1st Build

[vic03]

Hey everyone new guy here. I came across this site while researching how to build a custom PC. I must say the articles and advise I have read on the forums are great. I’m looking to build my first PC (mainly for gaming) and have a couple questions below. I must admit I’m not very savvy with computer hardware, but I’m learning.

1. Why are GPU’s branded and sold under names like GIGABYTE, ASUS, HIS? I thought these were made by AMD and Nvida? Why don’t AMD and NVida sell them directly? Whats the difference between a GIGABYTE HD 6950 and a ASUS HD 6950?
2. What’s the best benchmark to measure and compare CPUs? GHz’s? I’m having a tough time comparing AMD’s and Intel’s.
3. What is the best (least worst) component to skimp on? I’m trying to build a complete system including monitor and OS for around $1,200.

[flanzig1]

ATI and Nvidia only make the GPU chips just like Intel and AMD make the CPUs and not the mother boards.
Speed is one factor for CPUs. Other considerations are the # of cores/on board cache.
Generally the place not to cheap out is the power supply.

[glc]

Whats the difference between a GIGABYTE HD 6950 and a ASUS HD 6950?

Gigabyte and Asus manufacture the cards. They both use the AMD 6950 graphics processing chip.

An article that may help you in your CPU choice:

Best Gaming CPUs For The Money: February 2011 : February Updates

If you decide you want a Sandy Bridge (highly recommended) hold off just a bit till the new motherboards are in wider distribution. The choices are very limited right now.

[vic03]

Thank you both for the clairification. I agree with the comment to wait on the build. I was planning on a mid-later summer build anyway since my main motivation for this build is BF3 and Skyrim which don't come out till later this year anyway. Just gatherin info at this time. Thanks again!

[glc]

The market will be totally different by then. Nothing wrong with doing research now, but you will undoubtedly wind up buying totally different components by then.