Advice needed on a new desktop

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Arqus_Zed

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Aug 12, 2009
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Okay, so, after two laptops and an iMac, I've decided it's time for me to have a normal desktop PC again.

Now, my first desktop was put together by a cousin of mine back when stuff like "Pentium 4" was still a thing. Being pretty much overwhelmed by choice when it comes to computer hardware (intel - AMD? Nvidia - ATI?), I've decided to ask those a bit more experienced in the whole "build your own PC"-business.

Referring to you people, of course.

Here's the situation:

I need a decent desktop. I will be using it mainly for programming/scripting (Visual Studio), 3D modelling/sculpting (3ds Max, Zbrush), most of the stuff from the Adobe Suite, post production (Fusion) and a few SDKs/engines. Now, it used to be that this stuff primarely demanded a good processor and tons of RAM, however, more and more software is starting to use the VRAM from the graphics card as well. So, I'm gonna need a good processor, a fair amount of RAM and a decent graphics card.

Price range, I'm thinking 1000 - 1500 EUR (or $). I know, that's a lot of difference, let's say 1250 EUR, with a possible expansion to 1500 EUR if needed.

I already have a screen, HDMI-cable, speakers, mouse and keyboard - so no worries there. I just need the case and everything in it (and the power supply too, of course). Also, is it still like in the old days that buying every part seperately and then assembling it yourself is cheaper than just using one of those "create-a-computer" services you see in some shops? I've heard that isn't really the case anymore, but you still have the advantage that there are no unnecessary drivers installed.

Thanks in advance. If you need any more info, just ask.
 

Albino Boo

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Jun 14, 2010
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The build a pc services that you see doesn't always offer the best price for the the components and limits choice. In your case you need at least 8GB of ram but because you may need more later, you want a single 8GB stick as opposed to 2 4GB sticks. That said the money saved isn't the same as it was 15-20 years ago.

As rough guide you will want something like

i7 (the amds don't compete on number crunching with an i7)
gtx 770 4gb version
650w psu
8GB ram (in a single stick)
1 TB hard drive
120 gb ssd (for the o/s)

Win 7 pro x64 or later (win 7 home premium is limited to 16gb)

Thats roughly about 1250 euro.