First Gaming Rig

[SavageRico]

Thank you i will look at it on break and put up another build with the correct board to get feedback ^^b

[SavageRico]

Remove Windows from the list. -83$
1) Install Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 from MSDN ISO (running in trial mode without activation).
2) Do magic (Exact incantation skipped because... reasons)
3) Upgrade to Windows 10 for free. Your temporary activation will turn into permanent one.

Replace GTX 960 with GTX 970. +115$
You'll be able to run most of the games on Ultra in fullhd at really high fps.

And look again at your motherboard.

i have no idea how to do this MSDN ISO but i will look into it if it can save me money on a OS i dont really want

[UltimateAoe2]

Sir the best reason i can give is i am a noob on building ^^; I wasnt sure what slots or how many were needed and i noticed from your post it is micro lol... can you suggest another mid size for the same pric epoint? or if it being micro will hold me back?

Sorry! haha, I just looked at the rig and thats about it.
It's just a smaller motherboard that is intended for smaller cases, ^^b.

This is a similar model to the one I have (I have the MARK1) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...-561-_-Product
Should fit in the mid-tower well. Other than that, I think there's an option on pcpartpicker that lets you search for the regular motherboards (LGA 1150)

Like others are suggesting, Get a GTX 970 IF you have the funds for it. c:

[TouchandFeel]

As Noxifer pointed out, the main difference between MicroATX and ATX is size. Basic performance will be the same, but the space everything is crammed in as well as the number of things like expansion slots will most likely be smaller.

As this is your first build, go with ATX as the extra space will probably make it a bit easier for you to work with.

Most of the main hardware manufacturers make good stuff and the biggest difference in performance/quality will be between models, so find one you may be interested in and read lots of reviews on it, both user and professional.

As for the 8gb vs. 16gb debate, it depends.

If you are pretty much just using this rig to play FF14, then yeah 8gb is enough as long as you don't go crazy with multitasking. If you are going to be doing a lot of multitasking while gaming, then you may want more. Also keep in mind that we are starting to see games come out now that have 8gb under recommended specs , but can push past that fairly easily with just basic multitasking.

The reason I recommended upgrading to 16gb is because its cheap and gives you headroom that you may need, or not. That will depend on your own personal usage.
Me personally, I chew through 8gb easy, but I also run everything at QHD resolution or 4k, run max settings, do a lot of image editing and use a lot of power hungry memory hogs of software.
So is "8gb is enough" gospel like many people like to say? IMO, no. For many people it will be enough, but mileage will vary upon usage.

If the extra $40 is questionable to you, get the 8gb and monitor your memory usage while gaming and how you would normally use your computer. If you start getting close to 8gb of usage, then upgrade to more. Otherwise you can just stick with the 8gb.

However, if you do switch to a 970 instead of the 960 as others recommended (I agree, the 970 are best bang for your buck), then you can probably just stick with the 8gb as the extra 1.5gb+.5gb of dedicated video RAM will be a much bigger performance boost for gaming and will help minimize the need for more system RAM.

One more thing, when you select your CPU Heatsink, check to see if it comes with thermal paste. If not, make sure to get some or else you won't be able to use the heatsink.

Edit: Out of curiosity, why the ssd and separate hdd? Do you plan to install the OS on the ssd and games on the hdd? If so, is Steam your main PC gaming portal (no pun intended)?

[Raidenz]

hyper 212 evo for your processor. I haven't even looked at your parts list.....just get that cooler lol.

[TouchandFeel]

hyper 212 evo for your processor. I haven't even looked at your parts list.....just get that cooler lol.

That's actually a very good cooler for the price ($31 on Amazon), just make sure your case can fit it which shouldn't be a problem for most mid-atx cases or bigger.

[SavageRico]

hyper 212 evo for your processor. I haven't even looked at your parts list.....just get that cooler lol.

https://pcpartpicker.com/part/cooler...r-rr212e20pkr2

Is this the correct fan?

[SavageRico]

I want the 970 but i dont think ill be able to, (really nervous about not getting a copy of windows, never downloaded it before)

[Risvertasashi]

Hmm. Just FYI you've been letting people talk you into a bunch of upgrades over the course of your last few threads. If you're OK with that, fine, just be aware of what's happening.

Also, I only use stock coolers unless I want to overclock or if the CPU has a particular reputation for running hot (check its reviews). Stock coolers are fine, generally.

[TouchandFeel]

I don't believe we have talked him/her into "a bunch of upgrades".

We suggested a standard ATX sized mobo over a microATX, which is beneficial for a first time builder as it has things more spaced out and therefore is easier to put together.

We also suggested getting a 970 over a 960 as that will be a noticeable performance increase for not too much money. This one is actually an upgrade.

The memory suggestion was a tentative maybe, with a start with 8gb and get more if you end up needing it.

Lastly was the CPU heatsink, which you may get by "okay ...ish" with stock , but stock coolers are pretty much always louder, suffer from greater instances of fan failure and tend to be worse with case airflow set ups which cause greater heat build up inside the case which causes increased temps for all your components. Most cases have a forward to back airflow (front intake, back exhaust). Stock only tend to blow straight down onto the heatsink or pull up from it, flowing perpendicular to the established airflow of the case, hence the greater heat build up.
This one was also an upgrade.

That is only two upgrades that have been highly recommended and both for very good reason.

OP, if you can't afford the 970 right now, I would suggest waiting just a little bit to build your comp so you can afford it, it'll be much better in the long-term for you.
In the end it's a "you get what you pay for" situation and you just need to decide what you really want to end up with and how you can get that or something close to it.

Lastly, these are all only suggestions on what you should do, in the end just make the decision that you feel is right for you.