building a computer

Student Lounge College Life
21

<p>I haven't read all the posts, but unless you're willing, you might want a package deal or something. Picking the parts out individually can be very tedious, especially when you have to consider compatibility stuff.</p>

<p>Here's a hint: the motherboard is key. pick that out first. then pick out processor, g-card, RAM, drives, etc. and don't go cheap on the case. less money = poor quality. in fact, I think the case is so important that you shouldn't buy it online. shipping is way too much, and you can really get a look at it. before you decide, take apart some computers, take a look at how everything is organized, and how some cases are better/worse than others. if you have a good case, you will be grateful when doing the wiring.</p>

<p>^haha, long hint.</p>

<p>EDIT:</p>

<p>i forgot, DON'T use the cheap thermal paste that comes with the processor or the motherboard. Something</a> like this is worth the money.</p>

22

<p>If you don't need the computer immediately, slickdeals.net often features very cheap prices for RAM, HDDs, and monitors. I'd imagine it'd take a month or so watching the site, but you'd eventually be able to find enough great deals to build a really cheap, powerful PC.</p>

23

<p>For god's sake build your own system. So much less pain when it comes to fixing stuff and dealing with software. No trials preloaded or anything. Plus you can save a couple hundred bucks.</p>

24

<p>As someone else has mentioned, building a low-mid end PC is more expensive than buying a pre built one.</p>