Create a new guide for upgrading to a system with an i7 930 processor
Create a new guide for upgrading to a system with an i7 930 processor
In my view, this is the optimal choice for any production-focused build.
The 265k model will outperform or match any non-9950x CPU for these tasks.
The x890 motherboards offer significantly more and superior features compared to the AMD B850 or X870 boards. For now, I’d opt for a solid 2TB NVMe SSD and expand storage later if needed. You can easily move files from the OS drive to a larger storage device once you acquire one. A 64 GB fast RAM module will also ensure your PC remains relevant for another ten years or more. I stayed within the budget, keeping it under $1000.
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K 3.9 GHz 20-Core Processor
($359.99 @ B&H)
CPU Cooler:
Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE 66.17 CFM CPU Cooler
($35.90 @ Amazon)
Motherboard:
ASRock Z890 LiveMixer WiFi ATX LGA1851 Motherboard
($239.99 @ Amazon)
Memory:
Patriot Viper Venom 64 GB (2 x 32 GB) DDR5-6400 CL32 Memory
($159.99 @ Amazon)
Storage:
Western Digital Black SN770 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 4.0 X4 NVME SSD
($119.99 @ Newegg)
Case:
Cooler Master HAF X ATX Full Tower Case
(Purchased For $0.00)
Power Supply:
Thermaltake Toughpower GF A3 - TT Premium Edition 750 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
($79.98 @ Amazon)
Total:
$995.84
Prices cover shipping, taxes, and available discounts
Generated by
PCPartPicker
2025-01-17 13:44 EST-0500
My main worry is about the RAM space around the cooler, but the case design allows the fan to move freely and maintain airflow. I’d still choose this SSD despite the extra $10, thanks to its 6-year warranty and built-in DRAM cache.
The patriot viper kit looks quite understated. I've used it with a cooler, and it fits perfectly beneath the phantom spirit cooler fan. I don't know about that specific SSD, but it seems like a simple upgrade worth around ten dollars, especially considering the Dram cache it offers. For the next level up, I suggest the Crucial T500 in the 2TB version for about 140 dollars. It might be my new choice if the price stays steady. Thanks!
That is exactly what I opted for in my 'PC under construction'.
All the parts here, just waiting for time to assemble.
i'm in the uk, so i can't check us prices but i can try some tips and you can verify us prices.
i suggest
cpu.== ryzen am5 7700/7700x
cpu cooler.== 240mm+ aioi (minimum)
motherboard.== any b650 with 4 ram slots
psu.== it's possible to upgrade the current one, it's more than 3 years old.
ram== ddr5 2x32gb 6000mt+
case.== keep case if it fits new parts (it should work)
hard drive== 1tb nvme or 1tb ssd
new windows os.== just clone your windows 10 to a new drive and it should provide a free update to win 11..
gpu.== nvidia 3060 (even a 2060), or rx 6600 (or rx5700xt). this should get you started and allow upgrading in a few months when gpu prices drop...
these options should all be possible under $900 if you browse on amazon usa.
Not focusing on the newest trends here. Music production and some gaming. The upcoming cards will use half the budget or double it.
Swapping in a 560Ti is fine; AMD APU or built-in graphics should suffice.
Photoshop can still make use of GPU power for filters and similar tasks, which is a nice bonus.
Not a perfect match:
https://www.videocardbenchmark.net/...00...l-Arc-B580
It’s clear the 3060 offers more compute than the others, paired with 12GB of VRAM. It’s uncertain how well the B580 handles software yet, and they’re currently hard to find.
The RTX 4060 provides even greater compute but only 8GB of VRAM, costing around $300. If I had that amount, I’d likely opt for an RX 7600 for better value ($250).