I'm gearing up to build my very first PC and I've put together a list of components. However, I'm really looking to keep the costs down since my budget is quite tight. I'd love any tips or tricks to lower the total without sacrificing too much quality. Here's the link to my current parts list: [PCPartPicker List](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/2m4Kt3).
5 Answers
You can save a ton by dropping the liquid cooler in favor of a solid air cooler, like the Thermalright Peerless Assassin, which is usually under $50. Trust me, liquid cooling is a bit overkill for most CPUs, especially yours. That switch could easily save you around $150!
First off, consider skipping Windows 11 if you're really looking to save. I use a site called Stack Social to snag a W11 Pro key for around $15, and it's been smooth sailing for me since! That could save you about $100 right there. Also, you might get away with a 750W power supply, which could still provide decent flexibility for upgrades down the line without breaking the bank. If you're eyeing the aesthetics of a liquid cooler, you might want to check out air coolers as they can save some cash and do a great job too!
If gaming is your main goal, a 7600X should handle most games well without the need for a pricey cooling solution. For storage, check if cheaper options like WD or Crucial SSDs are available; they perform well for less. Also, grab the cheapest but reliable RAM at 6000MHz and see if a non-modular PSU fits your needs—it'll help save some bucks. And for Windows, I’ve seen keys going for just a couple of dollars online—just look for reputable sources!
Think about checking out used parts if you can. They can be a solid way to get more bang for your buck. Also, I heard those Intel Arc cards are being valued for money, so if you're looking to save but still want performance, they might be worth checking out! Just be careful with driver issues in some games.
With the CPU you're considering, you might not even need that expensive AIO cooler. A good fan cooler like the Peerless Assassin or Noctua NH-D15 will do just fine for cooling. Also, you could probably scale down your PSU to something around 750W unless you're planning some major upgrades soon. And don't forget about the case; getting a cheaper one that still has good airflow could save you some cash too!
Haha, I actually forgot I had Windows 11 in my build! I’ll definitely check out the power supply options too. And about the cooler, yeah, I just love how the AIO looks. But I’ll see if there's a good air cooler that can look decent as well.