Constructed CompleteBuilt a simple gaming setup for my son...
Constructed CompleteBuilt a simple gaming setup for my son...
After many months with the Nintendo Switch, it was finally time to upgrade my son’s setup. I wasn’t keen on jumping straight into a new console, thinking a PC could still handle schoolwork and streaming. So I began planning the necessary components a few weeks back. Everything changed when I spotted a few items on sale.
The mainboard: MSI Pro Z790-A WiFi ProSeries (133.66) from Amazon Warehouse
CPU: Intel 14600K (299.99) from Amazon
Cooler: Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE ARGB (35.99) from Amazon
SSD: NVMe M.2 AData Legend 900 (109.99) from Amazon
RAM: Crucial 32 GB - 2x16 GB DDR5 (94.99) from Amazon
GPU: ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3060 Twin Edge OC 12GB GDDR6 (266.79) from Amazon Warehouse
Sound Card: Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus Pure Edition (95.28) from Amazon Warehouse
Power Supply: Seasonic GX-850 (129.00) - Micro Center
Case: Musetex ATX Y6 (84.99) from Amazon
Packed with three ARGB fans to swap in the case fans (12.99) from Amazon
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro - OEM ($21.00) – later upgraded to Win11 Pro.
The CPU was the key factor. I narrowed it down to a few i5 and i7 options. The i5-14600K stood out due to its strong performance. For every $20–$40 more I’d pay for other CPUs, the i5’s speed made it the clear choice. I found a reasonably priced AmWarehouse model with experience, while the rest were chosen for their better performance relative to their cost.
Before installing, I flashed the BIOS on the new motherboard and then placed the 14th generation CPU inside. Everything worked smoothly. My son helped install the CPU, RAM, NVMe drive, and cooler. After booting up another PC, it ran perfectly. Then I installed the OS – no hiccups at all. It’s a solid setup!
We managed the cabling carefully; the case was a bit unconventional with the wiring positioned higher than usual. The fans and ARGB settings were tricky to get right, but once everything fit, it was satisfying.
Performance-wise, it handled Red Dead 2, Fortnight, NBA games, and more without any issues. It’s running fast and cool. I’m happy with the build so far.
I’ve run stress tests, checked CPU-Z and HWMonitor, and the PassMark test – everything is performing well. The CPU stayed under 72°C, which was impressive.
I know upgrading the GPU might be next, but for now, it’s fine. Maybe adding more storage if he gets a PlayStation or Xbox pass would be nice. It’s working great right now.
If you have any suggestions for tweaks, I’m open to hearing them. I’ll share some photos tomorrow.
I have a picture of the new build from yesterday finally. I'm dealing with a bad cold that's been lingering around the house. I'm getting ready to play with the ARGB when the boy and I are back on our feet. It turned out pretty well, and we also updated all the other drivers yesterday.