January 2013 Gaming PC Builds:
Quickly jump to…
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ( $500 ): January 2013
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ( $1000 ): January 2013
- Gaming PC Build of the Month ( $1500 ): January 2013
- Gaming PC Build Ultimate ( $2000 ): January 2013
A fresh new year for fresh new beginnings, so how about a new shiny PC build this 2013? I have been running the Gaming PC Builds of the Month column here on Newb Computer Build for now for over a year and a half and I have enjoyed doing it every month, so I will continue to do so!
In the last year or so we have also added in an additional PC Builds section thanks to a new individual here at Newb Computer Build – Obit’s AMD Builds. We have not created an official landing page for his builds yet, hence why I didn’t link anything here, but you can keep checking back monthly for his builds as well this year for all of you AMD enthusiasts.
I have also had several requests to do more, such as a gaming laptops column, or a peripherals column. I believe these are great ideas and will try my hardest to try and fit some time in to start doing this, however it may take a couple of months, but keep your eyes peeled. Perhaps there is a reader out there who would be interested in contributing to such a column? If there is I would love to hear from you.
Monthly Gaming PC Build ( $513 ): January 2013
(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: $ 513.21 |
Overview: $500 Gaming PC Build
The same build – a lower price point. The $500 pc build is pretty solid and the same as it was previous with hardly any hardware releases and minimal price drops or increases between December and now. You still get a wonderful Intel i3 3220 processor, a GTX 650 Ti and a full 8GB of memory; really one cannot complain getting all of this in a $500 budget range.
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 –
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: 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 (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: $938 |
Overview: Gaming PC Build ( $1000 )
Another pretty static build this month – The $1000 gaming pc build is built to the nines, with the very overclockable Intel i5 3570K, a solid Radeon HD 7870 Graphics Card and the new Cooler Master HAF 922 Mid Tower case.
Also, the price for the overall build has lowered to a very affordable $944 US! So there it a little wiggle room to upgrade what you like, such a up to 16GB RAM, or a 1.5TB hard drive?
$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: $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 |
Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler (RR-212E-20PK-R1) Price: $29.98
- 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: $127.99
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: $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.
Cooler Master HAF XB – LAN Box and Test Bench Mid Tower Computer Case with ATX Motherboard Support (RC-902XB-KKN1)Price: $99.99
And yes – this will fit the Hyper 212 Evo CPU Cooler as it supports heights of coolers up to 180mm.
Technical Details
- Direct front to back airflow over CPU and mainboard for extreme cooling performance
- Supports 240mm radiators with extra clearance for thick, high performance radiators or push-pull fan configurations
- Supports tower CPU coolers with a height up to 180mm and up to 334mm long high-end graphics cards
- Motherboard tray can be removed to install, remove, or swap components
- The first case that quickly and easily transforms into a Test Bench – ideal for enthusiasts and overclockers
- Dual USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports and X-Dock slots at the front panel for lightning fast plug-n-play I/O
- Rigid carrying handles on the side panels
The Cooler Master Haf XB (http://www.guru3d.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
$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.
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: $1478 |
Overview: Gaming PC Build ( $1500 )
A slight upgrade in motherboard to help afford upgrades in the future and a nice change in case to a sleek Corsair Obsidian Black. The $1500 will be able to rock any game out there and give you the confidence of doing so for quite some time. One suggestion would be to also always do a quick search for other Radeon HD 7970 cards since you can probably get its price down to about $400 saving you an easy $20 or so.
$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: $219.99
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: $29.98
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: $159.99
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
Diamond AMD Radeon HD 7970 PCIE 3G GDDR5 Video Graphics Card 7970PE53G Price: $456.99
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
G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory F3-12800CL10D-16GBXL Price: $79.00
I have switched the RAM package to a G Skill one this month due to price fluctuations on generally all RAM in the 16GB realm. G Skill just happened to be the most affordable quality package. Have used it in the past and have been very pleased.
Product Features:
- Type: 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM
- Capacity: 16GB (2 x 8GB)
- Speed: DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800)
- Cas Latency: 10
- Buffered/Registered: Unbuffered
Technical Details
- Model: F3-12800CL10D-16GBXL
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Form Factor: Desktop
- Memory Speed: 1600 MHz
Western Digital 1 TB WD Blue SATA III 7200 RPM 64 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive Price: $76.99
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-7TD250BWPrice: $178.46
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 750 Watt ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze (TX750M) Price: $119.98
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.
Corsair Obsidian Series Black 550D Mid Tower Computer Case (CC-9011015-WW) Price: $138.98
Product Details
- Six tool-free hard drive trays with integral SSD support and soft silicon sound dampening
- Four tool-free optical drive bays
- Front panel USB 3.0 connectors and audio connectors
- Cable routing cutouts with rubber grommets
- Removable, reversible front panel
- Eight expansion slots for multi-GPU compatibility
- Three 120mm fans
- Top panel is compatible with 240mm radiators for dual-radiator Hydro Series CPU coolers and liquid cooling systems
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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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.
Ultimate Gaming PC Build ( $2002 ): January 2013
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.
| Estimated Price: $2002 |
Overview: Ultimate Gaming PC Build ( $2000 )
Ok, so I did say the $2000 build was primarily for December, however due to a couple requests I have included one again with a couple of fine tunes upgrades – such as a 1.5 TB Hard Drive, an AsRock EXTREME6 motherboard and a Full Tower Cooler Master HAF X PC Case. I will try to do the $2000 build once in a while depending on time restraints and demand, so please let me know what you guys want as it really helps with the direction of these articles.
$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 January 2013’s Gaming PC Builds:
The end to the first Gaming PC Builds of the Month
January 2013’s Gaming PC Hardware Overview Video:
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