The iBuyPower Trace 9220 can be a lot of things except one – affordable. There is no way around the fact that this is the most expensive gaming computer we’ve ever reviewed. Still, when taking a closer look at its components what we see is that it is, in fact, a great purchase when it comes to its sheer value.
Our Verdict: In terms of components there are few computers out there that can match with this iBuyPower gaming PC. It packs a powerful combination between one of the best graphics cards out there and one of the most potent processors, with the help of a lot of RAM and a fast SSD. Having additional components such as a very fast Wi-Fi module, an RGB casing, and water cooling is just icing on the cake. If price isn’t a factor in your decision, this is one of your better choices.
If you want to learn more about gaming computers and check out other great models, head over to our full Buyer’s Guide where you will get all the information you need! Now, let’s jump straight into the features of the Trace 9220.
Table of Contents
Overview and Features
As with all modern computers, this one has an RGB Case that can create different lighting conditions with different shining patterns and combinations. You can control them through the custom iBuyPower app that controls a few things inside the computer’s case.
As for the case itself it isn’t really large as some other tower-type PCs but it isn’t very compact either, so if you are struggling with desk space, you might have to settle with something smaller.
Gamer Helper.com Product Rating:
- Excellent design & construction
- Comes with peripherals
- Free Windows 10 Home Edition
- Cool RGB lighting system
- Extremely powerful components
- Lifetime support & 1 Year full warranty
The Processor
The processor here is an intel core i7-8700K. Being an 8th gen Coffee Lake CPU it has 6 cores that, combined with the right amount of RAM, can literally handle anything you throw at them.
It is slightly more powerful than the normal i7-8700 that we see in the CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme and has the major difference of being able to be overclocked. Still, at 3.7GHz per each of the 6 physical cores, we doubt that there will be any game demanding enough to require you to overclock your processor.
There is little to no thermal throttling going on and the CPU performs well under stress. The limit of this CPU is at 4.7 GHz called the “Max Turbo” mode. The Z370 chipset is very successful so far in terms of handling basically anything in terms of gaming.
The RAM Memory
The RAM memory here is similar to what you see in a lot of modern day gaming rigs. 16 GB of DDR4 memory is the golden standard. What is good about this particular one is that it runs on fast speeds (2666MHz) unlike other RAM memory sticks which run normally at 2133 MHz.
This amount of fast-speed RAM will allow you to use your gaming PC for a variety of other demanding tasks not necessarily related to gaming.
Nvidia RTX 2070
The graphics card here is an absolute monster. The RTX 2070 by Nvidia is their newest product and is second only to the 2080 model. It packs the whopping 8GB of memory and can handle anything from multiple 4K monitors, through VR-setups, to 144Hz 60+ fps gaming. Think of any game on Ultra graphics and this GPU will be able to run it smoothly.
VR Capabilities
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VR is the future and there is no way around that. Having a CPU, GPU, RAM combo on your PC that can handle extreme VR gaming is a good way to know that your configuration is quite future proof and will be good for at least a good few years.
Storage
In terms of storage, you will be getting a 7200 RPM HDD storing 1TB and a fast 240GB SSD. You can put your OS and favorite games on the SSD so that the computer boots up fast and the games run smoother.
Having a game stored on an SSD increases a lot of its features such as:
- Loading speed
- Saving speed
- Initial boot up of the game
- Frame rate
Ports
Ports are quite generous but there isn’t anything rather special here. You get 2 normal USB 2.0 ports, 4x USB 3.1, an ethernet port, 7.1 Audio line in. The ports supported by the video card are an HDMI port, one display port, and a DVI.
Price & Additional Features
The price can be considered the only big flaw of this PC. It is really expensive and people on a budget just won’t be able to afford it. Still, when taking into account what is inside it can turn out to be quite the bargain but again – this is a high-end rig which however good of a value is still very expensive.
On top of your internal components you get water cooling and an RGB case. Some good additions are the extra fast wi-fi module, and the magnetic dust filter on top of the case.
You will also be getting full 1 year warranty and a lifetime support by iBuyPower. The computer comes with pre-installed windows-10 Home Edition.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- Excellent design & construction
- Comes with peripherals
- Free Windows 10 Home Edition
- Cool RGB lighting system
- Extremely powerful components
- Lifetime support & 1 Year full warranty
Cons
- Very Expensive
- The case can be a bit bulky for people with limited desk space
Gamer Helper.com Product Rating:
In terms of pure specs, the iBuyPower Trace 9220 is unbeatable. It features some of the newest and most potent processor, RAM memory, and graphics card. Those are capable of running any new game title at Ultra graphics and at more than 60 frames per second. The VR readiness is a good future-proof feature that will allow you to experience VR in all of its glory once you get a VR set. The little additions like water cooling, RGB lighting, keyboard and mouse, and the Windows 10 Home all make this an irresistible choice but the high price is enough to deter most of the people looking for a budget setup. Nevertheless, we gave this model a five out of five stars rating.
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