Hi all!
I built my computer in 2013 and have updated a couple parts since then. My current build is:
PCPartPicker part list /
Price breakdown by merchant
CPU: Intel Core i5-3570K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($275.00 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 Plus 76.8 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($24.88 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: ASRock Z77 Pro4 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard
Memory: ADATA XPG V1.0 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory
Storage: Samsung 850 EVO-Series 500GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($177.92 @ Amazon)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($57.66 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: MSI GeForce GTX 970 4GB Twin Frozr V Video Card ($369.00 @ Jet)
Case: NZXT Tempest 210 ATX Mid Tower Case
Power Supply: XFX TS 650W 80+ Gold Certified ATX Power Supply ($78.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Monitor: Asus VS228H-P 21.5" 1920x1080 Monitor ($99.99 @ Amazon)
Now, in the next couple weeks I'm looking at upgrading a few parts, particularly the CPU, GPU, Mobo, and Case.
I've overclocked my i5-3570k and it's been performing nicely, however I do a fair amount of 3D-modeling work in addition to gaming (gaming is still the primary reason I'm upgrading), so I figure a CPU upgrade will help out with modeling+render times. I was just thinking of going with the new i7-7700k.
For a GPU, I'm pretty sure I'm going to upgrade to a 1070 or a 1080 (unsure as of now). Any advice on what brand/type of card? I've done some research and it seems that people really like the MSI version as well as ASUS Strix version.
The i7 isn't compatible with my current mobo so I'd have to upgrade it too. I do like ASRock (I like their bios), but I really don't have the faintest idea of what mobos are considered good/reliable these days. I saw in the build of the month there was an ASUS mobo used, but everyone says ASUS customer service is bad so I'm a little hesitant going with them (making me hesitant on purchasing an ASUS GPU too).
Lastly, the case. If I could go back in time to when I first built my comp I would have purchased a bigger case. As of now, it's a mess inside because of how limited I am with room. I can practically hear my 970 crying because of how awkwardly it's fitted. Something bigger that would fit a 1070/1080 along with the new mobo is really all I want (don't care too much about aesthetics, but I won't shy away from pretty). Not too concerned about budget, so feel free to recommend whatever.
P.S. Do you think getting a new CPU Cooler would be beneficial?
Thanks again for reading this, and I appreciate any input!