This isn't low end (well maybe it is now), but when I was taking a class on deep learning last year, I decided I would build my own machine, or "box" as people love to call it. After researching every blog I could find, I decided on a dual RTX 2060 system, for the ultimate in deep learning value. $700 of tensor core power...the ability to train two models simultaneously...and real-time ray tracing for that occasional game of Anthem!

What a colossal, expensive mistake that was. When you build a dual GPU system, you MUST make sure the cooling is top notch. I figured with my full ATX board and an empty slot between the cards, I could save a few bucks by buying the cheapest cards out there. Wrong. Temps quickly ran up near 90C, and even jerry-rigging an extra fan in between didn't help. I spent way more time trying not to fry the darn things, than engaging in any actual deep learning. The only learning being had was that I was in deep [expletive].

Eventually I gave up and pulled one of the cards out, instantly wasting $350. A few months later, the wheels really started to come off. Deep learning models were quickly starting to get bigger and bigger, to the point where some will not fit on a 6GB card. Had I simply bought one 8GB 2070, I would have saved myself $200 and gotten a much more useful machine.

As for gaming...the reviews alone on Anthem scared me away, so I decided not to clog up my pokey internet connection trying to download it. And really, I'm a retro gamer at heart. I'm not wowed by graphics, and I can't stand DRM. So now I do indeed have a box - a very expensive one that may as well be a litterbox.