Looking to build a day trading PC but overwhelmed...

[evan 17]

Hi all,

I'm looking to build my first day trading PC, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the technical jargon on the topic.  I've searched the forums, and it seems like everyone came from some type of engineering, IT, or programming background and had an almost intuitive understanding of how to build a computer, but that's not me.  I'm just looking for a simple beginner's guide in plain English.  This was one of the things I loved about Andrew's book, but unfortunately he doesn't go into much detail on this, even though he says having the right hardware is important.  

 

I currently have  a 2014, 21.5-inch iMac with the following specs:

Processor - 1.4 GHz Intel Core i5 

Memory - 8 GB 1600 MHz DDR3

Startup Disk - Macintosh HD

Graphics - Intel HD Graphics 5000 1536 MB

 

I come from a swing trading background, and my iMac has been sufficient for that.  I also use the ThinkorSwim trading platform for swing trading, not DAS.  However, it appears that DAS is the way to go for day trading.  I tried the 14-day trials of both Parallels and DAS , but I found running both programs caused my iMac to slow down considerably.  Also, the single 21-inch screen didn't feel like nearly enough space.

So it looks like building a new PC-based station is the way to go.  But starting out, I want to keep it simple.  Enough that I can do 3-6 months of simulation, trading the strategies in Andrew's book, without any lag or performance issues.  I should say that I plan to use this PC station SOLELY for trading — I'll continue to use my iMac for all my personal stuff.  Also, I don't game.  

What are the parts and minimum specs I need for this?  I plan to start with 3 monitors but would like to have the capability to add more as I become more proficient as a trader.

Thanks!

Evan

Edited September 16, 2019 by evan

[KurtLoeblich 101]

Evan,

When it comes to running DAS on a windows PC, you dont really need to have a high end rig. I've traded using my 3,000 gaming PC and I've traded off of a 500 dollar HP computer purchased from best buy (when I used to trade at my office).  That being said, the most important things will be a decent processor, enough RAM, and a graphics card with multiple outputs so you can run more than one monitor (you dont want to run monitors off of your motherboard).

From what you've posted as your current specs, your issue is most likely your memory. Every PC I use nowadays his a minimum of 16gigs RAM but I prefer 32. 

The question really comes down to how much are you looking to spend. It's tough to make recommendations without knowing your budget. 

[Richard Pfeiffer 0]

Have you considered EZTradingcomputers.net?  Are they reasonable or overkill?  

[evan 17]

Hi Kurt,

Money isn't really an issue, so there aren't really any budgetary constraints.  Having said that, again, I only plan to use this PC setup for day trading — I don't plan on installing any other software or using it for other tasks, so I don't want to pay for more than I need.   But...I want to be able to run DAS, TI screens, chat room, etc. on multiple monitors without a hitch.

[evan 17]

11 minutes ago, Richard Pfeiffer said:

Have you considered EZTradingcomputers.net?  Are they reasonable or overkill?  

Hi Richard!

I just gave them a look.  That's the thing — I don't know what is reasonable and what is overkill.  One problem with "pre-packaged" sites like that though is that they tend to be a bit overpriced.  I feel like I should be able to buy the parts piecemeal and build my own computer that is just as good or better, and costs less, as long as I know what I need.  Looks like a good resource for comparison, at the very least.  Thanks!

[SirPatrick 9]

You mentioned 3 monitors... Make sure that whatever you get has a video card(s) that fully supports multiple monitors. Lower end cards will usually only support one or two.

[KurtLoeblich 101]

I'll find you a good build and get back to you. 🙂 Give me til end of day. 

[Richard Pfeiffer 0]

Thanks, appreciate any/all suggestions, as starting from scratch and want to do it right the first time.

[KurtLoeblich 101]

https://pcpartpicker.com/guide/

Got some good builds in here that would be more than enough.  I personally prefer Intel over AMD but for day trading, it won't really make a difference. 

[BBT Member 001 27]

Just make sure the PC can support the monitors. Quadro cards are good for this because they support 4k and have 4-6 displayport inputs.

I have a tiny p330 which cost me less than $850 with best features