November 2001 High-end Gaming PC Buyer's Guide

Introduction

If last month was a prime time to buy a new high-end gaming PC, then this month is a continuation of that trend. While we don't have a new major change, like the Athlon XP's introduction last month, to add into the component list, there are still some very noticeable changes to the recommended hardware list this time out. AMD has released the Athlon XP 1900+, the first wave of VIA KT266A have hit the market, ASUS makes a Pentium 4 comeback, and Creative leads us to take a closer look at one of the very best gaming sound solutions in a very long time. Have we piqued your interest yet?

Given the tempting list of available hardware, it is quite easy just to forget the bank account and just go on a wild spending spree. Unfortunately, this usually isn't how most gamers allocate their budgets, outside of a rousing session of Monopoly, and even our High End Gaming PC Buyer's Guide has a set budget of $2500 in cold, hard cash. With this, we try and assemble the fastest, most fully featured gaming PC we can possibly concoct. This is no easy task, as the allure of Pentium 4-2.0 GHz processors, 80 GB hard drives, 21" monitors and Klipsch Promedia speakers can exert an incredible pull on any gamer.

Instead of knocking over an ATM for the necessary fundage, we're sticking with a reasonable $2500 budget, while still getting a lot of bang for our buck. Our high-end picks will provide all of the gaming power you have come to expect from Sharky Extreme, while still carefully weighing the price-performance of the various components.

Those looking for recommendations that are not quite so limited by a strict budget should refer to our Extreme Gaming PC Buyer's Guide, which has a $4000 limit, while those seeking a more affordable system should check out the Value Gaming PC Buyer's Guide, which still packs a lot of performance into a $1000 budget.

Another point worth addressing is the scope and purpose of the SE High End Gaming PC Buyer's Guide. This guide is not intended as a strict mandate as to which specific PC to buy, but more to which combination of PC components offer the best bang for the buck in each of the popular high-end gaming platforms. This translates into recommended configurations for both the Intel and AMD gaming platforms. We're not here to promote one over the other, as only you know your own specific requirements and can determine which platform is the best fit.

AMD Case: Brand Name Full Tower PC case w/ 350W Name Brand PSU

Current Cost: $130
Months on list: 3
Price Change: $0

The choice of a PC case is a very personal and subjective decision, and in this section we're only giving out very basic recommendations. Once we enter the high-end area of gaming systems, the choices open up enormously and although we are listing a few choice cases, each gamer should evaluate their own individual requirements and pick the case that matches up best. At a base minimum, we are recommending a full tower case with a name brand 350W power supply.

In terms of more detailed recommendations, you can't go wrong by starting your AMD system off with the IN-WIN IW-Q500 case. This unit has all the features a gamer needs, and will provide a great starting point for a high-end ATX PC. It features a removable motherboard tray and slide-out doors, which makes both the initial install and future upgrades a snap. Cooling is also top-notch with excellent airflow, an expansive internal housing, and space for back and front-mounted cooling fans. Please note that the IW-Q500 is a full tower case geared more towards a standard home PC, rather than a PC that is easily carted around. Translation: pre-book an appointment with your chiropractor before hauling this beast to a LAN party.

If you are looking for a Pentium 4 case then the AOpen HQ08 (lots of expansion options and a very good design), the Addtronics ET 6890A (expansive, swinging doors, easy access) or the Antec SX830 (a design perfect for those looking to upgrade often) are all great picks. These cases are all large, high quality units featuring ample space for both system components and additional cooling fans. These are also Pentium 4 and Athlon certified right out of the box, so you can easily buy the case and then mix and match components, or even switch platforms entirely.

A case should reflect your individual requirements and if you expect to have a system loaded for bear, then size, expansion options and cooling are of the utmost importance. If your gaming habits are more towards LAN parties, or space is extremely limited, then a smaller mid-tower will be the best bet. The IN-WIN IW-S508 is a good mid-tower product that won't break the bank and is fully Pentium 4 compatible. If you have some spare cash and want the coolest-looking mid-tower around, then the pricey Lian Li PC-68USB case is a great bet.