Hey everyone! I'm excited to start building my first PC, aiming for early 2026. I'll mainly be using it for training machine learning models and experimenting with stable diffusion, particularly YOLO and SDXL. I also want to run Comfyui for image and video generation. I'm considering a used NVIDIA 3090 GPU despite knowing it's not the best for video tasks, as budget is a factor. I'm flexible but looking to keep the total build around $3,000. While gaming isn't a priority, I might use the PC for 3D modeling and CAD work, which I'm currently managing on my Mac mini M4 without issues.
Since I'm new to PC building, I could really use some advice on which parts to choose and any resources or tutorials that could help me learn more about the process. I also plan on having a Linux setup. Thanks a ton for any help you can provide!
5 Answers
Welcome to the building journey! For your CPU, I recommend considering AMD options but avoid those ending in X3D—they're great for gaming but not the best for rendering and CAD tasks. Check out JAWA for used parts; they have good deals, although I wouldn’t recommend financing. Regarding RAM, prices are all over the place right now, especially for DDR4 and DDR5, so check Microcenter for fair pricing. A tip I received is to gather all your parts before starting the build to avoid any mishaps. And don’t miss tech channels like Linus Tech Tips and Hardware Canucks for ideas—it’s very helpful! Best of luck!
Honestly, you can get much better GPU options within your budget than a used 3090. There are a lot of great components available that might fit your needs even better.
You might want to seriously rethink the 3090 for your needs. For $3,000, you can aim higher. Look into financing through retailers like Microcenter to get the best components you need for 3D modeling and machine learning tasks. Spend some time researching part tier lists, especially for CPUs and GPUs. Tools like PC Part Picker can help with compatibility—you can even find builds to mimic if you’re unsure where to start!
Definitely consider the 4090 if your budget allows, especially for your intended use. It usually performs better, though it might not have as much VRAM as the 3090.
Check out Newegg's PC build tool—it’s handy for estimating components and costs. When building, I can’t stress enough the importance of good cooling and a reliable power supply. Cool components can save you a lot of trouble later! Also, it's worth mentioning that RAM prices are crazy right now, so make sure to shop smart.
Just a heads up, Nvidia is cutting production by 40% in early 2026, which might spike prices. So, if you find decent components, grab them now instead of waiting!
Would getting a 4090 be better? I see it priced at $1500 at Microcenter, while the 3090 is about $800. I'm new to this, so I'm unsure about the best options and what accessories I might need.