New computer choices
I am currently looking to replace my computer. I want to buy at mid range but I want to be able to play sims 3 with expansions and store content. Are there any elements I need to avoid or companies/parts that work better before I take the plunge and order?
Many thanks
@sblackrose I looked over the Overclockers custom options and have an alternate suggestion for you, this build with some tweaks:
Memory: Corsair Vengeance 2x16 GB 5200 MHz (+£40)
or Corsair Vengeance 2x16 GB 6000 MHz (+£55)
GPU: Asus RTX 4060 ti Dual (+£60)
Primary SSD: WD Black 2 TB (+£68)
Secondary SSD: WD Blue 2 TB (+£105)
This puts you at £1,473 or £1,488, depending on which memory you choose; personally, I'd get the faster kit because AMD CPUs love fast RAM. For this configuration, you'd get a significantly better processor, or you could downgrade to a still somewhat better CPU for £100 less. The 4060 ti is slower than the 7700 XT, but only by about 10%, and the gap is smaller or nonexistent in games that support DLSS 3.0. (When reading reviews, make sure you're seeing the results with DLSS when applicable.) It will run anything out there on ultra settings at 1080p, and I would suggest that you're better off saving a bit of money and installing a next-gen graphics card when you're ready.
This configuration doesn't offer anything faster than a 4060 ti, unfortunately, so this is not a question about going over budget to get exactly what you want.
If you do want the extra GPU power now, this is the best option I see, which is basically the build you're looking at as well, plus some adjustments.
Memory: Corsair Vengeance 2x16 GB 5600 MHz (+£55)
GPU: Sapphire Nitro+ 7700 XT (+£72)
Primary SSD: WD Black 2 TB (+£85)
Secondary SSD: WD Blue 2 TB (+£105)
2.5" SSD: none (-£90)
(It's cheaper to get the single 2 TB secondary SSD, and the WD Blue is much faster than the QVO anyway.) This would put you at £1427 with a faster GPU and weaker CPU. Because both could be upgraded, this is somewhat of a judgment call if you're equally comfortable upgrading either component. The GPU is the easier swap, with the CPU requiring removing the cooler and thermal paste and then adding both after installing the new unit. It's not difficult but also not something to take for granted if you've never done this before; in that case, I'd suggest watching a couple videos to get an idea of what's required.
The final option, if you're willing to wait, is this one:
You'd be over budget selecting the 7700 XT, which is also a pre-order for some reason; the same upgrades plus an R5 7600 CPU would put you at £1544. (This is going with 2x2 TB Crucial P3 SSDs, which are equally good as the others listed.) I'd consider upgrading the PSU to the Corsair 850W option too, but that's not a valid comparison to the other builds since they don't let you choose the power supply.
Point is, you have options depending on your priorities and whether it's worth spending a bit extra. I can still check other sites if you'd like—they're all equally easy to use, and one might give you exactly the options you want. But any of these three would be a valid choice, so you don't need to look further if you're satisfied.
