faster ram to OC the Cpu for better graphics. Also included a cooler. A decent Psu, should you want to add a Gpu in the future.

YOUR BASKET
1 x Iiyama Prolite E2481HS-B1 24" Widescreen LED Super Slim Bezel Monitor - Black £131.99
1 x Toshiba SSD HDTS212EZSTA 9.5mm 128GB Solid State Hard Drive - Retail £79.99
1 x Corsair Carbide 330R Silent Mid Tower Case - Black £74.95
1 x AMD A8-5600K Black Edition 3.60GHz (Socket FM2) APU Trinity Quad Core Processor (AD560KWOHJBOX) £71.99
1 x Gigabyte F2A88XM-D3H AMD A88X Chipset (Socket FM2+) DDR3 Micro ATX Motherboard £59.99
1 x TeamGroup Vulcan ORANGE 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-19200C11 2400MHz Dual Channel Kit (TLAD38G2400HC11CDC01) £55.99
1 x BeQuiet Pure Power L8 500W '80 Plus Bronze' Power Supply - With 120mm Silent Wing Fan Built in £53.99
1 x Seagate Barracuda 7200RPM 1TB SATA 6Gb/s 64MB Cache - OEM (ST1000DM003) HDD £42.95
1 x Thermalright Macho 120 CPU Cooler £29.99
1 x OcUK 22x DVD±RW SATA ReWriter (Black) - OEM £11.99
Total : £636.73 (includes shipping : £19.10).

 
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Idleman said:
Better mobo and faster ram to OC the Cpu for better graphics. Also included a cooler. A decent Psu, should you want to add a Gpu in the future.

YOUR BASKET
1 x Iiyama Prolite E2481HS-B1 24" Widescreen LED Super Slim Bezel Monitor - Black £131.99
1 x Toshiba SSD HDTS212EZSTA 9.5mm 128GB Solid State Hard Drive - Retail £79.99
1 x Corsair Carbide 330R Silent Mid Tower Case - Black £74.95
1 x AMD A8-5600K Black Edition 3.60GHz (Socket FM2) APU Trinity Quad Core Processor (AD560KWOHJBOX) £71.99
1 x Gigabyte F2A88XM-D3H AMD A88X Chipset (Socket FM2+) DDR3 Micro ATX Motherboard £59.99
1 x TeamGroup Vulcan ORANGE 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 PC3-19200C11 2400MHz Dual Channel Kit (TLAD38G2400HC11CDC01) £55.99
1 x BeQuiet Pure Power L8 500W '80 Plus Bronze' Power Supply - With 120mm Silent Wing Fan Built in £53.99
1 x Seagate Barracuda 7200RPM 1TB SATA 6Gb/s 64MB Cache - OEM (ST1000DM003) HDD £42.95
1 x Thermalright Macho 120 CPU Cooler £29.99
1 x OcUK 22x DVD±RW SATA ReWriter (Black) - OEM £11.99
Total : £636.73 (includes shipping : £19.10).

Click to expand...

Yeah quite like that bud :)

Whoever suggested the Bitfenix Merc should be shot lol It has no USB3 ports and just a single fan, there are much better budget cases. This Corsair 330R is nice and will last, well worth the cash. The Bitfenix Ronin is worth a look if he wants a window to show the rig off.

The AMD APUs are pretty decent for an all round home PC, the A10K has a better IGP (Fast RAM helps btw) but I've used the A8K a lot as it's a good compromise. Do NOT use the A55 chipset mobos, they lack overclocking features but also SataIII so the SSD will be restricted, A75 is the minimum really to look at. The A88 chipset (FM2+) will support the new Kaveri APUs due in January I believe.

Maybe the OP could look at Gigabytes Sniper FM2+ mobo. It has very decent onboard audio and does look boss, I think I'd wait on Kaveri for it but the final choice is down to the OP. I look forward to hearing his thoughts and seeing what he settles on :)
 
Merc isn't a bad case, especially for first time build and it can be modded a bit. Also, I added another option which is Xigmatek Alfair. I had that case and it's a good choice for starters, looking good as well.
Anyway, I am posting only to point out: could you please refrain from saying stuff like I should be shot for suggesting this or that?
It makes you look like a 5 year old kid...
 
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Bart_Hunt said:
Merc isn't a bad case, especially for first time build and it can be modded a bit. Also, I added another option which is Xigmatek Alfair. I had that case and it's a good choice for starters, looking good as well.
Anyway, I am posting only to point out: could you please refrain from saying stuff like I should be shot for suggesting this or that?
It makes you look like a 5 year old kid...
Click to expand...

I would only spec the Merc in a very low budget build and only then as a last resort.
I agree, you should`nt be shot for recommending the Merc as a "good quality case". You should be taken around the back of the bike shed and given a "damned good thrashing". :p:D
 
Come around my place and you can give it a try.

As for the case, I didn't really look at no USB 3.0 on front panel, mostly because I don't ever use it. Said that, you could simply disregard my advice without adding idiotic comments.
So, lets not make any further offtops in this guys thread.
 
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No, I suffer from 'he didn't have sleep for 12 hours and then been at work for another 12' syndrome.
Blame DPD who didn't deliver my parcel yesterday, otherwise I would be bright as rain and ready to exchange small jokes like that with ease :)
Instead I was waiting whole damn day instead of going to bed, until DPD updated my delivery status to 'being late', 8 hours after sitting in local depot.
Anyway, apologies for snap.
Can we stop the offtop?
 
Hah! Thanks for the laugh guys. Love overreactions and miscommunications in comments.

So I don't know how that 'your basket' view, but I'm probably gunna get:

Monitor - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MO-097-IY
Case - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-573-LL
SSD - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-167-SA&groupid=701&catid=2104
RAM - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-137-KS&groupid=701&catid=8&subcat=1517
PSU - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-172-AN&groupid=701&catid=123&subcat=2462

I'll reuse my current 500GB hard drive. And my current optical drive. That comes to only £406. So looking at the mobo and cpu options you've given me to look at, I like the look of this one.

Mobo - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-464-GI
CPU - http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-328-AM

But considering I can spend a bit more, is there a better option for me?
 
Oh crap, I also forgot to say that I'll probably need to buy an operating system. I'm currently using windows 7 ultimate which I got off a friend. I know I'll be happy with windows 7 (probably just home premium). But it still seems annoyingly expensive. Any tips / suggestions?
 
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