So I got the PC I'm currently on in 2008. It wasn't that great then and it sure as hell isn't great now. Let's just say my thought process was "Ok, I have a university essay I need to quickly redo a huge chunk of because the motherboard of my 10 year old computer died a day before due date" (RIP you magnificent 98-running bastard). I have a (shitty but still paying) job now and a greater interest in PC gaming, so I'm interested in upgrading and giving the PC to my aunt and uncle for their new house. It's stable for doing regular tasks, but ask it to run something that has demands greater than Portal and it blows a gasket. Capturing/editing/rendering video (which I do as a hobby) also causes it to heave even with simpler videos using software that is several years old. Most of this PC's parts are ok for minimum requirements, but it's the graphics card (which I'm quite sure is integrated) that's holding me back. Even if it wasn't, it might be easier/cheaper to get a new one due to compatibility issues. Also it gives me an excuse to ditch Windows Vista.
So down to business. I've never built a PC before. I added an extra 2 GB of RAM to this machine but that was it. I've been reading several posts on The Escapist regarding PC builds and peeked on several sites linked, but it might be better to get something more personal since it is a bit overwhelming as my first time. Here's some info.
-My initial limit is $800 (not including tax. I can take that hit). I don't need Crysis 3 (or equal) to run at super-ultra-awesometacular, but something modest I can rely on for the next few years.
-My monitor, mouse, and speakers are fine and I doubt will have any issues in the near future. I have a spare keyboard too if this 15 year old one dies on me.
-The house uses wireless internet.
-I live just outside of Toronto, Ontario.
-I'm not at "granny" levels of computer illiteracy, but I'm not that confident either. I know the brands, acronyms, major part names, etc, but I'm not current on the specific models, quality, or compatibility.
-I don't have any experience in building a computer outside of minor upgrades years back. My uncle has a bit, but he's busy. I'm willing to learn and I most likely have at least most of the tools, but not confident on a tactile basis.
-Windows 7 is ideal unless someone can give me a reason otherwise.
-The stores nearest to me are Tiger Direct, Canada Computers, and Futureshop/Best Buy (hell, they're the same thing). Just throwing that out there for those that are near the Toronto area and can either say they have positive or negative experience with their store pre-builds (since the general Escapist attitude towards pre-builds seem to be negative on the basis of performance and cost) or guide me to a better place. No one needs to stalk the shops for me. Names of items will at least give me enough direction to compare with store stock.
-On a further note, I would prefer to pick from items in a store. Being my first time, I want to talk to people in person and have someone to go back to if something happens. I know I'll miss on some deals, but maybe next time. You can use online prices for the sake of this thread though.
To add on, here are some questions.
1. Is $800 too little to ask for a gaming PC with what I'm asking for?
2. I'm guessing I'll need some sort of add-on to allow the PC to connect to the internet? Most likely yes but best be sure for the sake of adding on to the cost since it's impossible for me to directly connect it directly.
3. How hard is for a newbie to put together a PC? I hear people say "it's just plugging in wires and screwing in screws" but it sounds more complicated than that. For sure I'll look up a guide, but there's a difference between reading something and doing it.
4. Any special environment required for assembly? I ask mostly because my 2nd floor bedroom has a carpet and I also have a cat. I already intend to vacuum, take off my socks, and close the door to keep the cat out, but is there anything else? Want to keep everything safe and I know static is a concern when handling electronic equipment. Only places in the house without carpet is the living room, kitchen, and bathroom (all are areas with traffic).
5. To keep the option open, what are the typical or honest fees for having someone in-store assemble a PC once you pick out the parts? Tiger Direct (at least according to this flyer) has $99 for assembly and setting up the OS (the latter I know I can do myself). That sounds a bit much.
6. Any other tips a newbie might not know?
Thank you for your help and patience. I understand how neurotic I might sound and I apologize. At the very least I can be pointed in the right direction and I'll be happy. I'll update this post once I've searched closer at store stock and/or need further guidance. No rush.
