thanks all for the useful inputs.
Basic idea from reading all that.
- spend the most on GPU
- CPU is second most expensive on that list, optimal would be about 2/3 of what the GPU cost
- Followed by RAM which cost around 2/3 of the CPU
- MB should cost around the price range of the RAM, slightly more if that MB is capable of future upgrades by adding additional parts, such as RAM, GPU, etc...
- HDD, get the one that currently gives the most GB per dollar (500G currently)
- Case - no conclusions
- PSU - some say generic, some say a good one
I think, base on those responses, that's pretty much the idea to build.
Question on the case. Does aluminum case work better than steel? In term of heat issue, that is.
A good case would probably cost in the $100 range?
For PSU, is it better to get one that prepares for future upgrade of SLI/xfire? Or just buy a new one when I add another GPU? (I am thinking the prior)
For MB, I really would like an SLI/xfire ready, so, I can just stick another GPU in there in a year or 2 when that same card becomes dirt cheap. (The cards has to be exactly the same for SLI/xfire to work, right? same RAM, etc...) This is probably the thought one to shop around due to tons of choices with so many brands. And all those crazy acronyms.
I most likely will stick with AMD for the budget. I definitely want the 2MB cache version.
It seems like most agreed that 8800 GT GPU is the best option.
Now, I am closer to my final choices. (bold choices are the primary must have parts)
GPU: 8800 GT (dx10 ready that won't make this GPU obsolete by next year)
CPU: AMD windors 2MB cache (cache goes a long way)
RAM: ddr2-800 2GB (currently best price/performance)
HDD: 500GB SATA2 (currently best GB/dollar)
MB: can't decide whether to go SLI/xfire ready
PSU: decision based on MB
CASE: this is a though one to shop. I remember having to walk around many stores for like 3 hrs until i picked one
Which route would you take when you upgrade (assuming in 2-3 years)?
option 1:
- add GPU and RAM
- cost less now and more later
option 2:
- replace MB and PSU
- add RAM and GPU
- cost more now and less later
