Calling All Computer Techies!

[PepsiRacer4]

So I need some opinions. I really want to upgrade my PC so it can run games better, such as NR2003, NBA2k12, etc.. Would I be better off upgrading my PC or trying to build one from ground up?

 

[Notch]

Well,I would recommend upgrading it because it is a lot easier than building one from scratch, and probably it would be more inexspensive

 

[BillyJack79]

What are you currently running?

 

[Paul Johnson]

We can't really tell you what to do unless you post the specs of your current machine.

 

[TheSleekNinja]

I would build one. Its easy to do. Once you get all the required parts, just ask someone what goes where or what not if your not sure.

 

[PepsiRacer4]

Sorry about not posting the specs guys, should've noted I was on the family computer at the time. Here are my current specs, I think my only main worry is my graphics card which I've read is WAY out of date:
Windows 7 64-bit OS
AMD Athlon Processor 2850e, 1.8GHz
2 GB of RAM
Nvidia GeForce 6150SE nForce 430, with about 889 MB I'm getting with it.

If I missed anything lemme know, and sorry again for not listing them off the bat.

 

[Paul Johnson]

Build one IMO, Most likely your mobo is out of date so you can't upgrade the ram/processor much at all.
You can get a Quad core with a GTX 560 with 4-6 gigs of ram for around $600ish

 

[PepsiRacer4]

I'd love to do that, unfortunately businesses don't want to hire 17 year olds. I've been looking for a job for the longest time and have had no luck. I mean I do get money from mowing lawns and such but that certainly wouldn't fit the bill for all of the things I'd need and gas money/insurance.

 

[scottw73]

I would definitely build one, especially if your going to be gaming, Yes you could buy one but they are expensive, but if you know what you want and shop around for the parts, you'll be much more satisfied.

 

[David24]

The processor you have now is your problem I think. Your graphics cars isn't THAT bad...but you could get a way better one for $100-150 depending one what type of BUS your mobo has. And being a 17 year old with no job I wouldn't even think about building one unless you have $1.5k to spend (I guess you could build one for cheaper, but I figure if you have the determination and motivation to build one you want it to last and run everything good)

My computer, a Gateway with Intel i5, 8GB ram and 1tb hard drive was $580 (I bought it new back in Novemebr) and added a PNY GeForce GTX 550Ti with XLR8 and 1024MB GDDR5 ram for $150. I can run pretty much anything, from GTAiv to iRacing, NR2003 to BF3.

So I've spent almost $800 in that setup. Not bad considering what's inside and what it can play/perform.

 

[BillyJack79]

Upgrading what you've got there would likely help NR2003, but probably not do too much for other games that use DirectX 9 and up. Tiger Direct has build kits for a few hundred dollars. If you're low-budget and determined to do-it-yourself, that's the way to go. Just beware sometimes they skimp by with cheap parts (power supplies, optical drives, cases) in their kits. Do your research, read all the reviews. I was in the process of ordering from them when I found this...

HP Pavilion g7-1355dx Notebook PC Product Specifications - HP Customer Care (United States - English)

It was $450 at Best Buy, I sent $32 to Tiger Direct for another 4GB RAM module, and I haven't found a game yet that I can't run, mid to high graphic settings. On NR2003, Cup12ss and Ian's tracks, I rarely drop below 30 FPS, and that's with full-fields and everything turned up. Only drawback of laptop gaming is heat. I NEVER run my laptop on a flat surface, always keep the back raised to disperse heat from the bottom. Bought it in Feb., and so far so good.