Budget for CPU: $1400 for PC
Budget for CPU: $1400 for PC
Looking to assemble a new PC? I’m considering an AMD option but don’t mind other brands. Since you’ll be gaming and streaming, you’ll want something powerful enough for those tasks. It’s been a while since you finalized your specs, so you might need some guidance. There are plenty of choices available.
A Ryzen 7 5800X or Intel Core i7-11700K would likely suit a budget machine in USD, but you shouldn’t hesitate to look at the Ryzen 5 5600X or Core i5-11600K for more flexibility elsewhere. Still, getting a GPU right now is quite challenging. Since you’re assembling a system from scratch, buying a ready-made unit from brands like NZXT, Digital Storm, or similar could be simpler, especially if you can find it near its MSRP.
For AMD, a 3700X or 5800X would be ideal. The 5800X offers better performance with higher speeds and efficiency, though it comes at a higher cost. Options like 3600 or 5600X are also solid for gaming, but having six cores may not be enough for demanding games in the next couple of years.
Consider skipping the Ryzen 3000. The latest Intel chips from the 10th/11th generation offer better speed and lower cost now. Zen3 delivers strong performance but comes at a higher price than Intel options. On average, Intel CPUs are 3-5% quicker for gaming than Zen3. For pricing, the tier list suggests: 10400/f, 10700/f/k,kf, 10850k, 5900x/5950x. If your region doesn’t see a significant discount on the 10th gen compared to the 11th, opt for the newer model. Among those models, choose the one with the best deal—benchmarks show only minor differences. The f series lacks integrated graphics; some prefer the k/f/kf models for future flexibility. The 10850k is notably cheaper and faster than expected, making it a top-tier option at mid-range pricing. No other processor matches its value. CPUs exceeding a 10-core i9 10850k are only the Ryzen 9s, while the 5900x costs $550. If you’re on AMD, avoid the Ryzen 3000 entirely. Go with Zen3—either the 5600x or 5800x. Don’t let brand loyalty hold you back; prioritize speed and cost if a CPU beats its rivals. For GPUs, you’ll likely need a prebuilt system, as they’re currently out of stock. Wait until you can secure a GPU or a ready PC before purchasing anything. Happy searching!