Consider what you need to improve and choose the best option for you.
Consider what you need to improve and choose the best option for you.
I previously had a pre-built system with a B660 Gaming X DDR4 board, an i5-12600KF, Vengeance RGB Pro SL (2x8GB) at 3200MHz and a 3060. Now I’m thinking about improving it. The cables are already a bit tangled. I’m planning to build my own rack since my desk setup is all my own (I bought a tray but it doesn’t fit). My main goal is to add more RAM, but the motherboard limits me to upgrading the CPU after the 12th generation. What kind of board should I choose if I want flexibility for future upgrades? I play a lot of modded Minecraft and heavy games, so even with reduced RAM it’s not ideal. I also spend a lot of time browsing manga and manhwa online, switching tabs hundreds of times each week. I really need a stronger CPU—probably an i7 or i9 in the next generation. As long as it doesn’t affect my hobbies, upgrading would make life easier. After all, life should be enjoyable.
I’d keep things as they are unless you’re aiming for a significantly better GPU. Your motherboard handles 12th, 13th, and 14th generation chips fine. That’s no problem. You can opt for a 13700k or 14700k. Avoid the 13900k/14900k unless necessary. For RAM, I’d choose either a 2x16 or 2x32 configuration—don’t add extra slots. Just remove the old sticks and install the new ones. What’s your CPU cooler?
The boxes from the 13th and 14th generations weren’t available. Cooler could manage 14700k if required, but it really depends on your GPU upgrade plan—otherwise you might just need more RAM instead.
I plan to replace my GPS with either a 4060 or a 3060 Ti when it’s upgraded. A dual GPU setup would also work, as both options offer similar performance. I won’t face compatibility issues since they’re comparable. The temperature concern is minimal here because it’s cold in the UK. Upgrading my CPU after RAM seems more pressing to me. I rely on Opera GX for reading, but opening many tabs puts a strain on it.
I’ve relied on NVIDIA for many years. I’m okay spending a little time to secure it because I’m familiar with their tools. Even though some might think it’s unnecessary, I trust it performs well and I can keep updating the drivers.
Right, so I’m upgrading my RAM first since that’s the main thing holding me back right now apart from the motherboard which is annoying (it’s the B660 Gaming x DDR4 so it can’t use DDR5 and it’ll soon become outdated so it’s not really future proof and I’ll have to change it sometime). I’ve confirmed that I’ll get 64GB of RAM but I don’t know what’s the best sticks to get for a gaming system. Vengeance pro is apparently the best for the cost but I don’t know if that’s just about cost effectiveness, I’m not looking for that I’m purely looking for the best of the best ddr4. Dominator is a bit much for the price, even I’m not willing to spend that much for it. I’m looking to spend £120-200 on the 64GB RAM. If possible then I’d even take 128GB with 4 sticks but I heard there’s no reason to use 4 sticks unless it’s purely for more storage. Edited February 3, 2024 by RoCarter09
I didn't grasp your reasoning about 64GB for gaming or the reference to 128GB. The idea of getting another 2x8 configuration feels redundant since you're already using 32GB effectively. You seem confused about why a smaller upgrade like 32GB wouldn't be enough, and it makes sense that you'd prefer a more practical approach rather than chasing higher capacities unnecessarily.