December 2012 Gaming PC Builds:
Quickly jump to…
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ($500): December 2012
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ($1000): December 2012
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ($1500): December 2012
- Gaming PC Build Ultimate ($2000): Special for December 2012
Introduction:
Welcome to the last set of gaming PC builds of the month for 2012! It has been an exciting year and we will be back for the 2013 edition of the Gaming PC Builds of the Month. This month I decided to include a little treat with the inclusion of a $2000 build just as an end of the year treat and due to a small request made.
Next year, Intel is supposed to release their new Haswell processors which are supposed to slash power consumption and are based on the current line of Intel’s Ivy bridge processors. Other then that keep checking back in the new year if you are wanting to build a new gaming PC or just keep up to date with the latest builds.
Monthly Gaming PC Build ( $528 ): December 2012
(Game at Smoothly with Medium – High settings at 1920X1080 resolutions)
Gaming PC Build Recipe:
All hardware is linked to Amazon.com – You Can also try Amazon.ca (CANADA) • Amazon.co.uk (UK) Newegg.com (US) • Newegg.ca (CANADA) Scorptec.com.au(AUS) pccasegear.com (AUS) to shop for these parts.Processor: Intel Core i3-3220 Dual-Core Processor 3.3 Ghz 3 MB Cache LGA 1155 – BX80637i33220 Price: $125.49 | Motherboard: MSI LGA1155/Intel B75/DDR3/SATA3 and USB 3.0/A and GbE/MicroATX Motherboard B75MA-E33 Price: $59.99 |
Graphics Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 650 Ti SSC 1024MB GDDR5 128bit, Dual Dual-Link DVI, Mini HDMI, Graphics Card (01G-P4-3652-KR) Graphics Cards 01G-P4-3652-KR Price: $143.99 | RAM: Kingston Technology HyperX 8 GB (2×4 GB Modules) 1600 MHz DDR3 Dual Channel Kit (PC3 12800) 240-Pin SDRAM KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX Price: $38.32 |
Hard Drive: Western Digital Caviar Blue 500 GB SATA III 7200 RPM 16 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive – WD5000AAKX Price: $59.99 | Power Supply: Antec VP-450 450 Watt Energy Star Certified Power Supply Price: $40.59 |
Computer Case: NZXT Technologies Source 210 Computer Case (Black) Price: $39.99 | Optical Drive: Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $17.99 |
Estimated Price: $ 528.15 |
Overview: $500 Gaming PC Build
The $500 build for December is actually priced at $528 as of December 1st, 2012. I have it a little higher this month to accommodate a few changes that if I were to build a $500 gaming PC this month, I would personally consider important. This month we have the addition of the new GTX 650 Ti graphics cards which took place of the previous Radeon 7770, which should warrant a considerable performance increase all while using much less power; as you can see below in the “$500 Build Performance” when compared to last months $500 build, there is a significant increase in performance when using the GTX 650 Ti.
As for the rest, we have included the Intel Core i3-3220 processor again as the $500 build processor, and get kept everything else except for the PC case the same. The NZXT PC case was chosen since its reputation precedes last months case and it was only about $3 more in December.
$500 Build Performance –
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i3-3220 processor and the GTX 650 Ti graphics card – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/5104887
Upgrade suggestions for the $500 Gaming PC Build:
The hardware below are all moderate increases from the hardware listed in the main $500 build and they can all be considered compatible with one another.
If you are ever stumped or have any questions as to the compatibility of any hardware please get in contact with me or leave a comment below and I will try to respond as soon as I can.
- Processor: Intel Core i5-3450 Quad-Core Processor 3.1 GHz 6 MB Cache LGA 1155 – BX80637I53450 ($195.95)
- Motherboard: *none (no reason for this budget at this point in time)
- Graphics Card (*New suggestion) HIS 7850 IceQ X 2 GB(256 bit) GDDR5 2X Mini DisplayPort HDMI DVI-I HDCP PCI Express X16 3.0 Graphics Card H785QN2G2M
- Hard Drive: Western Digital 1 TB Caviar Blue SATA III 7200 RPM 32 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive – WD10EALX
- RAM: none (8GB is plenty for this build however you could save some cash going to 4GB if you wished)
- Power Supply: Corsair Builder Series CX600 600 watt 80 Plus Certified Power Supply Compatible with Intel and AMD Platforms ATX 700 CMPSU-600CXV2
- Computer Case: GAMMA Classic Series ATX Mid Tower Interior Steel Chassis (Black)
- Optical Drive: None (no reason for an increase in optical driver performance)
Want other suggestions? Then leave a comment and I will try to get back to you as soon as I can.
Overview: The Gaming PC Hardware
Intel Core i3-3220 Dual-Core Processor 3.3 Ghz 3 MB Cache LGA 1155 – BX80637i33220 Price: $125.49
Intel i3-3220 | 2 cores | 3.3GHz clock speed | 4 threads |
Technical Details:
- L3 Cache
- Ivy Bridge
- Socket 1155
MSI LGA1155/Intel B75/DDR3/SATA3 and USB 3.0/A and GbE/MicroATX Motherboard B75MA-E33 Price: $59.99
Technical Details:
- CPU: LGA1155; Supports 3rd Generation Intel Core i7/i5/i3/Pentium/Celeron Processors
- Chipset: Intel B75
- Memory: 2x DDR3-1600/1333/1066 DIMM Slots, Dual Channel, Max Capacity?of?16 GB
- Slots: 1x PCI-Express 3.0 x16 Slot; 1x PCI-Express 2.0 x1 Slot; 1x PCI slot
- SATA: 1x SATA3 Port; 3x SATA2 Ports
- Ports: 8x USB 2.0 Ports (4 rear,?4via headers); 4x USB 3.0 Ports (2 rear,?2via headers); 1x PS/2 Mouse Port; 1x PS/2 Keyboard Port; 1x VGA Port;?1x HDMI Port; 1x RJ45 LAN Port; Audio I/O Jacks
- Power Connector: 1x 24pin ATX Power Connector, 1x 4pin ATX 12VPower Connector
EVGA GeForce GTX 650 Ti SSC 1024MB GDDR5 128bit, Dual Dual-Link DVI, Mini HDMI, Graphics Card (01G-P4-3652-KR) Graphics Cards 01G-P4-3652-KR Price: $143.99
Technical Details:
- Core Clock: 1071
- Memory Clock: 5400 MHz
- Cuda Cores: 768
- PCI-Express 3.0
- 1024MB GDDR5 128 Bit
- Microsoft DirectX 11, NVIDIA PhysX Technology, NVIDIA 3D Vision Ready, NVIDIA CUDA Technology, PCI-Express 3.0 Support, OpenGL 4.3 Support
- Nvidia SMX Engine, NVidia Adaptive Verticle Sync, Nvidia Surround, Support for Concurrent Displays, Nvidia PhysX, Nvidia 3D Vision Ready, Nvidia SLI Ready, Nvidia CUDA Technology
Kingston Technology HyperX 8 GB (2×4 GB Modules) 1600 MHz DDR3 Dual Channel Kit (PC3 12800) 240-Pin SDRAM KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX Price: $38.32
A well priced package of 8GB RAM, you cannot go wrong and this will probably be the maximum amount of RAM you will ever need for this $500 build, so no worries here. And if you ever want more in the future, you can get up to 16GB.
Technical Details
- 8GB Kit including two 4GB modules of 1600MHz Class 9 DDR3 Desktop Memory
- Utilizes HyperX module with faster latency timing for higher performance and speed
- Specifically designed and tested for compatibility in various makes and models of desktop computers
- From the industry leader in PC memory
- Non-ECC Low-Latency 240-pin unbuffered DIMM type
- Model: KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR3 SDRAM
- Memory Storage Capacity: 8.0 GB
- Memory Speed: 1600 MHz
- Warranty: Lifetime
Western Digital Caviar Blue 500 GB SATA III 7200 RPM 16 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive – WD5000AAKX Price: $59.99
Western Digital 500 GB Caviar Blue
I keep the $500 with a 500Gb hard drive, because I believe it is a nice sweet spot for a gamer looking to purchase a PC on a budget. 500Gb is plenty of space for many many a game. So without overshooting too much, I have again included the 500Gb Western Digital Caviar Blue hard drive.
Performance Details From Western Digital’s Website:
Product Details
- WD Caviar Blue hard drives have a multitude of features to deliver rock solid performance and ultra-cool and quiet operation.
- 3rd generation SATA interface for 6 GB/s maximum data transfer rates.
- WhisperDrive technology minimizes noise to levels near the threshold of human hearing.
- 500 GB capacity holds up to 100,000 digital photos, 125,000 MP3 files, and 60 hours of HD video.
- Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging
- 3rd generation SATA interface for 6 GB/s maximum data transfer rates
- 500 GB capacity holds up to 100,000 digital photos, 125,000 MP3 files, and 60 hours of HD video
- WD Caviar Blue hard drives have a multitude of features to deliver rock solid performance and ultra-cool and quiet operation
- WhisperDrive technology minimizes noise to levels near the threshold of human hearing
Antec VP-450 450 Watt Energy Star Certified Power Supply Price: $40.59
This Antec power supply proves a continuous power of 450W with many positive reviews and a price point of about $35 bucks for a PSU there was no reason not to include it. Also to note, this PSU has a continuous power rating of 450W, which means that it will always give out a continuous amount of 450 watts – in other words this power supply unit is a fantastic deal and will run all of the required hardware in this build perfectly.
Technical Details:
- 450W of continuous Power!
- Dual +12V rails ensure greater system stability
- ATX 12V version 2.3 compliant
- 120mm fan delivers quiet, reliable cooling
- Black exterior complements any system
NZXT Technologies Source 210 Computer Case (Black) Price $39.99
Technical Details:
- Bottom Mounted PSU ? Positioned for the most effective PSU ventilation
- Wire Management Support ? 20mm space for a neat and easy build
- Aluminum Textured Panel ? Accents the chassis for a clean, modern look and feel
- Dual 120mm Front Intake ? Takes advantage of front facing HDD bays for excellent airflow
- CASE TYPE Mid Tower Steel / FRONT PANEL MATERIAL Plastic / Aluminum-like finish /DIMENSIONS (W x H x D) 195mm x 440mm x 495.5mm
- COOLING SYSTEM FRONT, 2 X 120mmREAR, 1 X 120mm @ 1200rpm (included)TOP, 1 X 140mmBOTTOM, 1 x 120mm
- DRIVE BAYS 3 EXTERNAL 5.25″ DRIVE BAYS 8 INTERNAL 3.5″ HDD Drives / WEIGHT 6.5kg /MOTHERBOARD SUPPORT ATX, MICRO-ATX
- VGA Clearance Maximum 230mm w/ hard drive, 330mm w/o hard drive /CPU Heatsink Support 160mm / Wiring Space 20mm
Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $17.99
Technical Details
- Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive IHAS124-04 BLACK/BULK (Black)
- 6.7 x 5.8 x 1.6 inches ; 2 pounds
- Interface: SATA; Buffer Memory: 2 MB
Monthly Gaming PC Build ( $999): December 2012
Gaming PC Build Recipe:
Capability: Game with Extreme settings at 1920X1080 resolutions and even High Settings in some games at 2560×1600
All hardware is linked to Amazon.com – You Can also try Amazon.ca (CANADA) • Amazon.co.uk (UK) Newegg.com (US) • Newegg.ca (CANADA) Scorptec.com.au(AUS) pccasegear.com (AUS) to shop for these parts.Processor: Intel Core i5 3570K Processor 3.4 4 BX80637I53570K Price: $214.99 CPU Cooler (For OverClocking): Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler (RR-212E-20PK-R1) Price: $31.19 | Motherboard: AS Rock LGA1155 DDR3 SATA3 USB3.0 Quad CrossFireX and Quad SLI A GbE ATX Motherboard Z77 EXTREME4 $155.82 |
Graphics Card: Gigabyte AMD Radeon HD 7870 2 GB GDDR5 DVI-I/HDMI/2x Mini-Displayport PCI-Express 3.0 Graphic Card GV-R787OC-2GD Price: $239.99 | RAM: Kingston Technology HyperX 8 GB (2×4 GB Modules) 1600 MHz DDR3 Dual Channel Kit (PC3 12800) 240-Pin SDRAM KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX Price: $38.32 |
Hard Drive: Western Digital 1 TB WD Blue SATA III 7200 RPM 64 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive Price: $77.95 | Power Supply: Corsair Enthusiast Series TX 750 Watt ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze (TX750M) Price: $112.51 |
Computer Case: Cooler Master HAF 922 – Mid Tower Computer Case with USB 3.0 Ports (RC-922M-KKN3-GP) Price: $99.99 | Optical Drive: Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $17.99 |
Estimated Price: $999 |
Overview: Gaming PC Build ( $1000 )
Not too many notable changes for the $1000 build once again, but I did make a couple of changes to take in account for price changes. I have switched to a Gigabyte Radeon HD 7870 graphics card , added in the popular Cooler Master HAF 922 PC case and with an extra $30 or so to spend, I have now included the Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU cooler in both the $1000 and the $1500 build this month.
$1000 Build Performance –
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i5-3570K processor and the Radeon HD 7870 graphics card – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/4093212
Overview: The Gaming PC Hardware
Intel Core i5 3570K Processor 3.4 4 BX80637I53570K Price: $214.99
Like most processors this month, the Intel 3570K processor still holds strong as the processor of choice for Medium to High end gaming PC builds.
This is the current mainstream high end gamer processor. The Intel 35070K is included in both the higher end and mid range gaming pc builds of the month. This processor is easily overclocked and perfect for all hardware enthusiasts and gamers alike.
The Intel Core i5-3570K has four cores and an unlocked multiplier that allows you to freely adjust the frequency – overclocking made easy! Note: if you plan on overclocking please consider buying an after market CPU cooler such as the Cooler Master Evo 212 included in the Hardware Suggestions section for this $1000 build.
Intel Core i5-3570K | 4 cores | 3.4 GHz clock speed (3.8GHz Turbo) | LGA 1155 Socket |
Product Details: *From Intel
Essentials | |
Status
|
Launched |
Launch Date
|
Q2’12 |
Processor Number
|
i5-3570K |
# of Cores
|
4 |
# of Threads
|
4 |
Clock Speed
|
3.4 GHz |
Max Turbo Frequency
|
3.8 GHz |
Intel® Smart Cache
|
6 MB |
Bus/Core Ratio
|
34 |
DMI
|
5 GT/s |
Instruction Set
|
64-bit |
Instruction Set Extensions
|
SSE4.1/4.2, AVX |
Embedded Options Available
|
No |
Lithography
|
22 nm |
Max TDP
|
77 W |
Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler (RR-212E-20PK-R1) Price: $31.19
- Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler
I have used the Cooler Master 212 EVO CPU cooler for months because it is still a basic well rated and performance CPU cooler that is priced very cheap when compared to others of its caliber. Yet another month with a slight price drop in the Cooler Master hyper 212 Evo CPU cooler!
Product Details:
CPU Socket | Intel Socket:LGA 2011 / 1366 / 1156 / 1155 / 775 *AMD Socket:FM1 / AM3+ / AM3 / AM2+ / AM2 |
CPU Support | Intel:Core™ i7 Extreme / Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium / CeleronAMD:FX-Series / A-Series / Phenom™ II X4 / Phenom™ II X3 / Phenom™ II X2 / Phenom™ X4 / Phenom™ X3 / Athlon™ II X4 / Athlon™ II X3 / Athlon™ II X2 / Athlon™ X2 / Athlon™ / Sempron™ |
Dimension | 120 x 80 x 159 mm (4.7 x 3.1 x 6.3 in) |
Heat Sink Dimensions | 116 x 51 x 159 mm (4.6 x 2.0 x 6.3 in) |
Heat Sink Material | 4 Direct Contact Heat Pipes / Aluminum Fins |
Heat Sink Weight | 465g (1.03 lb) |
Heat Pipes Dimensions | ø6mm |
Fan Dimension | 120 x 120 x 25 mm (4.7 x 4.7 x 1 in) |
Fan Speed | 600 – 2,000 RPM (PWM) ± 10%600 – 1,600 RPM (PWM) ± 10% (EU Version) |
Fan Airflow | 24.9 – 82.9 CFM ± 10%24.9 – 66.3 CFM ± 10% (EU Version) |
Fan Air Pressure | 0.3 – 2.7mm H2O ± 10%0.3 – 1.7mm H2O ± 10% (EU Version) |
Fan Life Expectancy | 40,000hrs |
Fan Noise Level (dB-A) | 9 – 36 dBA9 – 31 dBA (EU Version) |
Bearing Type | Long Life Sleeve Bearing |
Connector | 4-Pin |
Fan Rated Voltage | 12 VDC |
Fan Rated Current | 0.22A0.19A (EU Version) |
Power Consumption | 2.64W2.28W (EU Version) |
Fan Weight | 104g (0.23 lb) |
- Well-balanced cooling performance provides fin optimizations with perfect balance between high and low speed operations.
- Wide-range PWM fan with unique wave-shaped blade design for excellent airflow.
- 4 Direct Contact heat pipes with the patented (Continuous Direct Contact) technology – creating a perfect, sleek surface for heat conduction.
- Versatile all-in-one mounting solution supporting the latest Intel LGA 1366 /1155 and AMD FM1 / AM3+. Includes the LGA 2011 mounting bracket.
AS Rock LGA1155 DDR3 SATA3 USB3.0 Quad CrossFireX and Quad SLI A GbE ATX Motherboard Z77 EXTREME4 Price: $155.82
Interested in reading a nice review – Check out the overclockersclub review
Product Details:
- Premium Gold Caps
- Digi Power Design, 8 + 4 Power Phase Design
- Supports Dual Channel DDR3 2800+(OC)
- 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 Slots, Supports AMD Quad CrossFireX™, CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA®Quad SLI™, SLI™
- PCIE Gigabit LAN
- Supports Intel® HD Graphics with Built-in Visuals
- Multi VGA Output options : DVI-D, D-Sub, HDMI
- Combo Cooler Option (C.C.O.)
- 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection (Realtek ALC898 Audio Codec), Supports THX TruStudio™
- Supports ASRock XFast RAM, XFast LAN, XFast USB, OMG, Internet Flash, No-K OC, Dehumidifier, UEFI System Browser
- Supports Intel® Smart Connect, Intel® Rapid Start, Lucid Virtu Universal MVP
- Free Bundle : CyberLink MediaEspresso 6.5 Trial, ASRock MAGIX Multimedia Suite
Gigabyte AMD Radeon HD 7870 2 GB GDDR5 DVI-I/HDMI/2x Mini-Displayport PCI-Express 3.0 Graphic Card GV-R787OC-2GD Price: $239.99
You will be able to play most if not all games at max settings at 1920×1080 resolutions and will even play well if you have a super high resolution monitor at 2560×1600.
Technical Details:
- Ultra Durable VGA Components – GPU Temperature 5%-10% Down – Overclocing Capability 10%-30% Up – Power Switching Loss 10%-30% Down
- WINDFORCE 3X Anti-Turbulence Cooling with New Triangle Cool Technology
- Gold Plated HDMI for optimum signal transfer between connections
- Features DVI-I/HDMI/2x mini-Display port outputs with HDCP protection
- Supports AMD Eyefinity/Eyespeed/CrossFire/Avivo HD Technologies
- Minimum Recommended Power Supply 500W or greater with 2x 6-pin VGA power connectors
Kingston Technology HyperX 8 GB (2×4 GB Modules) 1600 MHz DDR3 Dual Channel Kit (PC3 12800) 240-Pin SDRAM KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX Price: $38.32
- The same as used in the $500 build both this and last month, but 8GB is a good fit for the $1000 build as well. This package of Kingston 8GB RAM still holds this spot because it is still at the exact same price as last month – holding at $39.99. Last month his package was chosen for its strong Kingston brand name as well as the most affordable price point for a package of 8GB RAM – so here it is again!
- Technical Details
-
- 8GB Kit including two 4GB modules of 1600MHz Class 9 DDR3 Desktop Memory
- Utilizes HyperX module with faster latency timing for higher performance and speed
- Specifically designed and tested for compatibility in various makes and models of desktop computers
- From the industry leader in PC memory
- Non-ECC Low-Latency 240-pin unbuffered DIMM type
- Model: KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR3 SDRAM
- Memory Storage Capacity: 8.0 GB
- Memory Speed: 1600 MHz
- Warranty: Lifetime
Western Digital 1 TB WD Blue SATA III 7200 RPM 64 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive Price: $77.95
Product Details
- WD Caviar Blue hard drives have a multitude of features to deliver rock solid performance and ultra-cool and quiet operation.
- 3rd generation SATA interface for 6 GB/s maximum data transfer rates.
- WhisperDrive technology minimizes noise to levels near the threshold of human hearing.
- 1 TB capacity holds up to 200,000 digital photos, 250,000 MP3 files, and 120 hours of HD video.
- Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging
Corsair Enthusiast Series TX 750 Watt ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze (TX750M) Price: $112.51
Product Details:
- 80PLUS Bronze certified, delivering up to 85% energy efficiency at real world load conditions.
- A dedicated single +12V rail offers maximum compatibility with the latest components.
- Exceptionally low noise level by varying fan speed in response to temperature.
- Over-voltage and over-current protection, under-voltage protection, and short circuit protection provide maximum safety to your critical systems
- Universal AC input from 90~264V. No more hassle of flipping that tiny red switch to select the voltage input!
- A five year warranty and lifetime access to Corsair’s legendary technical support and customer service.
- An ultra-quiet double ball-bearing fan delivers excellent airflow
- The latest ATX12V v2.31 and EPS 2.92 standards and it is backward compatible with ATX12V 2.2 and ATX12V 2.01 systems.
Cooler Master HAF 922 – Mid Tower Computer Case with USB 3.0 Ports (RC-922M-KKN3-GP) Price: $99.99
Technical Details
- Extreme cooling performance that support up to seven cooling fans top to bottom as well as accommodates three 200 x 30mm fans at minimized noise
- CPU Cooler retaintion hole cutout design for quick CPU Cooler installation.
- LED ON/OFF switch for front 200x30mm fan. Black interior
- Patented button design for easy maintenance of 5.25¿ drive devices.
- I/O panel offers two USB 3.0 ports, one 3.5 mm headphone input, one 3.5 mm microphone input, and one eSATA port
Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $17.99
Technical Details
- Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive IHAS124-04 BLACK/BULK (Black)
- 6.7 x 5.8 x 1.6 inches ; 2 pounds
- Interface: SATA; Buffer Memory: 2 MB
$1000 Gaming PC Build Additions / Swap Suggestions
Note: Prices are in additional $ amounts… These additions are to act as additional or supplemental hardware the the Gaming PC Build Recipe Above
|
Add a Blu-Ray Optical Drive: LG Electronics WH12LS30 12X Blu-ray SATA Writer Drive = + $79 – Perhaps you are a movie buff? or need to Backup Media etc. Then swap this for the optical drive and you can add blu-ray burn / read functionality! |
|
|
Additions / Part Swaps Overview
If you are thinking of upgrading your system beyond the basic $1000 build, then the recommendations above may be for you. If you have any further questions regarding upgrades or suggestions please leave a comment below the article.
Monthly Gaming PC Build ( $1431 ): December 2012
Gaming PC Build Recipe:
Game with Extreme settings at resolutions of 2560×1600 – How perfect is that!?
All hardware is linked to Amazon.com – You Can also try Amazon.ca (CANADA) • Amazon.co.uk (UK) Newegg.com (US) • Newegg.ca (CANADA) Scorptec.com.au(AUS) pccasegear.com (AUS) to shop for these parts.Processor: Intel Core i5-3570K Quad-Core Processor 3.4 GHz 4 Core LGA 1155 – BX80637I53570K Price: $214.99 CPU Cooler (For OverClocking): Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler (RR-212E-20PK-R1) Price: $31.19 | Motherboard: AS Rock LGA1155 DDR3 SATA3 USB3.0 Quad CrossFireX and Quad SLI A GbE ATX Motherboard Z77 EXTREME4 Price: $155.82 |
Graphics Card: Diamond AMD Radeon HD 7970 PCIE 3G GDDR5 Video Graphics Card 7970PE53G Price: $414.99 | RAM: Corsair Vengeance 16 GB (2x8GB) DDR3 1600MHz PC3 240 Pin DIMM Memory CMZ16GX3M2A1600C10 Price: $67.99 |
Hard Drive: Western Digital 1 TB WD Blue SATA III 7200 RPM 64 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive Price: $77.95 SSD Hard Drive: Mushkin Chronos Deluxe 240 GB SATA 6.0 Gb-s 2.5-Inch Solid State Drive (MKNSSDCR240GB-DX) Price: $179.99 | Power Supply: Corsair Enthusiast Series TX 850 Watt ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze (TX850M) Price: $130.32 |
Computer Case: Rosewill White Edition Gaming ATX Full Tower Case for Computer THOR V2-W Price: $139.95 | Optical Drive: Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $17.99 |
Estimated Price: $1431 |
Overview: Gaming PC Build ( $1500 )
The least changed build of the month is the $1500 one. There have been no notable hardware releases in the higher end of hardware and prices have been pretty stable. I did however switch the case up to a Corsair Carbide Series White 500R
$1500 Build Performance –
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i5-3570K processor and the Radeon HD 7970 graphics card – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/4792768
Overview: The Gaming PC Hardware
Intel Core i5-3570K Quad-Core Processor 3.4 GHz 4 Core LGA 1155 – BX80637I53570K Price: $214.99
Intel Core i5 3570K Processor
It has been said that the Intel 3570K is the best price per core performance gaming cpu with the ability to overclock unsurpassed in this range. Want to read some benchmarks on the Intel 3570K? – Then check out some of techradars benchmarks.
I have included an aftermarket CPU cooler – the Cooler Master EVO, which will make overclocking a simple feat while keeping temperatures under control. I dare you to try overclocking up to an easy 4.8GHz!
Intel Core i5-3570K | 4 cores | 3.4 GHz clock speed (3.8GHz Turbo) | LGA 1155 Socket |
Product Details: *From Intel
Essentials | |
Status | Launched |
Launch Date | Q2’12 |
Processor Number | i5-3570K |
# of Cores | 4 |
# of Threads | 4 |
Clock Speed | 3.4 GHz |
Max Turbo Frequency | 3.8 GHz |
Intel® Smart Cache | 6 MB |
Bus/Core Ratio | 34 |
DMI | 5 GT/s |
Instruction Set | 64-bit |
Instruction Set Extensions | SSE4.1/4.2, AVX |
Embedded Options Available
|
No |
Lithography | 22 nm |
Max TDP | 77 W |
Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler (RR-212E-20PK-R1) Price: $31.19
Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler
I have used the Cooler Master 212 EVO CPU cooler for months because it is still a basic well rated and performance CPU cooler that is priced very cheap when compared to others of its caliber. Yet another month with a slight price drop in the Cooler Master hyper 212 Evo CPU cooler!
Product Details:
CPU Socket | Intel Socket:LGA 2011 / 1366 / 1156 / 1155 / 775 *AMD Socket:FM1 / AM3+ / AM3 / AM2+ / AM2 |
CPU Support | Intel:Core™ i7 Extreme / Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium / CeleronAMD:FX-Series / A-Series / Phenom™ II X4 / Phenom™ II X3 / Phenom™ II X2 / Phenom™ X4 / Phenom™ X3 / Athlon™ II X4 / Athlon™ II X3 / Athlon™ II X2 / Athlon™ X2 / Athlon™ / Sempron™ |
Dimension | 120 x 80 x 159 mm (4.7 x 3.1 x 6.3 in) |
Heat Sink Dimensions | 116 x 51 x 159 mm (4.6 x 2.0 x 6.3 in) |
Heat Sink Material | 4 Direct Contact Heat Pipes / Aluminum Fins |
Heat Sink Weight | 465g (1.03 lb) |
Heat Pipes Dimensions | ø6mm |
Fan Dimension | 120 x 120 x 25 mm (4.7 x 4.7 x 1 in) |
Fan Speed | 600 – 2,000 RPM (PWM) ± 10%600 – 1,600 RPM (PWM) ± 10% (EU Version) |
Fan Airflow | 24.9 – 82.9 CFM ± 10%24.9 – 66.3 CFM ± 10% (EU Version) |
Fan Air Pressure | 0.3 – 2.7mm H2O ± 10%0.3 – 1.7mm H2O ± 10% (EU Version) |
Fan Life Expectancy | 40,000hrs |
Fan Noise Level (dB-A) | 9 – 36 dBA9 – 31 dBA (EU Version) |
Bearing Type | Long Life Sleeve Bearing |
Connector | 4-Pin |
Fan Rated Voltage | 12 VDC |
Fan Rated Current | 0.22A0.19A (EU Version) |
Power Consumption | 2.64W2.28W (EU Version) |
Fan Weight | 104g (0.23 lb) |
- Well-balanced cooling performance provides fin optimizations with perfect balance between high and low speed operations.
- Wide-range PWM fan with unique wave-shaped blade design for excellent airflow.
- 4 Direct Contact heat pipes with the patented (Continuous Direct Contact) technology – creating a perfect, sleek surface for heat conduction.
- Versatile all-in-one mounting solution supporting the latest Intel LGA 1366 /1155 and AMD FM1 / AM3+. Includes the LGA 2011 mounting bracket.
AS Rock LGA1155 DDR3 SATA3 USB3.0 Quad CrossFireX and Quad SLI A GbE ATX Motherboard Z77 EXTREME4 Price: $155.82
Interested in reading a nice review – Check out the overclockersclub review
Product Details:
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- Premium Gold Caps
- Digi Power Design, 8 + 4 Power Phase Design
- Supports Dual Channel DDR3 2800+(OC)
- 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 Slots, Supports AMD Quad CrossFireX™, CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA®Quad SLI™, SLI™
- PCIE Gigabit LAN
- Supports Intel® HD Graphics with Built-in Visuals
- Multi VGA Output options : DVI-D, D-Sub, HDMI
- Combo Cooler Option (C.C.O.)
- 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection (Realtek ALC898 Audio Codec), Supports THX TruStudio™
- Supports ASRock XFast RAM, XFast LAN, XFast USB, OMG, Internet Flash, No-K OC, Dehumidifier, UEFI System Browser
- Supports Intel® Smart Connect, Intel® Rapid Start, Lucid Virtu Universal MVP
- Free Bundle : CyberLink MediaEspresso 6.5 Trial, ASRock MAGIX Multimedia Suite
Diamond AMD Radeon HD 7970 PCIE 3G GDDR5 Video Graphics Card 7970PE53G Price: $414.99
Product Details:
- Play the latest PC games supporting DirectX 11.1
- Work and Productivity Application
- Video playback and editing
- HD video playback (Blu-ray and HD DVD) and editing
- Everyday home computing applications with Windows7
- GCN Architecture
Corsair Vengeance 16 GB (2x8GB) DDR3 1600MHz PC3 240 Pin DIMM Memory CMZ16GX3M2A1600C10 Price: $67.99
Product Features:
- 16GB (2x8GB) DDR3 for AMD and Intel Dual Channel processors
- Speed: 1600MHz
- Timing: 10-10-10-27
- Pin Out: 240 Pin
- Voltage: 1.5V
- Density: 16GB (2x8GB Module)
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Western Digital 1 TB WD Blue SATA III 7200 RPM 64 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive Price: $77.95
Performance Details:
- WD Blue hard drives have a multitude of features including third generation SATA interface with 6 GB/s transfer rate, plus rock solid performance and ultra-cool and quiet operation.
- WhisperDrive technology minimizes noise to levels near the threshold of human hearing.
- SoftSeek technology streamlines read/write seeking algorithms, resulting in more efficient operation.
- 1 TB capacity holds up to 200,000 digital photos, 250,000 MP3 files, and 120 hours of HD video.
- 2 year limited warranty.
Mushkin Chronos Deluxe 240 GB SATA 6.0 Gb-s 2.5-Inch Solid State Drive (MKNSSDCR240GB-DX) Price: $179.99
Technical Details
- Max Sequential Read Up to 560MB/s and Max Sequential Write Up to 520MB/s
- Up to 90,000 IOPS Random 4KB Write
- SATA 3.0 (6Gb/s) interface (backwards compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and 1.5Gb/s)
- TRIM support (OS/driver support required)
- 3.5″ desktop adapter bracket included
- Access Time <0.1ms
- Built-in BCH ECC (Up to 55 bits correctable per 512 byte sector)
- High speed MLC NAND
Corsair Enthusiast Series TX 850 Watt ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze (TX850M) Price: $130.32
Product Details:
- 80PLUS Bronze certified, delivering up to 85% energy efficiency at real world load conditions.
- A dedicated single +12V rail offers maximum compatibility with the latest components.
- An ultra-quiet double ball-bearing fan delivers excellent airflow at an exceptionally low noise level by varying fan speed in response to temperature.
- Over-voltage and over-current protection,
- Universal AC input from 90~264V. No more hassle of flipping that tiny red switch to select the voltage input!
- A five year warranty and lifetime access to Corsair’s legendary technical support and customer service.
- The latest ATX12V v2.31 and EPS 2.92 standards and it is backward compatible with ATX12V 2.2 and ATX12V 2.01 systems.
- Under-voltage protection, and short circuit protection provide maximum safety to your critical system components.
- Brand Name: Corsair
- Model: CP-9020003-NA
Rosewill White Edition Gaming ATX Full Tower Case for Computer THOR V2-WPrice: $139.95
Product Details
Named after a powerful but arrogant warrior, the Rosewill THOR V2-W gaming ATX full tower computer case has a stately aesthetics and functional design for enthusiasts and hard-core gamers. Spacious interior with E-ATX / XL-ATX motherboard support, tremendous air flow and rock solid construction are the main appealing features. Also included are other advanced features such as advanced cable management, screw-less design for 3.5-Inch/5.25-Inch drives, bottom-placed PSU design with dust filter, water cooling support making the Rosewill THOR V2-W a second to none choice for your next PC. Two USB 3.0 connectors and one eSATA port at top of the chassis enable blazing fast data exchange with the latest digital devices.
Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $`17.99
Technical Details
- Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive IHAS124-04 BLACK/BULK (Black)
- 6.7 x 5.8 x 1.6 inches ; 2 pounds
- Interface: SATA; Buffer Memory: 2 MB
$1500 Gaming PC Build Additions / Swap Suggestions
Note: Prices are in additional $ amounts – These additions are to act as supplemental or swaps for the hardware in the $1000-$1500 Gaming PC Build recipe above
Swap the Processor for an i7 –
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Double the Graphics Power w/ Crossfire and add one more:
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Larger SSD: |
Overview: Additions / Part Swaps
If you have some extra cash to spend or want ideas of what else you could add /swap in place of what is already included in the $1500 gaming PC build, then you may be interest in the above ideas. The Intel i7-3770K may be of interest to someone wanting to splurge a tad more on an i7 processor; this may be good for someone that does much more than gaming. Or perhaps you want to really get the most graphics power you can, then perhaps going CrossFire and purchasing two 7970 cards (great idea for future upgrade perhaps?). Or, perhaps you want to go with just a Solid State Drive so purchasing a 512GB SSD would make sense as to utilize its as a main drive.
(A $2000 PC Build as an additional special build treat for December!)
Ultimate Gaming PC Build ( $2000 ): December 2012
Gaming PC Build Recipe:
Game with Extreme settings at resolutions of 2560×1600 and HIGHER – How perfect is that!?
All hardware is linked to Amazon.com – You Can also try Amazon.ca (CANADA) • Amazon.co.uk (UK) Newegg.com (US) • Newegg.ca (CANADA) Scorptec.com.au(AUS) pccasegear.com (AUS) to shop for these parts.
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Estimated Price: $2007 |
Overview: Ultimate Gaming PC Build ( $2000 )
The first month ever to include a $2000 build of which I am assigning the Ultimate Build title. I thought that as a special end of the year treat I would include this $2000 build for anyone wanting to go all out. What you may notice is that allot of the hardware used is similar to that of the other builds and this is only because I like to recommend hardware that I would personally use, so there is not much point in switching up things like hard drives or RAM if there is no reason to increase their sizes etc.
First off, I have included an Intel i7-3770K. Some may debate me on why I would do this in a gaming PC build – to which I would respond – why wouldn’t you if you are spending $2000 plus on a PC. Some may still opt for an Intel i5 3570K and pump the rest of the cash into perhaps a GTX 690 (priced at about a $1000), but in the end you are probably going to geta nice solid over all performance out of two already great graphics card – The Radeon 7970 and an i7 3770K.
All I had in mind when thinking of what I would put into a $2000 build was what would create the most powerful PC possible – not how can I afford the most expensive PC case, how much can I spend on higher inflated SSD’s, or even splurging on 32Gb of memory, which would warrant no performance gains in comparison.
Have questions on a specific peice of hardware that you would change or add, then please leave a comment below.
$2000 Build Performance –
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i7-3770K processor and the (2X) Radeon HD 7970 graphics cards – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/4303530
Concluding December 2012’s Gaming PC Builds:
A great end to the 2012 year of monthly gaming pc builds and I look forward to continuing them throughout the 2013 year, so please keep checking back.
I hope you enjoyed what has been done so far and I hope to further increase the site in any way possible, so if you have any input on any types of articles or features you would like to see on Newb Computer Build, then please let me know!!
Happy holidays,
Corey @ Newb Computer Build
December 2012’s Gaming PC Hardware Overview Video:
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