I've been wanting to build a PC for five years, and I finally decided to jump in! I've created a parts list for my build, which you can check out here: [PCPartPicker Link](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/Y9LHxf). I'm looking for some advice on whether my selections are good for my needs. This PC will mainly be used for game development, gaming, 3D modeling, and content creation, while also handling some basic tasks. I'm planning to keep the budget under $2,000 and will be buying components like the GPU, CPU, and motherboard from eBay. I also want to replace the RAM, so I appreciate constructive feedback on my choices. If anyone has tips on what to avoid or how to fix potential mistakes, that would be super helpful! Thanks!
4 Answers
If you're looking for RAM, watch out for deals on dual-channel sets. You might find 32GB DDR5 for under $300 if you browse sales regularly. Also, consider an air cooler like the Peerless Assassin instead of an AIO—it's just as effective and doesn't risk leaking water all over your parts.
Check this out: https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/s/sMGZ1olCV8. You can often find great deals, like 32GB of DDR5 RAM for under $300. Trust me, it'll give you better performance than what's listed in your build!
If you're in the U.S., see if there's a Microcenter nearby. They often have combo deals for CPUs, motherboards, and RAM that could save you a chunk of cash—even a longer drive could be worthwhile. Also, think about cheaper 2TB NVME drives; they can save you some dough. By the way, your case doesn't have a front USB-C port, which is something to consider.
Air coolers like dual tower models cool just as well as AIOs, but without the risk of water damage to your expensive components. Plus, AIOs can be pricier and rely on pumps that can fail over time, which complicates things.
So it sounds like using air coolers is more about reliability, then?
I've seen that cooler suggested often too. What's the advantage of using that over an AIO?