Current Events > Gonna build a PC for the first time soon, what should I know?

(+) Yeah! (+)

I got a processor picked out, i9-9900 is probably fine for me

I would like a RTX 3070, but not sure where I can get one soon. Am I able to build everything else, and then add it on later, overriding the integrated GPU?

I dont know much about what to look out for as far as the other parts go, any advice? Will use pcpartspicker to check compatibility

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TeaMilk posted...

I got a processor picked out, i9-9900 is probably fine for me

I would like a RTX 3070, but not sure where I can get one soon. Am I able to build everything else, and then add it on later, overriding the integrated GPU?

I dont know much about what to look out for as far as the other parts go, any advice? Will use pcpartspicker to check compatibility

Make sure you don't get a processor ending with F or KF since they don't have integrated graphics if you go that route. 3070s are easier to get than 3080s, but expect to be camping out in some stock drop discords/twitters for awhile to get one.

I would honestly just go to ibuypower or one of the other custom pre-built sites and just pick everything you want and then wait to get it. You won't have any of it for a few weeks/months, but if the gpu is DOA at least they'll replace the GPU instead of you just getting a refund and needing to order another one.

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Yes, you can add the RTX 3070 after you have built everything else

have you thought about building one

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Not all CPUs have integrated GPU. Make sure to get one that does if you plan to rely on integrated for now. Alternatively you could just get a cheap low-end "better than nothing" GPU like a GT1030 for now, and replace it with something fancy later, if the CPU doesn't have integrated graphics.

I assume you want this PC mostly for gaming? If it's general purpose (even if that includes gaming), you might want to at least give some thought to going for a Ryzen CPU instead - Intel seem to have better single-core performance (which is often what games care about most), but AMD tend to win on multi-core (which helps in multitasking situations and with a lot of non-gaming intensive tasks).

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For cases make sure you pay attention to airflow, space, and room for expansion (if you ever want to expand) before looks. Some cases look great but might be lacking significantly in airflow or space.

Consider whether you want to use air cooling for your CPU or an all in one (AIO) water cool system. AIO is gonna cost a lot more but can make a performance difference and can look really nice. I personally go with air cooling because I don't put my CPU under very heavy load and it's much cheaper.

For power supply you gotta go fully modular, they're pricier but you don't have a fuck load of unused cables crowding your case up. Recommend using a wattage calculator online and then buying one that can supply a good deal more than what you'll need - that way if you upgrade your GPU or something you won't also have to buy a new power supply. Also get an 80 Plus certified one for power efficiency.

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just get an Alienware

get a mini pc and call it a morning

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Dont let a bead of sweat drip form your forehead and fry your mobo like the first time I built a PC :(

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SpoiltTrouser posted...

have you thought about building one

huh?? thats what this topic is

Trumble posted...

I assume you want this PC mostly for gaming? If it's general purpose (even if that includes gaming), you might want to at least give some thought to going for a Ryzen CPU instead - Intel seem to have better single-core performance (which is often what games care about most), but AMD tend to win on multi-core (which helps in multitasking situations and with a lot of non-gaming intensive tasks).

Hmm thanks, I will keep that in mind. I want this to be a multipurpose workstation (some gaming, programming, art, etc.) but nothing super intensive really. I do get a discount on Intel CPUs which is why I picked them

MC_BatCommander posted...

For cases make sure you pay attention to airflow, space, and room for expansion (if you ever want to expand) before looks. Some cases look great but might be lacking significantly in airflow or space.

Consider whether you want to use air cooling for your CPU or an all in one (AIO) water cool system. AIO is gonna cost a lot more but can make a performance difference and can look really nice. I personally go with air cooling because I don't put my CPU under very heavy load and it's much cheaper.

For power supply you gotta go fully modular, they're pricier but you don't have a fuck load of unused cables crowding your case up. Recommend using a wattage calculator online and then buying one that can supply a good deal more than what you'll need - that way if you upgrade your GPU or something you won't also have to buy a new power supply. Also get an 80 Plus certified one for power efficiency.

ty ty this is all really helpful. I think i def want to go with fan cooling, I have a friend who ruined a several thousand $ build from a shoddy liquid cooling system lol

Dark_SilverX posted...

get a mini pc and call it a morning

i have like 4 laptops already i cant take it anymore

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