It’s Time to Upgrade Your Gaming Rig
Current games like Age of Conan and Mass Effect already give high-end PCs a tough time, and it looks like upcoming games like Diablo 3 and Red Alert 3 will be even more demanding. The screenshots are probably making my current gaming rig pee in its pants.
For some reason, I’m thinking now is the perfect time for avid gamers to upgrade their PCs—or even invest in a new one. The second option is more affordable than it sounds, thanks to great resources like Tom’s Hardware.
On the opposite extreme, those who have the cash to spend should really get the best the money can buy—again, if they’re really into gaming. As a rule I always try to select/build a system that lasts for at least two years. At the same time however, not all of us can afford to spend $3000+ “just” on gaming.
According to my limited experience in choosing the right gaming setup, right between top-of-the-line and budget, here’s what I would get:
- A 3Ghz processor
- 4GB of RAM
- A video card with at least 1GB of memory
- 500GB of hard disk space
- DVD-Writer
- A 22″ LCD monitor
Feel free to criticize my arbitrary selection and lack of detail. So long as you provide a more detailed setup in the comments below.
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POSTED IN: Desktops
7 opinions for It’s Time to Upgrade Your Gaming Rig
Ingoal
Jul 2, 2008 at 6:40 pm
I would seriously consider getting a 24″ monitor instead of a 22″ one. The resolution (1920×1200) is waaaaay better compated to the 22″ (1680×1050) and with the gfx-card you’re looking at playing in full hd will be no problem either, so why not get the corresponding device ;-)
Rico
Jul 3, 2008 at 7:07 am
Good point, but how much would that set you back? I’ve managed to find a sweet HP W2207h for only $250. How much would your recommended 24-incher cost on average? :)
Jminkler
Jul 3, 2008 at 1:44 pm
I wouldn’t say that would be a good investment that would “last 2 years” as a have had a system that for the last 2 years :)
Would get something with at least more than 1 processor, and as much ram as you can get your hands on. Also, 500GB doesn’t seem like very much in this day and age, depending on what you are doing.
Ingoal
Jul 3, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Well, I can’t tell you how the prices are in the US (just have a look in a price search engine of your choice)…all I know is that over here (europe) my new 24″ was only around 70€ more expensive than the 22″ model (btw I have the IIyama B2403WS one sweet display)
…as for the HP model you mentioned…I would have a look at that in real-life as it could def be a bad choice (depending on your surroundings) as it’s a glare-type (”glossy”) display… ;-)
Rico
Jul 4, 2008 at 6:24 am
Jminkler: True. I’m still trying to keep the total price low though, so I’m sticking with 500GB. Besides, no matter how much space is available, wouldn’t we all find a way to fill all that up? :)
Ingoal: Yep, I’ve made sure actually test the monitor in real life. A friend of mine recently bought it, and he has nothing but praises.
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