We are building a PC for web design work, using an Intel Core i7-7700K processor, 16GB RAM, and a 250gb SSD, as well as a 1tb hard drive. The collector insists that a video card is unnecessary for Photoshop as the processor's graphics core is sufficient, but I have my doubts.

One question that arises is whether the graphics processor core alone is enough for comfortable use of Photoshop and other design development programs. Additionally, are there any other important factors to consider when building a PC for our particular tasks?

As someone with zero experience in hardware, it can be difficult to navigate all the different advice out there. However, focusing on more RAM, a larger SSD, and an i5 or i7 processor seems to be the general consensus. Perhaps other experts in the field could offer more insight.

When it comes to using the video card, Photoshop is capable of doing so and may even speed up operations by a significant factor. Notably, this doesn't work for all operations, leading to an average performance increase of just around 1-2%.
However, if you often find yourself processing batches of photos, such as applying filters to hundreds of images, then using a video card can be very beneficial.

If you're looking to enhance the speed of your work, getting more memory or another SSD could be desirable. Nevertheless, the performance increase may not be substantial. As such, it's urged that you examine these factors before making any acquisitions during operation. It's also recommended to check the resource monitor while working to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Make sure to get the nVidia GTX GeForce card without fail, as all graphic programs, such as Photoshop, now operate with CUDA technology, making it unwise to sacrifice performance.

As for the specific card to choose, the Asus STRIX is a more potent option and should be considered. Remember, having a powerful graphics card is essential for executing high-performance tasks in graphic design and video editing.

Consider purchasing a light graphics card such as the Asus PCI-Ex GeForce GT 1030 Phoenix OC 2GB GDDR5 (64bit) (1252/6008) (DVI, HDMI) (PH-GT1030-O2G). Alternatively, opt for the MSI PCI-Ex GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GAMING X 4GB GDDR5 (128bit) (1354/7008) (DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort) (GTX 1050 TI GAMING X 4G) if you require more power.

It's worthwhile to note that while a video card is essential in graphics, it shouldn't be the sole focus. Other components such as RAM and processor speed also play a significant role in overall performance.

When it comes to building a PC for web design work, the processor and RAM are indeed crucial components. The Intel Core i7-7700K processor you mentioned is a powerful choice that should provide sufficient processing power for Photoshop and other design development programs. However, it is worth noting that having a dedicated graphics card can significantly improve performance in tasks that heavily rely on GPU acceleration, such as rendering complex 3D models or working with large video files.

While the integrated graphics core of the i7-7700K is capable, it may struggle with more demanding graphics-related tasks. If your work involves heavy image editing, graphic design, or video editing, investing in a dedicated graphics card could greatly enhance your workflow in applications like Photoshop.

Aside from the processor and graphics card, other important factors to consider include:

1. RAM: 16GB is a good starting point; however, if you work with large files or tend to run multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously, increasing the RAM to 32GB or more may be beneficial.

2. Storage: Having both an SSD and a hard drive is a smart choice. The SSD will provide fast boot times and snappy program loading, while the hard drive can store larger files, such as image and video assets. If budget allows, consider getting a larger SSD to ensure you have enough space for all your frequently used programs and files.

3. Display: Investing in a high-resolution monitor with accurate color reproduction can greatly improve your visual experience when working on web design projects.

4. Connectivity: Ensure that the motherboard has enough USB ports, including USB 3.0 or higher, for connecting peripherals like drawing tablets, external hard drives, and other essential devices.

more factors to consider when building a PC for web design work:

1. CPU Cooling: Since you're using an Intel Core i7-7700K, which is an unlocked processor, it generates more heat when overclocked. Investing in a quality cooler can help keep temperatures low and maintain optimal performance.

2. Motherboard: Choose a motherboard that supports the features you need, such as sufficient RAM slots for future expansion, multiple PCIe slots for potential graphics card upgrades, and ample USB ports for your peripherals.

3. Power Supply: Make sure you have a reliable power supply unit (PSU) that can handle the power demands of your components, including any future upgrades. It's generally recommended to have a PSU with higher wattage to allow for expansion and ensure stability.

4. Operating System: Consider whether you'll be using Windows, macOS, or Linux. Some software applications may have specific requirements or perform better on certain operating systems.

5. Color Accuracy: If color accuracy is crucial for your work, consider investing in a color calibration device to ensure consistent and accurate color reproduction on your monitor.

6. Backup Solutions: Implement a backup strategy to protect your important design files. This could include using cloud storage, external hard drives, or setting up a RAID configuration for redundancy.