How to Build a Core i5 Gaming Computer
Step 1: Gather Components
The first thing you will need to do to build a gaming computer is gather your components. If you haven't done so yet read through the hardware reviews. For this build I'm using my top recommended components. Below is a list of the components I've used along with links to where I purchased them.
- CPU:Intel Core i5 750 Processor 2.66 GHz 8 MB LGA1156 CPU I5-750BOX
- Motherboard:Gigabyte LGA1156 ATI CrossFireX ATX Motherboard GA-P55-USB3
- Memory: OCZ DDR3 PC3-10666 Platinum Low Voltage Dual Channel OCZ3P1333LV4GK
- Video Card: XFX ATI Radeon HD 5850 1 GB DDR5 2DVI/HDMI/DisplayPort PCI-Express Video Card HD585XZAFC
- Power Supply:Corsair CMPSU-650TX 650-Watt TX Series 80 Plus Certified Power Supply compatible with Intel Core i7 and Core i5
- Case: Antec Three Hundred Gaming Case External 3 X 5.25; Internal 6 X 3.5 2*Usb2.0
- Hard Drive: Western Digital 750 GB Caviar Black SATA 7200 RPM 32 MB Cache Bulk/OEM Desktop Hard Drive WD7501AALS
- DVD Burner: Liteon 24X DVDrw Sata Retail
- CPU Cooler: Stock
- Operating System:
My total was $1,090.91. Availability and pricing for computer components changes frequently. If components become unavailable I will try to keep up with providing appropriate alternatives. If you see something that isn't exactly as in the build guide it is because I had to list a substitution due to availability. You may also be able to find better deals if you shop around. I like to shop at Amazon
I know a thousand dollars might seem like a bit much to spend on building a desktop computer compared to the off the shelf systems being sold by major computer manufacturers. What you need to realize though is that to get the performance we're getting from this $1,000 gaming computer we built, you would likely spend $300-$400 more. I was comparing prices at a few of the more popular manufacturers and most will stick you with a NVIDIA GTS 240 or 250 in their $1,000 machine. For comparison we're using a Radeon HD 5850. It's a tier 3 video card and in my opinion represents the best price for performance. The GTS 250 is a tier 6 video card.
There is a rather large disparity in performance between the two. Check out the graphics card charts at Tom's Hardware for a comparison. Build your own computer and you will get far more bang for your buck. Another thing to consider is the length of time you will use your computer. I usually get about 3 years of use out of my computers. Spread that $1,000 over 3 years and you're looking at about $30 a month. I can live with that.
If you are going to buy an off the shelf computer beware of manufacturers pairing a high powered CPU with a low level video card. I see it all over the place. An Intel Core i7 paired with a GTS 250 video card or even worse, a 9800 GT. I apologize for getting a little carried away on a tangent there. I get a little upset when I see the marketing ploys manufacturers use. Let the building begin!
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