Budget AMD build, max longevity

J

jamesrb

[H]ard|Gawd
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Jul 29, 2004
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Doing a budget build. Not having any problems with it, but wanted to get some other opinions for a change. Mainly just bored and wanted to see if anyone else has some ideas different from my own.

Need motherboard, CPU, and RAM for $320 max. Money is an issue, so cheaper is better. Longevity is key here since this person will probably want to keep using this for the next 10 years.

1. Total - $313 (+ $10 MIR)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.500642
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145251

2. Total - $295 (+ $15 MIR)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103703
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.492651

3. Total - $293 (+ $15 MIR)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103699
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.492651


Other notes:
- I would consider going with an Intel build if it offers better performance at the price. I can't come up with any Intel build that comes close however.
- If using AMD, I have a used Scythe Infinity or an unused Phenom II 955 heatsink/fan that I can use in the build.
- Will be using a used SilverStone Zeus ST85ZF 850W PSU. This is the Etasis built model.
- Will be using an old generic mid tower.
- Will be using a leftover Windows Vista Ultimate x64 license that I have.
- Need to get an optical drive and hard drive. Plan on purchasing these, for a grand total of a $390 budget (figuring $10 shipping will hit the real max of $400).
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136074
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827118039


EDIT: Also, gaming, unlocking, and overclocking are not in consideration for this build.
 
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The only tidbit I can offer is CPU-wise. I think you are going the right direction with the 3GHz Athlon II quad. I've built some friends ~500-600 gaming rigs, and every one of them I selected the Athlon II X4. I, personally, am using a Phenom II X4 (3GHz), but it retails (or did when I bought it) about $50 more.

The Athlon quad is an amazing value. It's been able to run new stuff (BFBC2 is a good example) without coming anywhere near 100% CPU usage. For 100 USD I don't think you can go wrong with it. I don't plan on upping my CPU for some years, and I definitely think the quad-Athlons have the longevity you're looking for.

Edit: I saw your edit. Seeing how gaming is not an issue for you, that CPU should last you a LONG time. I don't think we're anywhere near days when mainstream/casual apps will tax quads.
I would consider going with an Intel build if it offers better performance at the price. I can't come up with any Intel build that comes close however.
Click to expand...
I don't think you will, at least as far as processors are concerned.
 
I was able to score a 1055t, msi 785G-E53 motherboard, and 4gb of DDR3 1600 for $315 after rebate at microcenter (including tax).

You may want to go that route.
 
The Microcenter deal appears to be in stores only. None around here so I am out of luck for that.

You inspired me to check for better combo deals on the higher price CPUs.

I am thinking this now:

Total $323 (using promo code for $10 off the RAM)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.502082
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820146740


Also found I can save some money by getting this hard drive instead (using $15 promo code):
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136073
 
Do u have frys near by?
Try to spend most of money on cpu/mobo everything else can be added later on(mem,hdd,vga) but mobo And cpu needs to be replaced
 
Used two of those phenoms tri-cores now off newegg in builds. Both unlocked, both overclock like a beast - but not as well as the 555/955s. I think the three cores are c2 stepping? Anyway, hard to go wrong for the price.
 
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