February 2013 Gaming PC Builds:
Quickly jump to…
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ( $500 ): February 2013
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ( $1000 ): February 2013
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ( $1500 ): February 2013
Welcome to the 2013 edition of the Gaming PC Builds of the Month here at Newb Computer Build.
The $1500 build is as solid as ever with some very nice price decreases this month. Still rocking the Radeon HD 7970, a 250GB Samsung SSD and it even includes the very new Azza Genesis 9000W PC case; a very nice full tower spiffy looking case I might add!
The $1000 build has had an increase in graphics with the inclusion of a Radeon HD 7950 3GB BOOST edition card and a switch to an AsRock EXTREME6 motherboard.
This month the $500 build has stayed static as it has for the most part of the last few months. This is because I feel there has been no notable substitutes for any of its hardware constituents. This is good news as the budget $500 build has stood the test of time. Now lets get into the builds –
(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: $119.99 | 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 1024MB GDDR5 128bit, Dual Dual-Link DVI, Mini HDMI, Graphics Card (01G-P4-3650-KR) Graphics Cards 01G-P4-3650-KR Price: $139.99 | RAM: Kingston Technology HyperX 8 GB (2×4 GB Modules) 1600 MHz DDR3 Dual Channel Kit (PC3 12800) 240-Pin SDRAM KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX Price: $41.98 |
| Hard Drive: Western Digital Caviar Blue 500 GB SATA III 7200 RPM 16 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive – WD5000AAKX Price: $60.28 | Power Supply: Antec VP-450 450 Watt Energy Star Certified Power Supply Price: $38.24 |
| Computer Case: GAMMA Classic Series ATX Mid Tower Interior Steel Chassis (Black) Price: $35.75 | Optical Drive: Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $16.99 |
| Estimated Price: $ 523 |
Overview: $500 Gaming PC Build
The $500 build has stood strong few a few months now and I have literally changed nothing in it this month. Everything included is what I could consider a solid budget build and will be fully capable of playing most games relatively well.
The only thing I keep regretting is pushing the price point of the $500 build over the $500 budget – as you can see at the time of writing this article the price of this build in its entirety is $523; albeit well worth it as I would not skimp on any of the hardware included for a solid budget gaming build.
You will be able to play most of all games and get pretty decent performance playing Medium to Higher settings at a resolution of 1920X1080.
$500 Build Performance –
(*note: i do try to make these benchmark results as close to stock speeds as possible, although they may not always be 100% accurate. If you like you make also search for more benchmarks directly on the 3dmark.com website)
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i3-3220 processor and the GTX 650 Ti graphics card – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/5472250
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 3350P Quad-Core Processor 3.1 Ghz 6 MB Cache LGA 1155 – BX80637i53350P($179.95)
- Motherboard: *none (no reason for this budget at this point in time)
- Graphics Card: Gigabyte AMD Radeon HD 7850 1GB GDDR5 DVI/HDMI/2x mini-Displayport PCI-Express 3.0 CrossFire ready Graphics Card GV-R785OC-1GD
- Hard Drive: WD Blue 1 TB Desktop Hard Drive: 3.5 Inch, 7200 RPM, SATA III, 64 MB Cache – WD10EZEX
- 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 (If you start adding more to the build, otherwise do not purchase more then you need in a PSU)
- Computer Case: Cooler Master Elite 430 – Mid Tower Computer Case with All-Black Interior (RC-430-KWN1)
- 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: $119.99
| 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 1024MB GDDR5 128bit, Dual Dual-Link DVI, Mini HDMI, Graphics Card (01G-P4-3650-KR) Graphics Cards 01G-P4-3650-KR Price: $139.99
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: $41.98
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: $60.28
Western Digital 500 GB Caviar Blue
500GB for a budget build seems to be a good amount of space. Need more later because you hoard tons of music, movies and other sorts of media? Then by all means, just connect another hard drive later on, or find one that goes spontaneously on sale, but for now a nice solid 500GB hard drive should do the trick.
Performance Details From Western Digital’s Website:
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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: $38.24
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 $35.75
Technical Details:
- 6 fan capability ( one rear 120mm included )
- Black Interior
- Wire routing: motherboard punched holes allows for quick CPU bracket removable and optimal wire routing, turned HDD also helps with managing cables
- High end graphics card support, the Gamma features space that is especially designed to fit longer 10.5-Inch cards
- Brand Name: Nzxt
- Model: GAMMA Black
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Color Name: Black
- Warranty: All NZXT cases comes in 1-year top to bottom Warranty, please email your request to RMA@NZXT.COM
Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $16.99
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
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.| Estimated Price: $997.54 |
Overview: Gaming PC Build ( $1000 )
The $1000 build has had a tiny ‘boost’ this month with the addition of the Radeon HD 7950 3GB BOOST edition card, a manufactured overclocked version of the Radeon 7950.
We have also upped the motherboard to the AsRock EXTREME6 version instead of the previous EXTREME4. – The reason behind this was mostly cost as the previous EXTREME4 version I had linked shot up in price (above the EXTREME6 version at that).
And finally, the $1000 build includes the NZXT Classic H2 Silent Mid Tower Case – a very nice case that comes in either white or black. Has a nice sleek smooth front and puts off a really minimalistic vibe. I was going to try and include the newly announced Cooler Master Storm Scout 2 Advanced case, however I could not find it for sale ye; perhaps next month!
$1000 Build Performance –
(*note: i do try to make these benchmark results as close to stock speeds as possible, although they may not always be 100% accurate. If you like you make also search for more benchmarks directly on the 3dmark.com website)
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i5-3570K processor and the Radeon HD 7870 graphics card – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/4791976
Overview: The Gaming PC Hardware
Intel Core i5 3570K Processor 3.4 4 BX80637I53570K Price: $219.99
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 |
AS Rock LGA1155 DDR3 SATA3 USB3.0 Quad CrossFireX and Quad SLI A GbE ATX Motherboard Z77 EXTREME6 Price: $151.99
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
Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 3GB DDR5 HDMI / DVI-I / Dual Mini DP with Boost PCI-Express Graphics Card 11196-16-20GPrice: $299.99
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:
- 850/925(Boost) MHz Core Clock
- 5000 MHz Effective Memory Clock
- 1 x Dual-Link DVI
- 1 x HDMI
- 2 x Mini-DisplayPort
- DisplayPort 1.2
Kingston Technology HyperX 8 GB (2×4 GB Modules) 1600 MHz DDR3 Dual Channel Kit (PC3 12800) 240-Pin SDRAM KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX Price: $41.98
- 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: $76.99
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 80 PLUS Bronze (TX750) Price: $89.99
Product Details:
According to Corsair.com –
- The Enthusiast Series TX750 V2 power supply delivers 750W of clean, stable, continuous power, making it a great choice when you need an affordable, premium quality, and energy-efficient power supply for your high-end gaming rig or workstation. For systems with even higher power needs, there is also an 850W (Model TX850V2) version available.
NZXT Technologies H2 Classic Silent Midtower Chassis CS-NT-H2-W (White) Price: $99
Technical Details
- MODEL: H2 /CASE TYPE: Mid Tower Steel /FRONT PANEL MATERIAL: Plastic/Steel
- COOLING SYSTEM: FRONT, 2 X 120mm @ 1200rpm ( included )REAR, 1 X 120mm @ 1200rpm (included)TOP, 1 X 140mmBOTTOM, 1 x 120mm /
- Three fans included:2 x120mm front touch powered fans1x 140mm rear fan
- Top hot swap capable SATA HDD Dock (requires an AHCI capable motherboard and hot swappable HDD) and USB 3.0 port for the most up to date function
- Noise dampening foam and a top magnetic fan cover for minimal PC noise
- 30W 3-step fan control for airflow settings at 40%, 70%, and 100% of maximum fan spee
- Ample 25mm space behind motherboard for cable management
- COOLING SYSTEM: FRONT, 2 x 120mm @ 1200rpm (included )REAR, 1 x 120mm @ 1200rpm (included)TOP, 1 x 140mmBOTTOM, 1 x 120mm
- Cooling System: DRIVE BAYS: 3 EXTERNAL 5.25″ DRIVE BAYS 8 INTERNAL 3.5″/2.5″ SlotsScrewless Rail Design /
- DIMENSIONS (W x H x D): 215 x 466 X 520 mm /Motherboard SUPPORT ATX, MICRO-ATX, BABY AT
- DRIVE BAYS: 3 EXTERNAL 5.25″ DRIVE BAYS 8 INTERNAL 3.5″/2.5″ Slots crewless Rail Design /
Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $16.99
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
 |
 |
 |
 |
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.
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.| Estimated Price: $1448 |
Overview: Gaming PC Build ( $1500 )
Prices for the $1500 dropped overall this month which makes the purchase overall a great value this month. This build has all of the necessities of a high end gaming build such as the incredible Radeon HD 7970 graphics card, a large 250GB Solid State Drive, 16GB of RAM and lets not leave out the very new awesome looking Azza Genesis 9000W Full Tower PC Case!
$1500 Build Performance –
(*note: i do try to make these benchmark results as close to stock speeds as possible, although they may not always be 100% accurate. If you like you make also search for more benchmarks directly on the 3dmark.com website)
Here are the 3D Mark 7 benchmarks using the Intel i5-3570K processor and the Radeon HD 7970 graphics card – http://www.3dmark.com/3dm11/5618955
Overview: The Gaming PC Hardware
Intel Core i5-3570K Quad-Core Processor 3.4 GHz 4 Core LGA 1155 – BX80637I53570K Price: $223.79
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: $33.24
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 EXTREME6 Price: $151.99
Product Details:
- CPU: LGA1155; Supports 2nd/3rd Generation Intel Core i7/ i5/ i3 Processor; Supports Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology; Supports Hyper-Threading Technology
- Chipset: Intel Z77
- Memory: 4X DDR3-2800+(OC)/2400(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/1600/1333/1066 DIMM Slots, Non-ECC, Unbuffered, Dual Channel, Maxi Capacity up to 32GB
- Slots: 2X PCI-Express 3.0 X16 Slots (single at X16/X8 or dual at X8/X8), 1X PCI-Express 2.0 X16 Slot (runs at X4), 1X PCI Express 2.0 X1 Slot, 1X mini-PCI Express Slot, 2 X PCI Slots
- SATA:?4X SATA3 Ports (one shared with eSATA3 port),?Two Support RAID 0, 1, 5, 10; 4X SATA2, Supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10
- Power Connector: 1X 24-Pin ATX Main Power Connector, 1X 8-Pin 12V Power Connector
Gigabyte AMD Radeon HD 7970 OC 3GB GDDR5 DVI-I/HDMI/2x Mini-Displayport PCI-E 3.0 Graphics Card GV-R797OC-3GD Price: $399.99
This card will have you playing any game without any problems at Max Settings with resolutions soaring up to 2560X1600 easily.
Product Details
- Ultra Durable VGA materials – GPU Temperature 5%-10% down – Overclocking Capability 10%-30% Up – Power Switching Loss 10%-30% down.
- WINDFORCE 3X with “Triangle Cool” Technology for the absolute best cooling performance at whisper silent operation.
- Factory Overclocked Edition: Core Clock: 1000MHz (Std 925MHz)
- Supports PCI-Express 3.0 Interface; Supports AMD CrossFire, Avivo HD, Eyefinity 2.0, and EyeSpeed technologies.
- Features DVI-I/HDMI/2x mini-Displayport outputs with HDCP protection.
- Minimum Recommended Power System Power Supply unit 550W.
Corsair Vengeance 16GB (2x8GB) DDR3 1600 MHz (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory (CMZ16GX3M2A1600C10) Price: $89.99
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: $69.99
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.
Samsung Electronics Samsung 840 Series Solid State Drive (SSD) 250 sata_6_0_gb 2.5-Inch MZ-7TD250BW Price: $173.33
Sequential Read: 540 MB/s
Sequential Write: 250 MB/s
Power Consumption (Active): 0.071 W
Power Consumption (Idle): 0.046 W
Technical Details
- Optimized to improve everyday PC productivity, including web-browsing, email, multimedia and gaming
- Enables you to boot up your computer in as little as 15 seconds
- Energy efficient – improves battery life by up to 50 minutes
- Solid-state design provides greater shock protection for data and brushed metal case blocks dust and corrosion
- Worry-free data security with AES 256-bit full-disk encryption
- 100-percent genuine Samsung components from the #1 memory manufacturer in the world
- Backed by a three-year limited warranty
- Superior multi-tasking performance with 4th-generation 3-Core Samsung MDX Controller
Corsair Enthusiast Series TX 850 Watt ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze (TX850M)Price: $118.99
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
- Over-voltage and over-current protection, under-voltage 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.
- Short circuit protection provide maximum safety to your critical system components.
- The latest ATX12V v2.31 and EPS 2.92 standards and it is backward compatible with ATX12V 2.2 and ATX12V 2.01 systems.
Azza Genesis 9000W Full Tower Case, White (CSAZ-9000W) Price: $169.99
Product Details
- R-ATX Design: Reversible motherboard tray can be rotated 180 degree to orient graphics cards at the top, next to the top fan to enhance the efficiency of heat dissipation.
- Idea Aerodynamic Airflow: An idea vertical airflow is generated to offer Exceptional system cooling.
- Maximum Compatibility: Accommodates XL-ATX , E-ATX , Full ATX , Micro ATX and all NVidia and ATI graphics cards up to 400mm in length.
- Maximum Capacity Water Cooling: Top Mount Radiator: supports up to 480mm radiator, Bottom Mount Radiator: supports up to 240mm radiator.
- Supports Dual-Power Supply: Power supply can be located at either front or rear bottom, also supports dual-power supply.
- Dimensions(H x W x D): 25.1-Inch x 9.8-Inch x 23.2-Inch, Weight: 36 lbs.
- Exceptional Cooling System: Total 7 fans, 2 x 230mm fans on top, 2 x 140mm fan on bottom, 2 x 120mm fan on side panel, 1 x 120mm fan in rear.
Lite-On Super AllWrite 24X SATA DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive – Bulk – IHAS124-04 Version C (Black) Price: $`16.99
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
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Swap the Processor for an i7 –
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Better CPU Cooler (To Overclock Intel 3570K): |
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Overview: Additions / Part Swaps
The above hardware are examples of hardware upgrades / replacements for the $1500 build. For example: You could do crossfire with a second Radeon HD 7970, or instead of an Intel 3570K processor you could use the above Intel i7 3770K processor. It’s all up to you and if you have any questions about these hardware swaps or any other additions then please leave a comment below.
Concluding February 2013’s Gaming PC Builds:
This has been a great month for the Mid and High range $1000 & $1500 gaming pc builds specifically. And even though the $500 build has yet stayed the same, this just means that it has stood the test of time and still stands strong.
The $1000 build had a a graphics card increase with the additions of a Radeon HD 7950 3GB BOOT edition graphics card as well as the addition of the AsRock EXTREME6 edition motherboard. While the $1500 went down in price for the same performance capabilities and the inclusion of the very new spiffy Azza Genesis 9000W pc case!
Have any questions? Then please leave a comment below!
February 2013’s Gaming PC Hardware Overview Video:
$1500 Build Video
$1000 Build Video
$500 Build Video
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