I'm speaking to those with experience building or having bought gaming computers. Long story short I'm broke, unemployed, and just graduated from Architecture school. My Dell D800 has been put through the ringer and is one of the worst things I've ever bought (blame the school). I've been planning on buying a new computer when i get a job but I was exploring the options of building a computer. Is it cheaper to build your own? A few weeks ago my LCD went out, and today my motherboard went out..i had a spare old one but I don't think it'll last long. Obviously since i'm broke I don't have the money for a decent computer but I was thinking that if I laid out a plan I could collect the parts over the next few months and put it together....or buy a good one if someone can back up that they really like theirs and it's worth the $. I'm looking for a computer that is less about gaming and more a beast for my digital modeling. I do a ton of work in Revit, Max, Adobe workshop, Vray, Rhino, Maya, Sketchup, AutoCAD...pretty much the works. I need something that runs fast, let's me multi-task, and renders quickly. I'm not computer illiterate but I'm a computer virgin when it comes to selecting components. I'm looking for a fast processor, a motherboard that will support upgrades, takes a lot of ram, etc. Anyone have the know how that can spit some info out, or at least push me towards a good up to date source (keyword is up to date) on what's a good bang for your buck? Thanks in advance guys.
Newegg.com - Computer Parts, PC Components, Laptop Computers, Digital Cameras and more! The 2008 PC Builder's Bible | GamesRadar I do believe it's cheaper to build your own. I never have but new egg is a good place to buy merch and the second link will speak for itself.
My parents bought a TV capability computer for under 1 grand with 6 Gigs of ram Quad Core and a 9500 GT Video card. IT can run every game with ease. Of course in about 4 years a New card will take its place.