New Build for Wife

[Kailasa]

Hi,

I'm building a new computer for my wife. She is going to primarily use it for word processing, Excel, surfing the internet and watching videos/movies on it. No gaming. I would like feedback on the components I am using. I am using some parts that may seem a little overkill, but that's because I want to future proof a little more. Please let me know what you think

Thank you,

Kail



NZXT Phantom 410 Series CA-PH410-W1 Black/White Steel / Plastic ATX Mid Tower Computer Case
Model #:CA-PH410-W1
Item #:N82E16811146087
Return Policy:Standard Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$99.99 $99.99


Update

ASRock Z97 Extreme4 LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

ASRock Z97 Extreme4 LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard
Model #:Z97 EXTREME4
Item #:N82E16813157503
Return Policy:Standard Return Policy
In Stock
Mail in Rebate

Note (Add)
$145.99 -$2.00 Instant $143.99


Update

CORSAIR CXM series CX500M 500W ATX12V v2.3 SLI CrossFire 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply

CORSAIR CXM series CX500M 500W ATX12V v2.3 SLI CrossFire 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply
Model #:CP-9020059-NA
Item #:N82E16817139050
Return Policy:Standard Return Policy
In Stock
Mail in Rebate Card

Note (Add)
$79.99 -$20.00 Instant $59.99


Update

Intel Core i5-4460 Haswell Quad-Core 3.2GHz LGA 1150 Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics 4600 BX80646I54460

Intel Core i5-4460 Haswell Quad-Core 3.2GHz LGA 1150 Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics 4600 BX80646I54460
Model #:BX80646I54460
Item #:N82E16819117302
Return Policy:CPU Replacement Only Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$189.99 $189.99


Update

SAMSUNG 840 EVO MZ-7TE250BW 2.5" 250GB SATA 6Gb/s TLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)

SAMSUNG 840 EVO MZ-7TE250BW 2.5" 250GB SATA 6Gb/s TLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)
Model #:MZ-7TE250BW
Item #:N82E16820147248
Return Policy:Limited Replacement Only Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$189.99 -$60.00 Instant $129.99


Update

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL
Model #:F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL
Item #:N82E16820231314
Return Policy:Memory Standard Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$82.99 $82.99


Update

ASUS DVD-Writer Black SATA Model DRW-24F1ST

ASUS DVD-Writer Black SATA Model DRW-24F1ST - OEM
Model #RW-24F1ST
Item #:N82E16827135305

 

[brevin]

If you're not gaming on the computer, there really isn't a need to get an i5 or a z77 chipset mobo. You can downgrade to an i3, cheaper mobo, and 4gb of ram, and it should still be fine.

 

[Essence_of_War]

I would like feedback on the components I am using. I am using some parts that may seem a little overkill, but that's because I want to future proof a little more. Please let me know what you think

Kail,

Would you mind answering the questions here? It's difficult to offer productive feedback on a parts list without knowing things like budget, where you're purchasing parts from, etc.

 

[escrow4]

I'd keep the i5 at least. You can't really futureproof most PC's but a basic box will last ages with an i5 and its easier to repurpose than an i3. Plus it will be a way better all rounder in future if you start running some grunt work. Z97 if you want/need the slots and ports otherwise H97, you want ALC 1150 as a minimum though for the onboard sound.

 

[Kailasa]

Hi Essence of War,

i went ahead and posted there as suggested, answering the questions.

Thank you,

Allan

 

[caden]

For her usage, I'd definitely be looking at one of those Intel NUC/Gigabyte Brix/ZBOX Sphere, etc. setups. A couple sticks of RAM and a SSD and you're done.

If she really needs a dvd drive, get a portable USB one that she can keep in a drawer and plug in when needed.

I don't see the point of a full-blown system for that kind of minimal usage, and IMHO, it's a waste of money to try and "future proof" such a minimal system.

Just my 2 cents.

 

[caden]

Hi Essence of War,

i went ahead and posted there as suggested, answering the questions.

Thank you,

Allan

Hi Allan, he meant look at the questions there, but post your answers for them here in this thread.

 

[Kailasa]

Oops sorry about that. Here's the answers to the questions:

1. My wife will be using this for word processing, Excel, watching movies and streams, and general internet surfing like Facebook or news.

2.Budget will be no more than $1500.00 with monitor included

3. United States

4. This will be from Newegg.com(possibly Amazon in some cases if cheaper.)

5. Will definitely use Intel for CPU and for Power Supply, it will either be Seasonic, PC Power and Cooling or Corsair(Although, I can be persuaded for a different brand, if it's good.)

6. This will be a completely new build. No used parts.

7. No overclocking. This will just be used at standard speeds.

8. Resolution around 1920x1200

9. Building as soon as I finalize the parts.

10. I will be purchasing Windows 8.1 retail full version, so if I ever need to move it to another computer, I'll be able to.

Here are the current parts, I'm considering. Input is very welcome. The 4 motherboards I've listed I'm still trying to make a final decision on. Also, my wife wants a unique and "funky" mid tower case. Any suggestions for that as well.

Thank you,

Kail



NZXT Phantom 410 Series CA-PH410-W1 Black/White Steel / Plastic ATX Mid Tower Computer Case
Model #:CA-PH410-W1
Item #:N82E16811146087
Return Policy:Standard Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$99.99 $99.99


Update

ASRock Z97 Extreme4 LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

ASRock Fatal1ty Z97 Killer LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

GIGABYTE GA-Z97X-UD5H LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

GIGABYTE GA-Z97-D3H LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard



Update

CORSAIR CXM series CX500M 500W ATX12V v2.3 SLI CrossFire 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply

CORSAIR CXM series CX500M 500W ATX12V v2.3 SLI CrossFire 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply
Model #:CP-9020059-NA
Item #:N82E16817139050
Return Policy:Standard Return Policy
In Stock
Mail in Rebate Card

Note (Add)
$79.99 -$20.00 Instant $59.99


Update

Intel Core i5-4460 Haswell Quad-Core 3.2GHz LGA 1150 Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics 4600 BX80646I54460

Intel Core i5-4460 Haswell Quad-Core 3.2GHz LGA 1150 Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics 4600 BX80646I54460
Model #:BX80646I54460
Item #:N82E16819117302
Return Policy:CPU Replacement Only Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$189.99 $189.99


Update

SAMSUNG 840 EVO MZ-7TE250BW 2.5" 250GB SATA 6Gb/s TLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)

SAMSUNG 840 EVO MZ-7TE250BW 2.5" 250GB SATA 6Gb/s TLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)
Model #:MZ-7TE250BW
Item #:N82E16820147248
Return Policy:Limited Replacement Only Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$189.99 $189.99


Update

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL
Model #:F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL
Item #:N82E16820231314
Return Policy:Memory Standard Return Policy
In Stock

Note (Add)
$82.99 $82.99


Update

ASUS DVD-Writer Black SATA Model DRW-24F1ST

ASUS DVD-Writer Black SATA Model DRW-24F1ST - OEM
Model #RW-24F1ST
Item #:N82E16827135305

 

[Insert_Nickname]

Mainboard:
Do you intend to overclock or have need of some special feature of the Z97 chipset? If that's not the case use a H97 board instead. That will save some cash you can out towards a better CPU f.x.

CPU:
Good. For web surfing etc. a fast i3(-4360/70) will suffice, but there is nothing wrong with a bit of future-proofing.

PSU:
Corsair CX's are fine. For such a non-gaming system you only really need the 430W version, but if you can get a 500W for the same cost there is nothing wrong in that.
If you want to splunge a bit, you should check out the Seasonic SSR-360GP 80+ Gold. While not necessary, its a little luxury add-on.

SSD:
Fine. Either the MX100 or 840EVO are secure choices.

RAM:
Depends on deals. Just avoid CL11 memory and you'll be fine.

 

[Essence_of_War]

I agree with a lot of what Insert_Nickname has said, especially regarding motherboards. Z97 chipset is mainly for overclocking, or if it happens to be bundled with some other component you need at an aggressive price point. If not, you're likely spending money for little-to-no added value.

CPU-wise, I like i5's too, but any modern i3's will perform as well in the sort of tasks that you're listing. If you wanted a very compact/SFF build, you sound like you'd be a fine candidate for an AMD APU, but since your wife wants a mid-tower, and you have a deep budget, I'd go for the Intel CPU with an entry level GPU.

Here's what I might build:
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

CPU: Intel Core i3-4130 3.4GHz Dual-Core Processor ($119.99 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: ASRock H97 PRO4 ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($88.99 @ Mwave)
Memory: Team Vulcan 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($139.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Crucial MX100 256GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($108.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: EVGA GeForce GTX 750 1GB Video Card ($89.99 @ Newegg)
Case: NZXT Phantom 240 ATX Mid Tower Case ($62.99 @ Amazon)
Power Supply: EVGA 500W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($35.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24F1ST DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (32/64-bit) ($103.94 @ NCIX US)
Total: $765.85
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-08-06 08:44 EDT-0400

The Dell u2412m is my go-to 1920x1200 IPS monitor:
You can get it opened but returned, unused for ~$230, or new for ~$260

Here's a decent Asus one for $215 AR, doesn't have all of the ergnonomic adjustments of the ultrasharp series, though.

Total: $765.85 + (up to) $260 = $1025.85

Optional:
1) Toss-in an aftermarket CPU Cooler to keep the fan noise down:
CM EVO for $25 AR,AP
2) If you prefer SeaSonic (although I think that EVGA unit is solid), here's a 400W Bronze SeaSonic for $44

Total (including OS, Monitor, and optional CPU Cooler): $1025.85 + $25 = $1050.85

You have lots of case options, I guess the real question is what your wife considers "funky".
The Corsair Air 540 is different looking.
I find the NZXT 410 and NZXT 240 (which I included above!) pretty attractive in a different-looking way.

If none of those strike her fancy, have her flip through something like this:
Hardware Canucks Video Case Reviews and see if something there strikes her fancy

 

[mvbighead]

I'd agree with some of the other guys here (Essence of War and Insert_Nickname). By and large, you're not future proofing, you're just wasting money with some of the components you've listed.

For requirements of watching videos, office, and a few others, there is no reason to think she is going to be much beyond some standard components. Your wife is going to see more benefit from a better keyboard/mouse/speakers and monitor than she will from ANY of the extra expenses you're throwing in on the build alone.

Here is something I would do if I had $1500 to spend:

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/LzLrqs
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/LzLrqs/by_merchant/

CPU: Intel Core i5-4460 3.2GHz Quad-Core Processor ($184.99 @ NCIX US)
Motherboard: ASRock H97M Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($75.66 @ Newegg)
Memory: PNY Optima 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory ($67.49 @ Amazon)
Storage: Crucial MX100 256GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($104.99 @ NCIX US)
Case: Corsair 200R ATX Mid Tower Case ($39.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: Corsair Builder 430W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($19.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: LG UH12NS30 Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer ($34.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (32/64-bit) ($103.94 @ NCIX US)
Monitor: LG 25UM64-S 60Hz 25.0" Monitor ($229.99 @ Best Buy)
Keyboard: Logitech MK550 Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard w/Laser Mouse ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Speakers: Creative Labs Inspire T10 10W 2ch Speakers ($39.99 @ Adorama)
Total: $952.01
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-08-06 09:36 EDT-0400

I'd take the other $500 and take her out to dinner 5 or 6 times.

Still covers the Quad Core, 8GB of RAM (16GB is overkill for a web browsing office tasking machine), and a 250GB SSD. And I threw in a very high res monitor and good set of speakers as well as KB/Mouse.

 

[Kailasa]

Thank you all for the suggestions so far. I really appreciate it. I am at work, but when I have time, I'll revise my list of components and then list them here for a final look over.

Thank you,

Allan

 

[Kailasa]

Btw Essence of War, I noticed that the heatsink you listed doesn't seem to support LGA1150. Do you have any recommendations for one that supports that socket?

Thank you,

Allan

 

[mvbighead]

Btw Essence of War, I noticed that the heatsink you listed doesn't seem to support LGA1150. Do you have any recommendations for one that supports that socket?

Thank you,

Allan

The CPU fan he recommended does support 1150:

CPU Socket:
Intel Socket LGA 1150/2011/1366/1155/1150
AMD Socket FM1/FM2/AM3+

CPU Support:
Intel: Core i7 Extreme / Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3 / Core2 Extreme / Core2 Quad / Core2 Duo / Pentium / Celeron
AMD: FX-Series / A-Series / Phenom II X4 / Phenom II X3 / Phenom II X2 / Phenom X4 / Phenom X3 / Athlon II X4 / Athlon II X3 / Athlon II X2 / Athlon X2 / Athlon / Sempron

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16835103099

 

[Insert_Nickname]

The CPU fan he recommended does support 1150:

CPU Socket:
Intel Socket LGA 1150/2011/1366/1155/1150
AMD Socket FM1/FM2/AM3+

Actually LGA-1156/1155/1150 uses the exact same mounting, so if a cooler f.x. supports LGA-1156 it will fit the others too.

BTW, from what I've seen Skylakes LGA-1151 is the same as the others.