Hi guys, thanks in advance.
I'm seriously considering building my own rig. Got a few questions.
First off, are there any
reliable websites that have a compare and contrast function between various parts? I realize google is normally one's friend, but I have absolutely no idea if sites such as gpuboss.com are actually legit/reliable/good.
Secondly, the build of the month that gets posted on this website. Are these setups good? If so, are the links to the parts themselves generally the best (or close to it) deals one can find? If not, any helpful, again
reliable, websites out there with which I may purchase parts? I'm somewhat familiar with slickdeals.net and newegg.com.
Thirdly, I'd like to avoid downgrading, but due to the first point, find knowing if I'm downgrading or not difficult. I currently have an Alienware X51 R2 that I bought a few years back refurbished and on sale, something like 25% or 30% off. Current specs are as follows:
GGTX 760
I7-4770 @ 3.40 GHz
8gig RAM
Non SSD.
Compare that with any (and all?) of the current monthly builds seen here
http://www.mmo-champion.com/build-of-the-month/.
Fourthly, Aside from the actual hardware seen in the various builds... what other expenses should I expect to have to consider (things like OS licenses, office suites, etc.)? I mainly ask this because, as I stated, I'm new at this, and may not realize/think of everything I should consider.
Fifthly, any tips? I have some experience assembling computers... 16 years ago in high school, so I'm not completely ignorant, just mostly.