Getting a New Computer-Help Needed

So my old dinosaur of a laptop finally died on me (again). This is the perfect opportunity for me to get a new, nice rig. I'm moving and going to start school next month and will need a computer so this is a good excuse to invest in it.

However, I have no idea what needs to go into a decent gaming computer let alone what is current. I figure someone around here knows a little bit and can help me out.

I'm not looking for amazing specs because my budget is about $800-$1000 give or take a little. Ideally I am looking for something that will run current games and last a couple of years (a lot I know).

So here is the question. Since I've never built my own rig before should I attempt it or just pay for a pre built one like an XPS even though it costs more? And if I build my own where do I start wtih components and all that jazz.

Thanks a lot in advance.

 

enigma will be your almighty guide thru this process ... and we can chime in with some thoughts ... but his questions ill add too

What experience do you have with technology ? have you put in a video card before or a power supply ? or just always bought pre built?

 

doesnt really matter, just listen to ENIGMA, he helped me build my own and I had NO experience with ANYTHING, pirty simple to do it under his guidence.

 

Yeah he did the same with mine and it runs smooooth. Don't get me wrong my old computer was smooth too, but it was smooth like pack of unfiltered lucky strikes

 

Enig, you have any experience with those Rosewill PSUs?

Just curious, I've heard mixed "reviews" (more like statements) on these units across the tech boards I watch.

 

I mean, its Newegg's retail "name" for their "products".

Silverstone makes some good ones, I'd probably go ahead and spend the extra $10 on it for a decent brand name.

 

Thanks for the basic list.

I have no experience with tech always had pre built. My brother offered to help me put it all together if I got components. He worked for a few months in a used computer store back in the 90's. But essentially we are talking about a virgin build from the bottom up.

To answer the question yes I do need both a monitor and operaitng system.

Also I checked my budget timeline. I may have jumped the gun a bit. Theoritically I could begin on this now but might have to wait until financial aid/campus job kick in. Either way, fate favors the prepared.

Thanks. I'll post progress and is happens.