I'm diving into building a PC for the first time! I've always bought pre-built ones, but I'm tired of the limitations. I'm particularly interested in creating a Sleeper PC with an old case so I can have a CD/DVD slot. I know I need some basic components like RAM, a motherboard, a CPU, and a case, but I'm a bit lost on what else I need or which specific models to choose. My budget is around $2,000. Oh, and I have a cat who loves to sit on top of my PC! Any advice would be really appreciated!
3 Answers
You're off to a great start! Just keep in mind you'll need a PSU (power supply unit) and storage as well. Also, make sure your CPU doesn't lack integrated graphics because you'll need a dedicated graphics card then. It's essential to check for compatibility between the CPU, motherboard, and RAM. A modular PSU can help you manage cables better too, which makes building easier! What do you plan to use your computer for?
For gaming, I'd recommend the AMD Ryzen 9 9800X3D processor. For the graphics card, you can go with either a 5070 Ti or if you can stretch your budget, a 5080 would be even better. If you have a Micro Center nearby, that could help with getting some parts more affordably!
You don't necessarily need to get an old case for a DVD drive, but if you're aiming for that Sleeper aesthetic, it might be a bit pricier. For performance, focus on the CPU and GPU, as those make the biggest difference. You might encounter bottlenecking issues, but sites like howmanyfps.com can help you maximize performance based on the parts you choose. I also recommend reading some other threads about first-time builds as you'll find tons of valuable insights there!
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