First build

[Matt1024]

First of all I'm kind of a noob when it comes to building a complete computer. I've done basic things like adding video cards and all but not a full build. My laptop has taken a crap and I would like to build a computer that I can connect to my tv pc input and use a wireless mouse and keyboard in my living room. All it really needs to do is be able to get online using my wireless network for browsing and Netflix and maybe play some nes games on an emulator. I'm hoping to spend about $400-$500 which might end up being more as I don't know much about what I'll need parts wise. I will be ordering all of the parts from the us. No brand preference really. I live in a rural area that doesn't have high speed Internet so I have to use the wireless tether on my phone. (I know I'm in the stone age) Any help, suggestions, or advice will be greatly appreciated. Btw its have an older Sony lcd tv with 720p if that makes a difference. My son is turning two and being a stay at home dad it would also be nice to be able to let him play some educational games. He's actually pretty advanced for his age and would probably do better than me building a computer lol. Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[riversend]

First off, welcome to the forums.

Looks like you hit most of the questions from the sticky, and judging from your input it sounds like you do not have any parts to reuse and you will also need a copy of Windows to go with the build.

Given the need for Windows, have you given any thought to just ordering a pre-built like this Dell ($400)? I would guess there are others, but this one should do what you are looking for and saves you the trouble of the build. Something comparable with a Windows license would look like this:


i3 2120 ($105)
AsRock H77 ($60)
RAM Crucial 2x4GB ($28)
HDD Seagate Barracuda 1TB ($80)
Case Antec 300 ($45) A bit dated, but should do the trick
PSU Corsair CX 430 ($37)
Windows 7 ($100) or 8 ($90)

Another ~$20 for a DVD drive.

Total: $475-485

If you push up your budget a bit you could get a newer CPU that would be a bit faster and lower power (i3 3220 with slightly better onboard graphics for $130).

I am sure others have some decent builds out there as well, go through any of the basic build threads in this topic area of the forum and you will see the range of possibilities.

Not sure how you tether your phone either, but I would guess a cheap Wifi adapter would also be required.

 

[Matt1024]

Thanks for the info. I was kind of thinking it might be about the same to buy a system but wasn't sure. I'll be sure to check that dell out.

 

[riversend]

Looks like the promotion on the Dell dropped. Take a look on Monday and see if anything pops back up. I'll try to do a look around the web and see what specials might be out there on pre-builts. Pair those with a wireless mouse and keyboard and you should be gtg.

 

[Matt1024]

Thanks a lot for the help. I don't really know a lot about the newer computers and you've been very helpful!

 

[mfenn]

Low budget + needs Windows + no gaming = Dell Outlet to me as well.

Dell outlet is currently running a promotion where you can get a certain percent off any PC. Right now there is an Inspiron 660s with a G630, 4GB of RAM, and built-in WiFi for $329 (no link because Dell outlet links break constantly). Take 15% off of that and you're at $280, which is a damn good price IMHO.

 

[riversend]

Wow, $280 for that is quite nice. OP, I think your problems are solved.

 

[Matt1024]

Yeah think that's it! Thanks everyone for the help!

 

[bononos]

Low budget + needs Windows + no gaming = Dell Outlet to me as well.
......

Quick question - do the new Dell's use standard ATX psus?

 

[mfenn]

Quick question - do the new Dell's use standard ATX psus?

Depends on the system. The mini and mid towers do, the small form factor and AIO units typically don't.