hennessybuilt
Description
I decided to take the plunge into the mysterious world of PC gaming. Having been a console gamer my entire life (Xbox, Play Station, etc.), I had no idea what to expect with this build. PC game play, gaming with a mouse and keyboard, this was totally foreign to me. All I knew is that I wanted to build my own gaming rig. I wanted to build something entry level, yet powerful. Something that I could be proud of and showcase every-time I step foot in my office. Something that I could brag about to my friends. Something that my wife would be embarrassed to mention around her friends. That last part is starting to come into fruition. Although she is coming around to the idea that I am a man of many hobbies. Or so I tell her.
Over the last two months I started to put together a list of parts that fell into my imaginary budget (1k to 1.5k). Before that, I must of watched 5 to 10 hours of random PC building videos on YouTube. I didn't want to be "that guy" that destroyed his entire build because he forgot to attach the static free wrist strap, or mistakenly put WAY too much thermal compound on the CPU and have to deal with over spill on the motherboard. I wanted to do this right. All I can say is YouTube is the way to go if you're ever in a bind and need some PC building advice. Although, it doesn't hurt to have a cousin who used to work for Best Buy's Geek Squad available via Google Duo to help on a moments notice (thanks Ski!).
"You need a gaming keyboard and mouse!" That's all I ever read online from anyone who preached PC gaming. I'll admit, it's difficult ditching the Xbox One controller. Especially since most PC games sync directly via blue tooth with the controller now. However, I'm committed. I will use the mouse and keyboard for PC gaming as soon as I finish this beer . . .
Anyway, I digress. This rig is going to be solely for gaming and entertainment purposes. I have another PC desktop in my office that I use for work. Therefore, I don't want any Microsoft office documents on this computer. I don't want my work files chewing away at my desktop space. Purely for gaming and entertainment. I'm serious. If I see so much as an Excel document on this rig at any point in time...I'll punch a baby.
I had a couple of bumps on the way. Downloaded Windows on the HDD at first by accident, when I wanted it on the SSD. Also, I installed the RAM incorrectly (please don't laugh). Seriously though, read the Gigabyte manual on my motherboard and tell me the RAM configuration diagram and verbiage aren't contradicting. At the end of the day, when you push that power button to fire up your first build - it's pretty damn sweet. I built this rig and can't wait to start gaming on it.
That's it. Let me know what you think.
Best Cinebench Score: 1799 (with XMP Profile)
Part Reviews
CPU
AMD or Intel. Intel or AMD. For the price of the Ryzen 2700x, you can't beat the performance value. Great CPU so far. No serious complaints. Minor concern is the core voltage has fluctuated as high as 1.48 volts. I've read in various Ryzen forums that this is common place. Alarming, but nothing to get too concerned over. My idle temp is always around 36c.
Purchase Price: $309.96
CPU Cooler
Excellent AIO cooler. Had great reviews online. Keeps everything nice and cool. 240mm radiator fits my Thermaltake case nicely and I wanted the AIO in the front, so that the tubes weren't contorted in anyway.
Purchase Price: $79.99
Motherboard
For my first ever entry level PC build, this motherboard is all I need. I was desperate for something with strong WiFi, due to my office location in my home being so far away from the router. I wouldn't recommend this motherboard for serious over clocking. XMP profile is the only thing I've messed with so far. Orange wasn't my first choice for the color, but it's not terrible. The RAM configuration instruction is a bit contradictory. You'll see what I mean when you download the instructions manual.
Purchase Price: $159.99
Memory
RAM working nicely so far. Fast. No complaints.
Purchase Price: 140.99
Storage
Lightening fast SSD. Slightly cheaper than a similar Samsung model and worth every penny. Totally noticed the difference once I downloaded Windows on this hard drive. Computer boots up in under 25 seconds. Games load quickly. Highly recommend.
Purchase Price: $159.99
Storage
Wanted a back up drive for music, photos and anything outside of games. Works nicely.
Purchase Price: $44.99
Video Card
She's a beast. Love this GPU and it fits my entry level rig nicely. Sure I'd like some customization on the RGB lettering on the front panel, but who cares! Can't wait to sync this GPU with an Nvidia G-Sync monitor down the road. Highly recommend the 1070.
Purchase Price: $379.99
Case
Decided to go low end (in terms of price) on the case. I'd rather have pretty stuff on the inside, moreover than the outside of the rig. Yet, it looks pretty schnazzy. Cable management in the back of the case is easier than I expected. Came with one Thermaltake fan as an exhaust, which I altered to the bottom of the case as an intake.
Purchase Price: $56.52
Power Supply
I stressed over the power supply. Wanted something with "gold" verbiage to help me sleep better at night. Last thing I needed was the power supply taking a dump and putting the whole system in jeopardy. Reviews were fantastic. I now understand why modular is easier to work with during the set-up stage. Modular all the way.
Purchase Price: $59.99
Operating System
I'm used to Windows 10 now. Good bye 7. Go with a digital download/code online to save some money.
Purchase Price: $49.99
Case Fan
These fans work great. Purchased two to compliment the orange motherboard. Placed these bad boys on the back and top as an exhaust.
Purchase Price: $12.99/each
Mouse
Excellent mouse. I needed one for my new rig with some RGB features, plus it's designed for gaming. Win win.
Purchase Price: $29.99
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