Help finding computer

[Timmy5under]

Hi everybody, this site has been crucial in helping me order parts for my home simulator so thanks to everyone who helped, even though you don't know it . I believe my last hurdle now is a computer and while I consider myself pretty handy and clever with building things, building a computer is not a strength I posses. I've ordered a Uneekor Eye XO, paired with a BenQ TK700STI projector and I'm lost trying to figure out what and where to get the computer. I'd like to get something that is not overkill but definitely something with some power that will be good for a while. Given the combination of shortages, demand, and my inability I could really use some guidance from those of you who know this aspect of the build. Thanks, I appreciate all the help.

[derek1800]

I have same setup coming and also looking for pc. Anyone with recommendations for 4k machine at a good price?

[vrpunk]

All about the graphics card.
Set your budget and look for these specifications...if it all looks like jargon at least you'll know what to look for in the descriptions.

Standard Components...
Minimum memory 16Gb DDR4
Hard drive type fastest M2 NVMe SSD (minimum capacity 256Gb try get 512Gb)
Hard drive cheaper option SSD
CPU Intel based (some conflicts with AMD) preferably i7 or i9

Spend the money here..
Graphics card: Nvidia Geforce 30xx the higher the number xx (05,06,07,08,09) the more it will cost and the 30xxTi are the best you can buy.
Cheaper option is the 20xx services still excellent graphics cards and will be able to buy cheaper as its older models.

Good luck

[jasonreg]

I think that is a great summary. Two things I might add and one thing to ponder. Increase RAM. It is relatively cheap and while not specifically called for today - 32+ GB of RAM just lets you add more programs running (swing cams one day? as an example) at the same time without issue. Get a separate storage disk. Does not need to be SSD - I have a 1 TBHDD which stores all of my courses, swing videos etc. Saves re-installing them if you have issues on your primary drive but also allows you to get away with the fastest primary (albeit a bit smaller) drive you can get your hands on.

To ponder (and I grappled with this) is where to start with video. You are after 4K, are you after multiple displays? Separate swing cameras (now or eventually - I know the Eye XO gives video as is). Point is, especially with the older cards, they often save $ on fewer ports etc. which may affect your plans. Then - given the current price point for the upper tier cards, there will be a point where planning to replace the card in say 2 years will be more efficient than going top-tier today. Hard to say. What I will say is I have a GeForce RTX2080 Super driving 16:10 projector, monitor and separate TV display with two swing cameras and it runs along without breaking a sweat. Will need to upgrade one day but not today. YMMV. Last thing to remember is not every RTX30XX is the same - differing amounts of RAM etc. So as the say, look closely at the specs - details matter. There are several great sites which let you compare the actual real-world performance of the video cards - you may be pleasantly surprised. If money is not a concern (and if you can find one) - the GeForce RTX3080Ti is King Kong right now and will serve you for many years down range.

My two cents.

[derek1800]

Is there a difference in performance between a NVidia GTX 1080 (tgc 4k recommended min) and RTX2080 and 30XX in terms of the graphics on the projector?

[preludesam]

If you’re asking does the 2080 or 3080 give you a clearer picture vs the 1080 at 4K then the answer would be no. They would however be able to output more FPS. If for example you were using a high refresh rate projector something like a 120hz 4K vs a 60hz 4K or 30hz 4K then yes I would advise getting a 2080 or 3080. The refresh rate is basically how many times the screen information is updated. If your graphics card is not able to output enough FPS to cover the refresh rate then the game looks choppy and almost like a slideshow effect. A 1080 is not going to have trouble with 4K 60 FPS but it most likely cannot handle 4K at 120FPS.

[jhim]

Is it safe to assume that it’s probably not worth paying up for a gtx 3060ti over a 3060 to run on a 1080p 60Hz projector for just golf simulator needs? Thanks

[preludesam]

Correct, 1080p at 60fps does not require high end hardware. Anything over 60FPS with a projector that’s 60Hz is not improving your experience. A 3060 is plenty for 1080p and would probably get well above 100FPS.