Building new computer - anybody have good advice?

DBA said:
Ok I'm also one of these "frugal people" however I realize that sometimes you have spend a tad more so that it's cheaper in the long run (especially in electronics). What they're trying to point out is that by trying to save money by using your old Mini case, you're actually making the build cost more. The items you linked to are already way outdated and cost more as they're Mini form factor. IMO you'd be better off in the longer run getting a more robust bare bones system. Overall it'll be cheaper per year in its lifespan, which is what us frugal people are really after.

For example here's a low end system that has everything you need (including Windows 7) for $483
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2317262&CatId=5205

However I'd suggest moving up to something like this (i5) as it's lifespan will be longer.
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2580461&CatId=4910
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I made a quick wish list just for comparison: $330 + $60 (computer case) = $390
Notice it is very similarly specified, same processor and the motherboard has almost the exact same features. And for giggles, notice the Intel motherboard I listed in my first post - it has the H67 chipset
Comparing it to your first group package you linked, which is $483
Then take note of the items I listed I currently already own: ATX Power supply, wifi card, two modern hard drives, and 1 older 2.5" hard drive, and even a DVD-rom

For this example I'm spending $93 less; sure the tiger direct package includes a hard drive, dvd-rom, one very ugly computer case, and probably a cheap and noisy power supply

The items I listed are not way outdated; furthermore, for clarification I said "somewhat" frugal :p

Digital Doctor said:
...

Not going to happen.

If you want a reasonable PC with your Mini ITX case, you are looking at $650-$700...
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Reasonable for you maybe, but I don't need a power house.
AMD "example" $330.. I will even throw in the case, $390
 
There is a difference between cheap and frugal

Frugal is a more disciplined fashion so as not to overspend. I buy for value, and enjoy spending money to an extend. I'm proud that half of my income goes towards savings, but I can still lavish a little.

I'm not building a special computer, because I don't need anything powerful. I just want to make sure things are compatible and see what others advise.

DBA said:
Huh, what does that have to do with anything?

For the record my site does use XF for its forum.
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Just giving you a taste of your own medicine.
 
Well, I finally put together my new computer. Running a new ASRock H77 motherboard, Intel 120GB SSD, and I bought the Ivy Bridge i3-3220 they just released this month! As well as re-using some left over parts.

Still have some things to sort out, but I'm happy with it. SSD has a noticeable boost in Windows loading, and things just snap open.
 
intushour said:
Read online.
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Funny, if people didn't ask questions there would be even less content online. One thing I have learned, even when I think I know the answers to a subject I still ask for advice on forums... surprisingly there is always something new to learn.

Unfortunately, this thread left me feeling attacked and I gained no new knowledge
 
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