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My thoughts on the Skytech Shiva II Gaming PC White (2024)
Introduction
I recently upgraded my gaming setup to the Skytech Shiva II Gaming PC. I’ve spent a good chunk of time with this PC now - more on my thoughts on it below.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specific Uses For Product | Multimedia, Personal, Gaming | Brand | Skytech Gaming |
| Personal computer design type | Computer Tower | Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 1 TB | Screen Size | 1 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 16 GB | Model Name | Shiva II |
| Included Components | Power Cord | CPU Model | Core i5 |
Photos
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Prices
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The Highs and Lows of Gaming Performance
When it comes to gaming performance, the Skytech Shiva II Gaming PC packs a significant punch, resulting in mostly smooth and visually stunning gameplay. Here’s my take:
Pros:
The INTEL Core i5 12600K processor delivers reliable performance with a max boost up to 4.9GHz, ensuring fast and responsive gaming experiences.
The NVIDIA Geforce RTX 3060 Ti graphics card brings games to life with excellent frame rates, even at 1440p Quad HD resolution.
16GB of DDR4 RAM is ample for gaming and multitasking, meaning less lag and more frags.
A 1TB NVME SSD provides lightning-fast load times, which is a game-changer for titles with significant loading screens.
Windows 11 Home 64-bit comes pre-installed, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates from Microsoft.
Cons:
Some users report issues with the power supply unit (PSU), which might require an additional investment for peace of mind.
A few have noted that the WiFi antenna was missing upon delivery, which is a minor inconvenience that can be rectified but shouldn’t be overlooked.
Some concerns were raised about graphic output ports not providing enough room for cables, potentially calling for alternate solutions or adapters.
Straight off the bat, I appreciate the suite of modern titles that this PC can handle at ultra settings. Games like Elden Ring and Call of Duty Warzone demand high-performance hardware, and Shiva II stands tall here. Another standout feature is the use of Nvidia DLSS; the AI-assisted upscaling is a major boon, preserving those precious frames per second while maintaining crisp visuals.
One can’t mention high-end gaming without touching on ray tracing. It’s a must-have feature for anyone serious about graphics, and the RTX 3060 Ti does not disappoint. The level of immersion in games with ray tracing is noticeably enhanced — we’re talking about lifelike lighting and shadow effects that can be game-changing.
However, it’s not all sunshine in the land of Shiva II. The included power supply has been a point of criticism among some users. While it isn’t a universal problem, having to potentially replace a PSU out of the gate can be a frustration, detracting from the otherwise high-end components.
The minor issue with the HDMI port fitting is also not ideal. In a perfect world, every detail of a pre-built system would work flawlessly, so needing to troubleshoot hardware fit on a new rig is a bit of a downer.
Despite these drawbacks, the overall value proposition of the Shiva II is strong. For gamers who want to experience modern titles in their full glory without delving into the nuances of building a custom setup, it’s a compelling option. While the potential for upgrades or replacements (like the PSU) is there, the out-of-the-box experience is bound to satisfy the majority of gamers searching for high-quality performance on a mid-range budget.
Aesthetics and Build Quality of Shiva II
When it comes to the Shiva II’s aesthetics and build quality, there’s definitely a lot to appreciate. For starters, the white ATX Mid-Tower case with tempered glass gives the rig an elegant and modern vibe that fits nicely into a gaming setup. It’s definitely a head-turner with its neat design and the single RGB fan included adds just enough flair without going overboard.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Design: Sleek, with a white modern case and tempered glass side panel.
Quality: Feels durable and well put together.
Cooling: Comes with a 240mm AIO for liquid cooling in the higher-tier version.
Lighting: The RGB fan and potential for more customization are nice touches.
However, I’ve got to point out that while it looks cool, the case’s design could potentially limit airflow, something that you don’t want in a high-performance gaming setup. But in my case, I haven’t noticed any significant heat issues so far.
On the downside, I’ve read some reports of flimsy peripherals—like a potentially cheaply-made PSU—which could be a letdown considering the overall solid build of the main components. That said, the internals seem to be a mix of high-quality brand names and some lesser-known components, but they haven’t been a cause for concern in my usage; my experience so far has been smooth.
Let’s not overlook the extras like the free gaming keyboard and mouse. They’re not top-of-the-line by any means, but hey, they work straight out of the box and are more than adequate for someone just diving into PC gaming. I’d recommend considering an upgrade if you’re a more serious gamer or if you pound the WASD keys as much as I do.
Although the cable management inside the case seems to be done professionally and contributes to the overall clean aesthetic, I wouldn’t mind having more room for future expansions. More space could provide better airflow and makes for easier upgrades, which I believe is quite important for a PC pitched as being future proof.
Speaking candidly, while not without its potential shortcomings, the Shiva II strikes a commendable balance between a visually pleasing design and a solid build. For gaming aficionados who value both style and substance, the Skytech Shiva II is a notable contender that’ll likely serve you well without breaking the bank. Just keep an eye out for the details, like that PSU, and you should be golden.
Future Proofing and Upgradability Options
One of the key aspects I look for in a gaming PC is the potential for future upgrades. The Skytech Shiva II ticks several boxes in that regard, but like any rig, it has its limitations. The inclusion of an Intel Core i5 12600K processor provides a strong foundation, but it’s worth noting that as games continue to evolve, I may find myself craving more processing power. Thankfully, the Shiva II’s motherboard should support future chips from Intel’s lineup, provided they remain within the same socket type.
High-speed storage is a must for gaming, and the 1TB NVME SSD in the Shiva II is a solid choice. It’s great for load times and system responsiveness, but given my ever-growing game library, additional storage is an inevitable necessity. Luckily, there are options to add more 2.5-3” storage drives, which is a relief.
The heart of any gaming system is the GPU, and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti guarantees solid performance. But it’s not just about raw power; features like DLSS and ray tracing support make a world of difference in visual fidelity. It’ll be interesting to see how long these features will suffice before an upgrade is desired.
To break it down, here’s a quick summary of the upgradability options:
Processor: Upgrade path available with compatibility to future Intel CPUs, pending socket type.
Storage: Easily augmentable with additional drives.
GPU: High-end for now, with DLSS and ray tracing support, but ultimately upgradable.
While the upgradability is a notable positive, it’s also crucial to address a few drawbacks. For one, the power supply unit (PSU) could be a bottleneck. Upgrading to a more powerful GPU or CPU in the future may demand a higher-quality PSU. Moreover, the system’s cooling must be able to handle more powerful components, so I’d keep an eye on the potential need for a cooling system upgrade, too.
In summary, the Skytech Shiva II positions itself quite well for a future-proof gaming experience with a balanced set of components and upgradability options. While it’s not without its limitations, like potentially needing a better PSU and more robust cooling, it provides a solid base that won’t become obsolete too quickly. Just bear in mind, no system is fully future-proof, so it’s always a balancing act between current demands and future expectations.
Experience with Skytech Customer Service and Support
My interaction with Skytech customer service and support has been mostly positive, yet I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a few of the drawbacks. I’ll break down my experiences, so it’s easier to digest:
Positive Aspects:
Responsiveness: When I reached out with an inquiry, their support team was quick to respond. I wasn’t left hanging for days as is common with some companies.
Technical Assistance: The technical support was knowledgeable. They guided me through troubleshooting, which is critical for a non-techie like me.
Warranty Service: Knowing that there is a 1-year warranty on parts and labor with lifetime technical support provides peace of mind.
Drawbacks:
Hardware Issues: The graphics card issue I encountered was quite a letdown. It’s frustrating when you’re all set up to dive in, and something goes wrong.
Missing Components: It’s inconvenient when what you receive isn’t complete, like missing WiFi antennas or power cords. It’s a hiccup you don’t want when you’re eager to get started.
Overall, the positives have outweighed the negatives. I got into gaming not just for the thrill but for the community and the tech experience. When you choose a pre-built PC like the Skytech Shiva II, you expect a certain level of “plug and play” simplicity, and admittedly, it’s been mostly that. Although the power supply quality has been a concern within my circles, I have yet to face that issue personally.
I did hear back from Skytech quickly when I had questions post-purchase, which is a testament to their commitment to customer care. Their technical support is solid, and they didn’t leave me scrambling for answers. However, if you require physical components to be mailed, patience is needed–a common theme in tech support across the board these days.
It’s these positive experiences with customer service and the knowledge that support is just a call away that reinforce my choice. Despite a few hiccups, I feel supported. I’m also heartened to see reports that the company takes feedback seriously and looks to improve their service and product quality continually.
For anyone diving into the world of PC gaming, particularly with a Skytech machine, the community forums, and customer service are valuable resources. If you do hit a roadblock, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, even if you’re new to this, the support is there to get you through those initial bumps. So, while there are some cons to be mindful of, on the whole, the pros carry more weight for my gaming experience and peace of mind.
In conclusion, Skytech’s customer service and support have been reliable allies in my gaming journey with the Shiva II. They are quick to assist and provide peace of mind, which is what you need when you’re investing in a gaming rig like this.