Re: What computer is best for the Sims 4 including packs, mods, and cc?

I’d prefer to have a laptop and my budget is anything under $700 and I’m in the US. If you could tell me what kind of details I should be looking for in a laptop that’ll run good with the game or like how it all works then that’ll be great. 

@avalynn1206  Sorry for the delay in responding.  There aren't a lot of gaming laptops available for $700 or less right now, but if you're patient, you should be able to find something that works.  As an example, this one should run all current packs together on ultra graphics settings, with some room to spare to account for more demanding custom content.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1542057-REG/msi_gf63_thin_9scx_005_gf63_i5_9300h_8gb.html

The key here is the graphics card: an Nvidia 1650 can handle ultra settings, it's significantly faster than the previous generation's 1050, and it's significantly less expensive than the faster 1660 ti.  The processor is fine, as are all the processors that get paired with a 1650.  8 GB RAM is enough for Sims 4; even if 16 would be nice to have for multitasking, it's not strictly necessary.  A 256 GB hard drive is small but can still fit the entire game and 100 GB of cc, not that you'd want to wait that long for the game to load.

I saw this one too, with the same hardware except for a larger hard drive:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/574675577

It's $712, but I figured it was worth mentioning.

If you find something you like, feel free to link it for a second opinion.

Can you recommend a pc please?

@sleekshari  Sure, but I need to know your budget and country, as well as any other details that matter to you.  For example do you want a laptop or desktop, do you need a monitor (and is that included in the budget), do you have other games you'd like to play or other data you'd like to store, etc.?

@puzzlezaddict Hey, I was wondering this same question I want a desktop strictly for playing sims 4. I live in the U.S my budget is probably around $1500 I do not have a monitor and don’t know anything about computers. I was the about getting the new IMac 24” but not if it doesn’t run good. Thanks!

@p41g33  If you want to talk Mac specs, it's actually better to post in the Mac tech section here:

https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-Mac/bd-p/The-Sims-Mac

That's the place to discuss specifics like how this chip runs Sims 4, what graphics settings you might use, etc.

My more general take would be that if you like Macs or macOS in general and would prefer that to a Windows PC, then the base model iMac is a reasonable choice.  It's not nearly as powerful as a $1,500 gaming PC, but you don't need all that power just for Sims 4.  So a relatively small compromise in performance might not be a problem at all.

Thank you, but if I were to get a gaming desktop what would you suggest?

Hi! I would really like your help!!

(I wonder kinda the same thing) 🙂  

I’ve played sims 4 since 2017 and I play on a Mac book pro.

I’ve tried cc 2 times before. It works at first but then my game crashes and I can’t open it again. 

It took a long time and service but then I finally could open the game again, but then EVERYTHING in my sims 4 was gone!! Like everything was rinsed!

Since then I haven’t wanted to test cc again! And I really want cc, mods and stuff like that (packs too).

So is there anything I can get advice on that might help? Like if I should get a new laptop or something.

Cus the laptop also gets hot, laggy and slow when I play, and that is without mods and cc!! 
Anyways in that case which laptop/gaming laptop do you recommend?

I also what the ability to do other stuff and play other games without it being any problems. 🙂

(and I live in Scandinavia)

sorry if it got to long or I spelled anything wrong 😅

@blomma07sa  The missing content is a known issue, or rather a side effect of iCloud in macOS.  (It's also a problem in Windows.)  It has nothing to do with how well your computer runs the game, although it does tend to happen when a computer is low on free storage.

https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-Mac/READ-FIRST-Saves-CC-Mods-or-Library-items-disappeared/td-p/10242133

So I wouldn't say that the disappering content is in itself a reason to get a new computer.  But if you want one for performance reasons, then sure, I can help.  It does sound like you might benefit from higher-end hardware than what your Mac currently has, especially if it has an Intel chip as opposed to the newer ARM (M1/M2) options.

Without any idea of what your budget is, I'll say that any reasonably new graphics card that doesn't start with MX can run Sims 4 on ultra graphics settings.  So that means any card with a model number 16xx, 20xx, or 30xx from Nvidia, or 5xxx or 6xxx from AMD.  If it's in your budget, I'd go for at least a 3050 rather than a 1650 just to futureproof a bit, but even a 1650 should always be able to run the game on a mix of high and ultra settings.

The next tier down in terms of both price and performance is a high-end integrated graphics chip.  The chip is integrated into the processor, so the important question is what CPU the laptop has.  The chips in the Intel i5-1135G7 and i7-1165G7 and the AMD 5500U and 5700U can run Sims 4 on at least medium-high or high settings, depending on playstyle and player preference.  (Newer Intel chips have more options that can't be neatly summarized.)  AMD's 6000-series processors have even faster graphics, but I'm not sure those are available where you are; they're barely available anywhere.

I can't suggest particular laptops without knowing what's available in your region, and at what prices.  Many companies have wildly different pricing even in neighboring countries, usually for no discernible reason, and part of what makes a gaming laptop a good or bad option is its price.

If you have any particular laptops you're considering and want a second opinion, feel free to link them.  Or you can link a few stores and I'll have a look.  In that case, let me know your budget as well as any other considerations that matter to you, for example the laptop's weight or screen size.

Hello,

I'm not super computer spec savvy, and I currently play on an older HP laptop with CC and Mods and nearly every pack there is and.... it takes forever! At least 2 hours to load on startup.

I'm in the market for a desktop that will (hopefully) run the game faster and allow me to basically mod the game to my hearts content (I've only got a few as I don't want to kill my current computer).

I live in the US and would like to spend as little as possible (under $1,000?) Sims is basically the only PC game I play so I know from an earlier post of yours that I don't need anything too heavy duty.

Thank you for any help you can give!

@Fiyeretta  What do you think of this one?

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/skytech-gaming-blaze-ii-gaming-desktop-pc-intel-core-i5-10400f-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-gtx-1660-ti-1tb-ssd-black/6499434.p?skuId=6499434

I can technically find you a cheaper option, but the quality of the components and the build itself isn't great until you get over $700 anyway, and this one is significantly better than any of those and not much more expensive.  For comparison's sake, this is the best option I'm seeing in that next-lower category:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1731049-REG/ibuypower_slatemr2140_slatemr_2140_gaming_desktop.html

It's actually quite a good computer, but it has a slower graphics card and half the RAM and storage.

If you don't like either one above, please let me know why so I can appropriately narrow the search.

Thank you so much for your help :D

I think out of the 2 you suggested I'm leaning more towards the iBUYPOWER set up as it has "3.5 to 4.4 GHz 6-Core vs the Skytech's 2.9 GHz 6-Core speed (I believe the latest sims 4 system requirements mentions needing 3.3 GHz if I am correct) 

but if the other one has faster graphics and more storage couldn't I upgrade its CPU?

(I have never worked on computers either so I don't know if what I'm asking is possible, I know my partner could help me with any upgrading)

@Fiyeretta  The iBuyPower computer does have the faster processor, but the limiting factor as far as Sims 4 is concerned is the graphics card.  Both processors are powerful enough to more than keep up the pace, but the difference between a 1650 and a 1660 ti is significant.

The Sims 4 system requirements list specific processor models, an Intel i3-3220 that runs at 3.3 GHz and a Ryzen 3 1200.  This doesn't mean you need a 3.3 GHz processor, only that you need one better than the two listed.  The i3-3220 is a decade old and only has two cores, whereas Sims 4 can use 4, so the direct comparison is invalid in a few ways.  The 10400F is several times faster than the 3220, depending on the benchmark used.  Also, the 10400F can turbo up to 4.3 GHz, and it'll generally be in turbo mode while you play.  The 3220 has no turbo mode.

You can upgrade any component of a desktop if you know how.  It's complicated to swap out a processor because you need to take the CPU cooler off (and put it back on correctly), and you also need to get a new model that's compatible with the motherboard.  In the case of the 10400F, that means any 10th- or 11th-gen Intel processor, for example an i5-11600K would work and be relatively cheap.  But like I said, it's not necessary for Sims 4.

Ok that does make me feel better about the Skytech option. I also like it has some pretty decent reviews.

Thank you so much for explaining this all to me ^_^ I believe this will be my next set up~

Hi i would love if you could help me find the perfect desktop or even laptop that could run sims4 and alot of mods/ccs Also other games like roblox,the last of us etc and maybe probably other data like for edits or none gaming purposes my budget is 1k and that's including head sets hard drives and the other things that come with desktops (I don't really know anything about pcs)I live in the US btw and if it's possible to stay in or even close to budget I would like a monitor that is if you can't find any laptops.Thank you in advance.

@y42s703adwk4  For performance purposes, you're better off getting a desktop: the components are more powerful for the same price, cooling is better, and it's much easier to repair or upgrade.  So I'll stick with that unless you tell me specifically you'd prefer a laptop.

On that note, what do you think of this model?

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-rog-gaming-desktop-intel-core-i5-11400f-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-gtx-1660-ti-512gb-ssd/6501551.p?skuId=6501551

Its graphics card is overpowered for Sims 4; it has 16 GB RAM, which is nice to have if not strictly necessary; and its price is quite low, probably because Best Buy is trying to clear out models with a GTX 1660.  The processor and storage are more than fine.

If you don't like this particular desktop, let me know why, and I'll narrow the search.  There are a lot of decent options in your price range, although I don't usually see any as good as this for the same price.  Still, you could spend a bit more and get essentially the same hardware, for example:

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/skytech-gaming-chronos-mini-gaming-desktop-intel-i5-10400f-16g-3200-memory-nvidia-geforce-gtx-1660-super-500g-ssd-black/6489651.p?skuId=6489651

For the monitor, please let me know what size you want it to be and whether you care about playing at high framerates.

The Last of Us and Roblox are not demanding at all, even compared to Sims 4, but if you have any newer games in mind, please list them.

@MookieLove09  You don't need to pay nearly $2,000 to get a great laptop for Sims 4.  Are there any other games you might want to run, now or in the future?  I ask because you can afford a high-end graphics card, but there's no sense in spending $400 extra on one that Sims 4 will never be able to utilize properly.  (The game basically has soft limit on how well it can run on even the most powerful systems.)  On the other hand, other games might benefit from the increased power.

@MinVediva  $1,500 U.S. is more than enough to fit your needs.  Do you want a desktop or a laptop?  Desktop hardware is more powerful, and desktops are much more upgradable, but a laptop is more convenient.  If you're going with desktop, let me know whether the monitor is part of the budget and how large you want it to be.

Please also let me know whether you'd prefer the best system for $1,500 or the cheapest system that fits your needs.

@MinVediva  If you're not looking for the best computer $1,500 can buy, you really don't need to pay nearly that much, even with the monitor included, for Sims 4.  There are a few rough categories to choose from even below $1,000, and the question is at what point does price become more important than performance.

If your only goal is to play Sims 4 on ultra settings without the game lagging too much (it'll lag for sure, that can't be avoided, but it won't be the hardware's fault), then these are as low as I would go.  Performance should be smooth, other than when the game inevitably lags, and you'll have room for whatever else you want to install.  The second one has a newer and better processor, which should help with longevity and with some of the Sims 4 lag, but it's not strictly necessary.

https://www.amazon.com/Skytech-Chronos-Mini-Gaming-Desktop/dp/B09R1V8X6F

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/skytech-gaming-chronos-mini-gaming-desktop-intel-core-i3-12100f-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-gtx-1650-500gb-nvme-ssd-black/6537309.p?skuId=6537309

The next tier means smoother graphics, especially if you get a monitor with a higher refresh rate (more on that below), and more of a buffer to absorb the effects of the game lagging.  To be clear, this is about the game tripping all over itself, not the hardware, but faster hardware can resolve those tie-ups marginally more quickly.  The faster graphics card also leaves some room for Sims 4 to get more demanding, if it does, or for the eventual Sims 5 to be more graphics-intensive than that.  Given the small difference in price between this and the next tier up, this is the only computer I found that's worth the price given its hardware.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/skytech-gaming-nebula-gaming-desktop-intel-core-i5-12400f-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3050-500gb-nvme-ssd-black/6537311.p?skuId=6537311

Finally, these computers are overkill for Sims 4 and almost certainly always will be, but since these systems are only around $900, they're worth mentioning too.  Aside from the faster graphics card, you're also getting twice the storage for the first two, which is convenient if not necessary for Sims 4 and schoolwork.

https://www.newegg.com/skytech-st-azure-0641-b-ne/p/3D5-000Z-000Z2

https://www.newegg.com/ibuypower-slatehakoi5n3601/p/N82E16883993002

https://www.amazon.com/Skytech-Blaze-3-0-Gaming-Desktop/dp/B0B52VH28X

https://www.amazon.com/Skytech-Azure-Gaming-PC-Desktop/dp/B0BRBR8C9Y

Within a given tier, the hardware isn't meaningfully different other than the extra storage of the first two $900 options.  But storage is very easy to upgrade and quite cheap these days, so you wouldn't be locking yourself into 500 GB with the other options.  All of these have 16 GB RAM, which is convenient for multitasking and will probably be necessary eventually even if it's not right now.

I chose desktops from companies with a reputation for good build quality and getting the most out of their hardware.  You might see a slightly cheaper option with the same hardware from HP or Acer, but I would suggest avoiding those given your budget can accommodate a slightly higher price.  Some manufacturers use proprietary components that don't work as well and are not interchangeable with commonly-available parts, so repairs and upgrades can be much more difficult.

For monitors, the single most important feature is an IPS panel (as opposed to VA or TN), which has the highest-quality colors and widest viewing angles.  Second, for many of us at least, is a higher refresh rate.  Many people can readily distinguish between 60 or 75 Hz and 120 or higher, especially at younger ages, with the higher refresh rates making everything from games to dragging a desktop window feel smoother and more responsive.  Even some of those who can't tell the difference, consciously at least, report a subjective improvement.

However, if you're going for one of the computers in the first tier, you may not get a lot of benefit from a refresh rate higher than 75 Hz.  The 1650 would run Sims 4 a little faster than that most of the time and sometimes drop below it, so something like one of these would be fine.  I realize that I'm listing a lot of options, but aesthetics matter to a lot of people, so you might cross off half of them because you don't like the stand or something.

https://www.amazon.com/VA229HR-Monitor-Frameless-1080P-Viewing/dp/B07WMTJGFX

(same as above; you could probably get Best Buy to price match)

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-21-5-ips-led-fhd-monitor-black/6401041.p?skuId=6401041

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1457452-REG/lg_22mk430h_b_22_full_hd_ips.html

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1299685-REG/lg_24mb35v_w_23_8_led_lcd.html

https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-23-8-1080P-Monitor-VA247HE/dp/B09DHNBDGD

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-t350-series-24-ips-led-fhd-freesync-hdmi-vga-dark-blue-gray/6420870.p?skuId=6420870

https://www.amazon.com/MSI-Pro-MP243-Certified-Protection/dp/B0B94NQ1YC

https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-VA24EHE-Monitor-1920x1080-D-Sub/dp/B07Z8TC28F

(again, same as above)

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-va24ehe-23-8-full-hd-led-lcd-monitor-169/6419208.p?skuId=6419208

If you're getting a computer with an RTX 3050 or especially a 3060 for a graphics card, then it's well worth the upgrade to 120 Hz or higher.  Sims 4 should run at 1920x1080 at or above 144 fps under ideal conditions on a 3060, and lower but still well over 100 on a 3050.  Some situations will create fps drops, that happens on even much more powerful systems, but most of the time you'd see closer to 144.  Even with a 1650, the price premium for a higher-refresh-rate monitors is low enough to be worth considering for general use.

https://www.amazon.com/LG-24GN600-B-Ultragear-Virtually-Borderless/dp/B08PHKNNRY

https://amazon.com/MSI-Refresh-Monitor-Optix-G242PM/dp/B09X32W7F9

https://www.amazon.com/Lenovo-G24-20-FreeSync-Certified-Adjustable/dp/B0B94RK4BK

https://www.newegg.com/metallic-black-msi-optix-g2412-24/p/N82E16824475257

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1703068-REG/gigabyte_g24f_2_us_24.html

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1727984-REG/msi_g2412_24_full_hd_170hz.html

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-tuf-23-8-fhd-165hz-1ms-freesync-premium-gaming-monitor-displayporthdmi/6501810.p?skuId=6501810

In terms of specs, there aren't many meaningful differences, although look for a peak brighness, measured in nits, at or above 300 if you like a brighter monitor.  If you don't like a particular brand's monitors in general, that's also a good distinction to make.  For example, I'd never buy myself a Dell monitor even though they're high quality overall just because I don't like the way the screens look.

If you have more questions about any of this, please feel free to ask.