Consider upgrading to the x870 "e" model for better performance and features.
Consider upgrading to the x870 "e" model for better performance and features.
I recently upgraded my 3080 to a 5080 and decided to expand my build on Newegg. I'm planning to upgrade my 5900x to a 9800x3D and needed a motherboard. I was using an x570 crosshair Hero on my 5900x, but the x870 crosshair Hero costs $700. I’m hoping for something more affordable. I came across the Asus Strix X870e and Strix X870f models. Would it be worth spending an extra $100 for the “e” version? I’ll stick with my 5080 and a 2x M.2 SSD, using a SATA SSD as my third drive. Right now I’m not planning to go beyond 32GB of RAM or aim for 64GB later.
You're looking for something practical rather than flashy. These motherboards are costly, but they aren't essential for gaming. I'm using an ASUS TUF B650 PLUS WIFI paired with my own 9800X3D that's overclocked to 5.5Ghz, which runs smoothly and efficiently. High cost doesn't always equal better performance.
I'll examine those items. Saving around $200 would be helpful to direct toward the RAM.
Choose your RAM immediately, whether it's quantity or speed. Stick with the 2x capacity limit; adding more later will cause issues. Available options include 2x16, 2x24, 2x32 and 2x48GB kits—make your call now. Use 6000CL30 for optimal compatibility and performance.
Yes, it's been well recorded over the last couple of years. Most people who aren't experts won't recommend buying a 4 unless you're experienced and ready to possibly slow things down. It's mostly not useful since you can now get 96GB in 2-dimm setups. (It seems 64GB CUDIMM models are finally coming up)
I went with 32GB of 6000C30 because I don't use 32GB right now, and what I saved on a high end kit now, I can put towards either the 9900X3D or 9950X3D. I looked at X870E-E, and did not like how it split lanes the way it does to use the 5th M.2. And the price, almost double the older series where I live. I grabbed a Strix X670E-F. I can fill all the M.2 onboard, and use the bottom slot to run my last M.2. And I don't need USB 4 and WIFI7 yet.
I've been researching AM5, CPUs, and Mobo components since 2020 after switching from AM4. It's been a while until I started exploring upgrades again this week. It seems I'm considering either two 16GB or two 32GB SSDs paired with a B850 Strix board, along with a 9800x3D. I was planning to wait for the 9900x3D but read somewhere that the 12C and 16C X3D chips have some issues. I do 1440p gaming, so I think the 9800x3D would still be a solid upgrade over my 5900X.
My thoughts were alike since I also don’t require Wi-Fi 7; I prefer wired connections and haven’t needed USB 4 yet.