Desktop PC build for $750?

Austin Chavez6 said:Hey there,

It’s not quite a $5k build, maybe a bit less, but whatever....
Let's say I found a setup with these specific parts. Can someone tell me if this is a decent deal or if I can find something similar for cheaper? 😁

Avoid pre-built rigs. In this one, and most others, you have no idea what kind of motherboard you're getting or if the power supply is just some cheap junk... too many unknowns for too much cash.
1 x Asrock B75 Pro3M - Intel B75, microATX, dual Channel 4 xDDR3
1 x Intel Core i5-3350P 3.1GHz (Max Turbo FQ 3.3 GHz) ,6MB
2 x DDR3 4GB (1x4GB) Corsair, 1333MHz, CL9,Value, CMV4GX3M1A1333C9
1 x Zalman 500-GS_II PSU, 500W, ATX12V V2.31, active PFC
1 x Zalman ZM-T2 PLUS micro tower case. 189(W) x 427,5(H) x 364(D)mm
1 x Samsung SH-224DB sat Bulk Black, SATA
1 x Sapphire r7 260 x 1GB GDDR5 OC, 1GB GDDR5 128bit, 28nm
1 x TOSHIBA 1TB, 7200rpm, SATA 6 Gb/s, 32MB, DT01ACA100

$1358
A much better way to go. Might cost $67 a little more, but at least you know what you're buying.

2 x DDR3 4GB (1x4GB) Corsair, 1333MHz, CL9,Value, CMV4GX3M1A1333C9
1 x Zalman 500-GS_II PSU, 500W, ATX12V V2.31, active PFC
1 x Sapphire r7 260 x 1GB GDDR5 OC, 1GB GDDR5 128bit, 28nm
1 x Samsung 120 GB 840 evo Basic, SSD disk, Capacity 120 GB, 2.5"
1 x AMD FX-Series X6 6300 3.5GHz,14MB,95W,AM3+, FD6300WMHK
1 x ASUS M5A97 R2.0, AM3,AM3+, AMD 970, SB950, BUS 5200 MHz, DDR3
1 x MS LOGIC A33 without PSU, Midi tower, ATX, 5.25" external bay
1 x ZALMAN CNPS 5X, socket 775/1155/1156/AM2/AM2/AM3

$1339
Or do it this way if you plan on using your own drives and old gear.

Austin Chavez6 said:Hey there.

Not exactly a $5k build, more like a bit less than that, but it’ll do, I guess.
I guess I should just say I found it. I guess I'm just confused. I'm looking at the specs here—any idea if this is actually a decent deal, or am I just overpaying for nothing? 😁

There isn't really much worth looking at here. The processor is decent—maybe the RAM too—but everything else is honestly kind of a joke.

Here is the breakdown,

Athlon x4 760, 3.8GHz, FM2 quad core
Msi A88XM, FM2, SATA3
8GB DDR3 patriot Viper 1866
MSI GeForce GTX 750, 2GB GDDR5, dual cooler gaming edition.
Ssd 120 Kingston HyperX
Fractal Design Integra R 500W 80+ Bronze power supply.
Samsung DVD-RW.

$1267, everything is brand new, obviously. You won't find anything better than this.

mellowtiger83 said:Here’s the build,

Athlon x4 760, 3.8ghz, fm2 quad core
Msi A88XM, fm2, sata3
8Gb ddr3 patriot Viper 1866mhz
Msi gforce gtx 750ti, 2gb gddr5 gaming dual cooler.
Ssd 120gb hyperx kingston
Fractal Design integra r 500w 80+ bronze power supply.
Samsung Dwd rw.

$1267Everything is brand new, obviously. You can't get better than this.

The ones listed above are $1333 two better builds 😍

mellowtiger83 said:Here is the offer,

The Athlon x4 760 k? It hits 3.8GHz on an FM2 quad core. Is that really all it takes to get things moving?
MSI A88XM, FM2, SATA3.
8GB DDR3 patriot Viper 1866MHz
The MSI GeForce GTX 750 Ti, featuring 2GB of GDDR5 and a dual-fan cooling setup. Any takers?
Is anyone else looking at the Kingston HyperX Ssd 120? I've been weighing my options lately. Should I pull the trigger on this one?
Is there anything more essential than a reliable power supply? I've been looking closely at the Fractal Integra R 500W 80+ Bronze. It’s a solid choice for anyone trying to balance efficiency and stability in their build.
Is there anything more reliable than a Samsung drive? I honestly don't think so.

$1267Of course, everything is brand new here—honestly, there's no way to top this!

Why don't you just take that first Intel build from Robert Rodriguez2 and pull out only the hardware? Since you mentioned you have those parts lying around, it might just work out perfectly! $1167And once again, you end up with a significantly more powerful configuration because of that damn processor! You won't have to worry about swapping it out for at least five years, and besides, you'll be able to pair it with just about any graphics card on the market!
So, here’s how it goes:
One Asrock B75 Pro3M—featuring an Intel B75 chipset, microATX form factor, and dual Channel 4 xDDR3 support.
One Intel Core i5-3350P 3.1GHz processor—featuring a 6MB cache and a Max Turbo frequency of up to 3.3 GHz. Is this the right fit for your build?
Is there anything more reliable than a solid set of memory? I’ve got my hands on two sticks of 4GB Corsair DDR3, running at 1333MHz with a CL9 latency—specifically the Value series, model CMV4GX3M1A1333C9. Just standard, dependable hardware.
Is there anything more essential than a reliable power supply? I have one Zalman 500-GS_II PSU on hand—it delivers 500W, follows the ATX12V V2.31 standard, and features active PFC. Simple, effective, and ready to work.
I have one Zalman ZM-T2 PLUS micro tower case available. Its dimensions are 189mm (W) x 427.5mm (H) x 364mm (D).
So, I’ve got my hands on one of these: a single Sapphire r7 260 x 1GB GDDR5 OC. It features 1GB of GDDR5 memory with a 128-bit bus, all built on that 28nm process. Just thought I'd put that out there!

$1167 I just wish Robert Rodriguez2 would tell me which shop actually put this thing together!

Robert Rodriguez2 said:above, there are two slightly better $1333 😍 setups

I'm not entirely convinced. That MSI gaming edition gtx 750 is noticeably faster than the r7 260 x, though when you compare it to something in the 7850 range, it's faster in some spots and slower in others.

The top configuration features an i5 which is superior, but it lacks an SSD. The bottom one uses an FX-6300 on the AM3 platform, which is already outdated for any meaningful future upgrades. Both builds $1333, $67 cost more than my own, and at the end of the day, mine was assembled and stress-tested at Microline.

I guess you could grab an r7 265 along with an Intel Core i5-3350P 3.1 at Walmart for about $1200 😉
.

Just a little trolling here, but I actually like learning things—so let me ask you guys—is there any real difference between different brands making the exact same GPU models, or are the differences negligible? I see that mellowtiger83 claims the 750 ti is faster, but according to hwcompare, it isn't, so that's why I'm asking.
Also, how much weight should I give to sites like that? I know they're just looking at theoretical specs and real-world results can vary, but is the "theory" itself even accurate or verified?

Honestly, I’d steer clear of those sites and check out a real review instead... maybe on Guru3D, Hardware Canucks, or AnandTech.

Prices over at Best Buy are pretty reasonable, and they'll even let you pay in installments if you need to.

ruggedeagle40 said:I’m mostly just trolling here, but I actually enjoy learning things so I figured I’d ask—is there any real difference between manufacturers making identical models of graphics cards, or are the differences negligible? I see mellowtiger83 claiming the 750 ti is faster, but according to hwcompare, it isn't. So, I'm asking.
Also, how much weight should I give those kinds of sites? I realize they deal mostly in theoretical specs and real-world performance can vary, but is even that "theory" accurate and verified?

The gtx 750ti is faster than the r7 260 x in absolutely every single title. You don't have to take my word for it; just type "gtx 750ti reviews" into Google and every result will confirm it.

I know this from direct experience because I work at Microline. We test every possible card, processor, and motherboard. Every PC we build from parts for an end customer—especially those without top-tier specs—undergoes rigorous testing, from six-hour memory tests to actual gaming benchmarks.

A major advantage of the gtx over the r7 is the power consumption, which is noticeably lower. Additionally, it runs cooler and quieter than the Radeon, making it an absolute best buy right now; Nvidia really hit the mark here.

Furthermore, I notice everyone is pairing i5 processors into configurations that are way over $333, meaning you have to cut corners on other components. My advice is to stick to best buy components, and an i5 certainly isn't one. If you are dead set on Intel, get an I3 instead. It's roughly $400-$167 cheaper and offers a much better value ratio, leaving you enough cash for something like 4GB of memory.

The most critical part of a computer is the motherboard. People tend to skimp there and regret it later. Spend $500-$200 on a decent board and you'll be fine; stay away from those $100 models.

@mellowtiger83/">@@mellowtiger83 I don't know, I'm probably not gonna agree with you there. I think the i3 is kind of a waste of money. Why? Because it’s just a dual-core chip (setting HT aside for a second), and honestly, the price is pretty high considering you can find Athlon x4 740/750/760. running in that same range. If not those, then there's the FX-6300, which is a six-core beast. Obviously, core count isn't everything, but more programs—and even newer OS updates—are starting to take advantage of multiple cores, so why not?

Also, regarding motherboards, if you're going with an AMD FX series, you really should be looking at higher-end boards. They pull more power and run hotter, so they need better power delivery. Those Athlon chips mentioned earlier will work just fine on cheap boards (if you aren't overclocking or whatever), whereas Intel chips are usually more efficient. I don't see much point in picking up a board that costs at least $200 unless someone specifically needs extra RAM slots, a ton of USB ports, PCI connectors, and all that stuff. Let's be real—most gaming rigs just use one GPU and call it a day; rarely does anyone use more than four PCIe slots or anything like that. I'd say just make sure the board has at least USB 3.0 and SATA 3.

mellowtiger83 said:The GTX 1050 crushes the R7 260X in basically every game. Just Google "GTX 1050 reviews" and you'll see the data everywhere. It's not even a contest.

I know this firsthand because I work at Dell. We've tested every possible combo of cards, CPUs, and motherboards. Every custom build we put together for a customer goes through a brutal gauntlet—six hours of non-stop stress tests, from memory checks to heavy gaming loads.

The big win with the GTX 1050 over the R7 is the power draw—it’s noticeably lower. Plus, it runs cooler and quieter than the Radeon. Right now, it’s an absolute steal. Nvidia nailed it with this one.

I'm seeing everyone slap an i5 into builds that are way overkill for what they actually need. $333 If you want to make this work, you’re going to have to cut corners elsewhere. My advice? Just grab whatever parts you can find at Best Buy. That i5 isn't worth the money—it's a bad investment. If you're dead set on going with Intel, just pick up an i3 instead. It'll save you $400.$167 It’s cheaper and gives you way better bang for your buck. You'll actually have cash left over to grab that 4GB of extra memory or whatever.

The motherboard is the heart of the rig. People try to cheap out there and end up paying for it later. Spend $500 on a decent board.$200 Keep it chill. Avoid those types. $100 Models.

If everyone there is an expert, then they're just like you. 😁 I'd rather not run into you at a Dell store anytime soon. 🙂

Austin Chavez6 said:Hey there,

It’s not quite a $5,000 build—maybe a little less than that—but still...
Let’s just say I’ve found a setup that hits all my requirements regarding components. Could someone give me an honest opinion on whether this is a decent deal, or if I can find something similar without emptying my wallet quite so much? 😁

Honestly, this build is a total disaster—do not buy this under any circumstances. ☕

@Flatiron,

You’re likely referring to my rather lukewarm enthusiasm regarding the i5 processor🙂,

From what I can gather, the guy just needs a machine for the occasional gaming session and churning out mountains of copy. Why hasn't anyone suggested an AMD APU for him?

.As an average user, where is he actually going to notice any real difference between an i5 and an i3?
Nowhere, absolutely nowhere.

Isn't it a bit of a glitch that they labeled the Intel Core i5 as the absolute best buy for the gaming industry?

I find myself wondering why nobody suggested he just grab an i7 instead. Honestly, I think you could fit one into a $1667 budget quite easily, wouldn't you agree?

This is specifically regarding the Samsung monitor.

If anyone wants to reach out via PM, I am happy to put together a full component list for you at prices lower than what you'd find at places like Micro Center or Best Buy—those shops with questionable reputations that operate on a "buy it and forget it" basis. Once something actually goes wrong, they just point you back to us or someone like Microsoft because they lack the actual technical capability to handle their own claims.

mellowtiger83 said:@Robert Rodriguez2,

You’re probably reacting to my lack of hype regarding the Intel Core i5🙂,

From what I gather, this guy just needs a rig for casual gaming and heavy typing. Why hasn't anyone suggested an AMD APU?

An average user won't notice any difference between an Intel Core i5 and an Intel Core i3div>>>. It's a wash.

Look, if the budget allows for an i5, grab it. He might not need the extra juice today, but in two months, he won't be stuck needing an upgrade for years. With an i3, he will.
Bottom line: if he wants to play even a little bit, a quad-core is a non-negotiable, especially if the money is there.

When it comes to gaming, the GPU is king anyway. Since he said he'll only play occasionally, I stood by my suggestion.

mellowtiger83 said:Isn't the AMD 760 declared a best buy for gaming?

Why isn't anyone suggesting an i7? I bet he could squeeze that into his budget too, right? $1667,

This is directed at Robert Rodriguez2!!

Sure, but as a chip for a bottom-tier build, it's nothing special. 🙂

mellowtiger83 said:If anyone wants to DM me, I can put together a full parts list for less than what you'd find at places like ADM, Best Buy, or Protis—those shops with questionable reputations where you order something and then get ghosted when you try to return it because they don't have the staff to handle it themselves.

If I recall correctly, you aren't allowed to run ads for your own business on this forum. If you want to help people, stick to DMs.

Hi there
I'm looking for a PC for my nephew so he can play the latest games, but I need to stay under $1667. I've seen people on here saying to avoid pre-built setups, but honestly, I just don't have the time to pick out individual parts and assemble it myself. I don't want to end up wasting money on something subpar. Since this is a business expense, I really need to make sure I get a proper receipt for the tax write-off...
Does anyone have any suggestions on what to look for or where to buy?

Bradley Wright47 said:Hey there!
I'm looking to put together a PC for my nephew so he can play modern games, but I need to keep the total cost under $1667. Looking through the forums here, it seems like buying pre-built rigs isn't always the best move, but honestly, I don't have the spare time to source individual parts and assemble it myself. I'm a bit lost and really want to avoid wasting money on junk. Plus, since this is a gift from my company, I absolutely need a proper receipt for the reimbursement process...
Any advice on what to get or where to look?

Take a look at this build from adm.hr (they offer free assembly and shipping)

1 x SAPPHIRE AMD Radeon R9 280 3
1 x Intel Core i5-3350P 3.1
1 x MSI B75MA-E33, Socket : 1155, microATX, Intel B75, 2xDDR3
1 x DDR3 8GB (1x8GB) Kingston, HyperX Fury, 1600MHz, CL10
1 x Caviar Blue 3.5, 1000 GB, SATA3,64 MB, 3,5"
1 x XFX TS Series 550W PSU -P1550S-XXB9
1 x Samsung SH-224DB sat Bulk Black, SATA
1 x Zalman ZM-T1 PLUS micro tower case. 189(W) x 427,5(H) x 364(D)mm

$1650

Everything will run like a dream on this setup.