Looking for a PC under $100?
Looking for a PC under $100?
Hey everyone, just checking on a used PC. I need something for Final Fantasy 14 that runs smoothly with low graphics settings. It’s not perfect, but it should work fine. I’m in Canada and have a budget under $100.
I’m considering the Dell Optiplex 7040 SFF — around 80$, paired with an i7-6700, 16GB RAM, no HDD.
#1 I already know it’s SFF and I have some components I’d like to modify. I own a Gigabyte 7970OC, a 750W PSU, and a 500GB SSD. I’m okay cutting the case to fit everything. Should there be any problems? The motherboard has slots and plugs available.
#2 I have a laptop with an i7-3620QM but only an HD4000 GPU. I don’t think that’s worth it. Looking for advice or confirmation if I can try this myself, thanks.
According to what I understand, the PCI slot will be too near the power supply to fit inside the case. I also don’t remember if Dell uses standard power connectors. I’m sure the front panel connectors and power switch are probably unique to this model.
If you already have the Dell unit, it might make sense to look for a cheaper motherboard and, if needed, "trial run" it until you can afford a new case.
It's possible, though most Dell systems don't use standard PSU connectors. You can locate adapters at moddiy.com or on Amazon/Ebay. Instead of a SFF, look for a Micro ATX chassis that fits your needs. Cutting might still be required, but it will be less severe than dealing with low-profile expansion slots. You won't need a case—just remove the board from the chassis and set up a bench test or repurpose a chassis from a store.
Optiplex 9020 micro ATX works well; its PSU connector is proprietary, but it's ATX-sized so replacements are possible without removing the unit entirely.
this isn't compatible with either a typical PSU or GPU.
taking apart the case might create space, but
the motherboard is an exclusive OEM part so it's largely out of the question.
the approach would then be to rely solely on the CPU and RAM from this $80 system?
i’d likely keep searching for an older used CPU/RAM/motherboard package that could fit into a regular case.
what are the suggested specifications for FF14?
I noticed the i7 in a budget setup. I discovered some custom configurations with a mid-tower model for $100. However, they all use an i5-6500, which is fine. The other options you mentioned cost about $120 to $150 locally.
In the budget this reflects what I discovered. I’m considering an i5-6500 after noticing the security features are quite restricted. I have cats and don’t like breadboarding. The specs are i7 with RX 2060, but I used my 7970 when the GPU failed and it performed okay with low graphics. I’ve played last expansion on an i5-6500 and the GPU was a bottleneck (RX 580). So again, I believe going lower and choosing something that won’t be too troublesome to get working is a better choice.
This is intended for my son, who has been using my PC; there’s an upcoming expansion, which would be great to set up. The financial timing isn’t ideal for the next couple of months. Building it as a “throwaway project” suits me, aiming for 4-6 months of use.
Have you purchased anything so far, or are you still in the process of acquiring components?
I haven't purchased this one.
I own some components from previous setups.
GPU: 7970oc 3gb
550ti 1gb
PSU 750w (generic brand)
Numerous SSDs
This option could be viable, featuring a CPU that runs slightly faster than a standard i7 3770K. It includes all necessary components to begin, such as a solid yet older 685W PSU with dual 6-pin PCIe power connectors. You might negotiate a price near 100. In the future, you could upgrade to up to 128GB RAM and a multi-core processor ranging from 8 to 12 cores. Additionally, overclocking becomes feasible if you obtain an unlocked Xeon and utilize the Intel Extreme tuning tool, delivering strong performance for several years.
Compare Intel Core i7-3770K / Xeon E5-1620 v2
www.cpu-world.com
https://www.ebay.ca/itm/126338107741?itm...w&LH_BIN=1
Thank you for your attention, but I realize I overlooked the detail that I’m based in Canada. 175$ after shipping/etc. I plan to wait a couple of weeks before proceeding, and if nothing comes up, I’ll consider getting an i5 system. In the short term it will suffice, and a more suitable one later this year will be much appreciated.