Day Trading Hackintosh

[whatup666]

I'm trying to build a Hackintosh to use for day trading. Ideally looking for:
- Something that can handle running 4 or more monitors (2 of which I already own, which are ultrawides)
- Under $1,500 (not including monitors/stands)

Does anyone have a recommendation for what motherboard/video cards I should use? Or other parts I should make sure not to cheap out on?

I was told I need a motherboard with at least 2 (if not 3) PCIE x16 slots, so any suggestions on cheap motherboards that have that or other features that cater to multi monitor setups would be greatly appreciated.

 

[chedda7]

It looks like you have the budget to build a great system for your needs. Check out the Buyer's Guide, maybe even stay close to a recommended build.

I was told I need a motherboard with at least 2 (if not 3) PCIE x16

Assuming you only plan to use GPUs in those PCIe slots, 2 should be more than enough, which can be found on mATC motherboards if you are wanting to do a small build.

Something that can handle running 4 or more monitors

If you aren't gaming, most modern graphics cards over $100 can meet this requirement. Since you are running so many monitors pay close attention to what ports the GPU offers to ensure you can connect to all monitors. Something like a GTX 1050 Ti, 1060, or RX 480 will suit you.

 

[Adrian B]

Many nvidia cards will support 4 monitors, be aware that HDMI 2 isn't a thing in the mac world - so expect these ports to work as HDMI 1.4. DisplayPort has been an Apple staple technology - you will probably find that a GTX 1050Ti should meet your requirements depending on monitor resolutions and port options.

An mATX or full size ATX board should be quite adequate for your designated requirements:
https://www.tonymacx86.com/buyersguide/april/2017

The following sections are probably the best for your computing requirements.
https://www.tonymacx86.com/buyersguide/april/2017#CustoMac_mATX
https://www.tonymacx86.com/buyersguide/april/2017#CustoMac_Budget_ATX

 

[Stork]

I agree with Adrian B. The Gigabyte GTX 950, which I'm using in my Gene build, advertised that it would support 4 monitors, and it does as I tested it to make sure even though I'm using it to driver two monitors. My point is (and Adrian B's) that you don't have to have more than one graphics card for your Day Trading set up unless your trading software recommends more than one card. IMO, Day Trading won't tax a modern graphics card like the GTX 1050 Ti or 1060.

If the Day Trading application(s) don't specify the number of graphics cards required, then you could call their tech support to inquiry about one or two graphics cards.

BTW, keep us informed on your progress because I thought about doing some day trading, too.

 

[trs96]

I would go with one of these 6GB GTX 1060s. It's got more than enough capacity and dual fans to help keep it cool as this build will be on full time 8+ hours a a day during the week if you are a Pro trader.

https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814487275&cm_re=GTX_1060-_-14-487-275-_-Product

It has capacity for 5 monitors including 1 HDMI and 3 DP. EVGA is a very high quality Gfx card brand. Great service too. If you go with this make sure to get a 500W PSU with an 8 pin connector for supplemental power.


You could also go with the 3GB version if you don't want to spend that much on graphics.

https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?item=N82E16814487263