Low budget build (cpu+mobo+gpu+ram) alternative to consoles

asendra

Member
Nov 4, 2012
156
12
81
Budget: 350€ - 450€

Background:
I've been away from gaming ever since my launch day 360 died out of warranty, and have been too busy with college and work to even care, but now I want in on the fun again.

I've always been a console guy,but I'm no extranger to custom pc build, and I believe is a much better use of my money to build a pc, considering I already own a PSU, case, dvd drive, HDD, good monitor, decent 5.1 sound system.. and a window 8.1 license through Dreamspark. and considering that I already own a few of the games I want to play in steam. My current Macbook Air 2012 really doesn't cut it, obviously..

Games I'd like to play are Bioshock Infinite, Batman Arkham series, Dishonoured, Rayman Origins/Legends, Spelunky, Assassins Creed 4, Watch Dogs..

Possible builds:

AMD FX-6300 (100€) OR AMD FX-8320 Black edition (125€) + HD7870 2GB (155€) + Mobo (70€) + 2x4Gb DDR3 (60€) = 390€ - 415€

Intel i5-4570 (170€) + GTX660 2GB (160€) + Mobo (70€) + 2x4Gb DDR3 (60€) = 460€

Other combination could be a FX-6300 (100€) + GTX760 (220€) but I think that is too little CPU for the next 4 years and too much GPU for me right now. I just need one for the next 2 years or so, then I'll either upgrade it, or buy a PS4 for the exclusives if has been redesigned and cut down in price.

Considerations:
- What I would like is to be able to upgrade the GPU (and PSU), add 8GB more of ram in say two years, and keep using the CPU + mobo combo. So I think the FX-6300 would be maybe a bit underpowered. I think at least a Quad-Core is needed for the near future, specially considering current consoles configurations.
- I'm a Mac user, so consider this PC build only as a console alternative, meaning, just for running steam/origin. CPU performance for other things like encoding, 3d rendering etc don't matter.... UNLESS (next point)
- The thing that makes me consider a Intel + Nvidia combo is the possibility of an easy Hackintosh. I've been a Mac user for the last 8 years, and I'm an iOs/Mac developer, so could be really useful to use a desktop to work without throwing money at a 27" iMac. If It's possible to have a hackintosh without all the hacks, registry mods, patches, and all that necessary for an AMD + H7Dxxx one, I would really take it into account.
- I'll be buying from Europe (Spain) so no Newegg and mail in rebates shenanigans (seriously guys, wtf uses that here in Europe?? never heard of it xD)
- I would like the mobo to be mATX so I can change to a smaller, better case in the near future. Also, does normal cases can be used for mATX mobos?
- My PSU is a Thermaltake 460w PurePower with a rating of >70% efficiency. It has at least 8 years, although only 2 of usage. IO understand It isn't a super PSU, but It also isn't a generic no name POS, It cost me 80€ or so, and I don't think this build really has great power demands. Would I be able to use it?
- My monitor is a Dell U2412M 1200p.

- I guess it would be wise to wait till January to see what Mantle brings for AMD, and what Steamboxes are shown in CES.
 
Last edited:

Blain

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
23,643
3
81
I wouldn't use an old PS to power fresh parts.
IMO... It's false economy to do so.
 

mfenn

Elite Member
Jan 17, 2010
22,400
5
71
www.mfenn.com
Sorry to break it to you, but a Thermaltake PSU is a no-name POS. :) I would try to get a new one in the budget.

For gaming, your FX-6300 + 7870 (also look at the R9 270X) is a much better value for money, espeically when you consider that you could get an R9 280X if you took the price up to where the Intel build is.

Since you won't be building until January, it's a little to early to get more specific than that.