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Should I build a new PC?

I

Ime

Diamond Member
I asked about my problem in this thread: http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2243104

Problem turns out to be my PSU. I've already got recommendations on replacing the PSU in the other thread, but I'd like to hear opinions on whether I should consider spending $1-1.25k on building/buying a new PC altogether. Heck I might even go with a gaming laptop.

Here's what I run currently:

RAM: 8GB (4x2GB) DDR3 1333
CPU: AMD Phenom II X4 955(3.2GHz) not overclocked
CPU Cooler: ARCTIC COOLING Freezer 7 Pro Rev.2 92mm Fluid Dynamic CPU Cooler
GPU: AMD 6950 1GB (factory OC'd by XFX)
HDD: 2 x 1TB HDD
PSU: Generic 700watt PSU from Cyberpower PC
MB: Gigabyte GA-MA770T-UD3P (Rev 1.0)
Case: NZXT Beta

The case is cramped but serviceable. The 6950 just barely fits in it.

The CPU/MB combo is old. SATA II, USB 2.0, etc.

So I'm looking at several options:

1) Replace the PSU and keep using the PC for another 6-12 months.
2) Perform a major upgrade, replacing CPU/MB and PSU.
3) Buy/Build a brand new system from scratch.

What do you guys think?
 
Looks like your memory, HD, Case, CPU Cooler, and GPU are all pretty good. Your CPU is a little long in the tooth, but not that bad.
Really, your best bet for an upgrade is probably a SSD, and wait another year for the rest.
 
If money's at all tight, treat yourself to a nice new case and PSU; that should fix any dust, power, and heat problems. The rest of your system is probably fine for 12 months, and you can keep the case and power supply when you upgrade. I'd also consider getting a better CPU cooler while you're at it, as one can be had for $25 or so (like the every popular CM Hyper 212 series).

Your choice of case really depends on what you value most (style, quiet, cooling), but AT has had lots of case reviews lately with some solid recommendations. For PSU, I like Seasonic, but you can often get a rebranded Seasonic from other manufacturers for a few dollars less.

Of course, if you're looking to spend a bit of money, an SSD, the new Ivy Bridge i5 and an overclocked 7850 would offer excellent bang-for-buck and noticeable performance improvements.
 
DSF said:
What is your computer currently not doing that you'd like it to do?
Click to expand...

Honestly? Until I ran into the problems with my PC shutting down on Witcher 2 and Kingdoms of Amalur. I had no issues. I can just replace the PSU with something recommended in the other thread and call it good. I was simply curious if I was better upgrading.

The consensus seems to be, replace the PSU, maybe get a SSD, and wait about a year. (which would be good, I could plan to use my tax return money on a new system)

So I'll do just that!
 
If you're overall happy with the performance of your PC, I would just replace the PSU. A quality unit like an XFX Core 650W would last you through your next build anyway.
 
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