Budget Gaming/Business Computer

[notorious]

Originally Posted by Fish

You don't want to put an existing XP install on a new computer. Ditch that lousy little 30GB POS and get a new drive. You can't simply drop an existing XP OS onto a new system with a new motherboard anyway, without running into lots of potential issues.

I'd combine options 1 and 2, and build from scratch but use Win7. If you can't afford Win7, you can always pirate it and buy it later when you're able.

Intel is better for gaming on average, but there's lots of exceptions for that. My preference is always Intel when building a gaming rig, but you can do so with AMD if you're that determined to save a little money.

I wish I had the time to put an ultimate gaming PC to use, but it would just sit and collect dust due to kids and business booming.

What would you do with 3-400 bucks? It's not about money, I just don't want to waste something that I will never put to full use.

[Fish]

Originally Posted by notorious

I wish I had the time to put an ultimate gaming PC to use, but it would just sit and collect dust due to kids and business booming.

What would you do with 3-400 bucks? It's not about money, I just don't want to waste something that I will never put to full use.

Then just don't spend quite so much on the video card. Or if you're worried about not playing games to make it worth the purchase, just rely on the onboard video card and leave room for a PCIe card to be purchased later for gaming.

Get a good mobo with all connections you'll need for the next 4 years. Get a cheap power supply <=500W. Get 8GB of cheap RAM. Decent HD.

That's versatile enough to serve whatever purpose you want. Including games.

[notorious]

Originally Posted by Fish

Then just don't spend quite so much on the video card. Or if you're worried about not playing games to make it worth the purchase, just rely on the onboard video card and leave room for a PCIe card to be purchased later for gaming.

Get a good mobo with all connections you'll need for the next 4 years. Get a cheap power supply <=500W. Get 8GB of cheap RAM. Decent HD.

That's versatile enough to serve whatever purpose you want. Including games.

Yes.

I just checked I5 desktops with what Clay suggested. I would end up wasting the power (thanks anyway, Clay).

When I was in my early 20's I spent 3K+ on my computer gaming gear. Don't get old, don't run your own business, and don't have kids if you love to game.