The Tech Report have re-imagined their system build for this update, with what they describe as being more focused on the individual components as opposed to the entire build. While they still provide different levels of machines, the Budget, Sweet Spot and and High End they spend more time explaining why a particular component was chosen and in some cases offer you a choice of multiple components. Now the pages are set up to describe the components for each build as opposed to each build having a separate page. Check out their new format and see what you think.
"We've reworked our famous TR System Guide with a new, component-centric format, which tells readers not just which components to choose, but also how to choose them."
Here are some more Systems articles from around the web:
- TechwareLabs Monster Build Part 1: The Gear @ TechwareLabs
- PC Specialist ‘Vanquish 230XT’ Gaming System @ eTeknix
- Gigabyte Brix Pro Review – GB-BXi7-4770R @ Legit Reviews
- How To Get More Graphics Performance From The Intel NUC @ Legit Reviews
- YOYOTech M-Cube WS @ Kitguru
As a builder I like the
As a builder I like the component-centric format and hope they continue with this.
Overall, I think it’s a great
Overall, I think it’s a great concept that should be easily updated as new products come to market. At the same time (if they don’t do it already), they should continue to create build-it videos using many of the components they’re recommending. Specifically, they need to point out highlights and lowlights when using the parts in a build. For example, does the HSF block RAM slots? Can you easily install a 240mm cooler on the top of the case? Are the locations of the fan connectors on the mobo in good spots, or are they going to make cable routing look sloppy? There is nothing worse than buying all the parts based on an article like this only to find that 2 recommended parts actually don’t fit well together.
The build prices should include the cost of an OS. I’m sorry, but Linux is not a feasible option for 97% of the population. Personally, I would like to see the budget build closer to $600 (including OS), not $700. And there should be a $1000 build since I think many people budget with this dollar amount in mind.
On a side note, I’m not sure I agree with all the hate on AMD CPUs. In the budget and mid-range builds, AMD are still a compelling option. At one point they say AMD integrated graphics don’t help much, then praise the i3 for having integrated graphics 4 paragraphs later. And if you’re worried about the power draw between 95W CPUs vs. 54W CPUs, then you’ve got bigger issues and shouldn’t be worrying about a computer build.