$1500 Gaming Computer Build 2017
**Article: A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Custom PC**
**Introduction**
Welcome to an in-depth look at building a custom PC, captured through the detailed transcription of a video by a passionate DIY enthusiast. This article will walk you through each component chosen for this build, highlighting their specifications, considerations, and the personal journey of assembling them.
**The Power Supply: EVGA Supernova 650 G2 Gold Certified**
Starting with the power supply, the builder opted for an EVGA Supernova 650 G2, a gold certified unit. This choice emphasizes reliability and efficiency, crucial for protecting hardware investments. The decision reflects a commitment to quality, ensuring consistent power delivery despite the higher cost.
**The CPU Cooler: Hyper 212 Evo**
For cooling, the builder faced challenges with fitting the Kraken x61, eventually settling on the Hyper 212 Evo as a budget-friendly alternative. This cooler offers excellent performance at an affordable price, making it a strong contender for those seeking value without compromising on efficiency.
**The Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-AB350-Gaming K3**
The motherboard selected is the Gigabyte GA-AB350-Gaming K3, targeting the gaming market with LED features and essential functionalities. Priced at around £128, it provides a balance of cost and performance, offering sufficient features for the intended build.
**The CPU: Intel Core i5 7600K**
At the heart of this system lies the Intel Core i5 7600K, an unlocked processor with potential for overclocking. The builder's excitement about exploring its limits is evident, reflecting a desire to maximize performance within feasible bounds.
**The Graphics Card: GTX 1060**
The graphics card chosen is the NVIDIA GTX 1060 (6GB), known for its balance of power and price. Despite rising costs post-purchase, it offers strong performance against higher-end models, making it a wise investment for gaming needs.
**The Storage Solutions: SSD and HDD**
For storage, an SSD provides fast data access, paired with a terabyte hard drive for additional space. This combination balances speed and capacity, essential for modern computing demands.
**The Memory: Corsair Vengeance LED**
Memory selection went to Corsair's Vengeance LED series in red, chosen for its affordability and aesthetics. The builder highlights the importance of CPU cooler clearance, underscoring practical considerations alongside aesthetics.
**The Case: MasterCase Pro 6**
The case selected is Cooler Master's MasterCase Pro 6, designed with ample space but posing fitting challenges for certain components like the Kraken x61 cooler. Despite this, it offers a solid foundation for housing other components comfortably.
**Personal Experiences and Challenges**
Throughout the build, the builder encountered several challenges, notably fitting the Kraken x61 cooler and dealing with front fan placement issues. These experiences highlight the patience and adaptability required in PC building, with some compromises made to achieve a functional setup.
**Cost Breakdown**
The total cost of this build is approximately £1,400, reflecting investments in quality components across various categories. This breakdown underscores the financial considerations involved in constructing a high-performance PC.
**Conclusion: Plans for Future Updates**
Currently, the builder aims to finalize the system setup and tidy up cables. Once equipped with a new microphone, plans are underway to produce a detailed video guide, offering insights into the build process and final aesthetics.
This article captures the essence of a custom PC build, blending technical details with personal anecdotes. It serves as both a guide and inspiration for aspiring builders, illustrating the thought process and considerations behind each component choice. Stay tuned for future updates as the builder continues to refine this system!