Compare the two models and see which suits your needs best.
Compare the two models and see which suits your needs best.
Spent a good two hours checking if it’s worth the trip, but didn’t find any clear figures. Anyone know if it’s a decent side project? Spending another $50 isn’t an option for me. The 6300 seems to handle current use okay. I’m looking for something similar or better that doesn’t cost much and works well on a 16GB RAM system with a 1280x1024 monitor. Minecraft is the main game, running on CPU in GTA 5, and most other games can play on a toaster powered by a half-eaten potato.
the person assisting doesn’t want something in used condition; they already have three CPUs and two boards, all of which are DoA. they value the certainty that if anything occurs, there’s a guarantee it will function properly.
Even the FX 8370 struggles to compete with the 3000G, as you can see in GN's video about it. That's the flagship Piledriver part, not even the downclocked 6300 which has one or two cores removed, depending on your politics. However, the 3000G is hardly a big upgrade from the FX CPUs. If you already have an FX 6300 system, I'd save up for something better. There's no point in spending money for a side-grade.
For a $200 build, the 3000G seems like the top choice. Pair it with an affordable B450 board that still allows future upgrades. A used unit would be preferable, but if you must go new, it has to be brand new. Avoid FX builds right now—they were released on a limited platform and the current market for new FX CPUs is saturated with low-quality options from companies trying to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers.
Take care of yourself and switch to a different site, you can afford a 10th gen i3 without integrated graphics for $100 (performance close to Skylake/kaby lake i7). A used refurb board from Newegg costs around $65, and 16GB DDR4 RAM is available for $55. If you’re willing to spend about $300, consider a 10th gen i5 instead of the i3, or go for a second or third generation Ryzen chip if you find a good deal. Intel still has solid stock and offers good value for budget components overall.
The non-X Ryzen models offer the best overall performance and efficiency, while the X series boasts higher power consumption ratings. For a typical desktop setup, they make a solid selection and the 3000G variant is suitable. You might consider an FX model only if necessary—they function adequately but lag behind modern options. Their main benefit lies in supporting high clock speeds and handling multitasking, though their overall efficiency is limited compared to current offerings. Even the older Ryzen 3s outperform FX chips in many scenarios. Unless you already own FX components, a standard AM4 build would be more practical.