Create AdviceSuggestions for new builds?
Create AdviceSuggestions for new builds?
Hey there,
I've been here for a while now and am finally diving into building my first PC. I'm looking for some advice on the process. So far, I only have a basic understanding of computers but have been wanting to build one for years. Since I'm starting college, I thought it was time to take the plunge. I'm aiming for a nice look with a white and black theme and some blue RGB accents.
I've decided on these components:
Case: Corsair 5000D AIRFLOW ATX Mid Tower Case (may change when I see cases in person)
CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D
Motherboard: MSI X670E MAG Tomahawk WiFi
Memory: G.Skill Flare X5 Series 48GB DDR5 5200 Kit (from CPU, motherboard, and RAM bundle at Micro Center)
CPU Cooler: Considering a NZXT liquid cooler (?)
GPU: Still undecided between a 4070 Ti Super and a 4070 Super
I'm seeking suggestions on my choices so far, recommendations for PSUs, opinions on my selections, and any other items I should consider. I'll be visiting Microcenter later today, and since I'm still a student, any tips on saving money are appreciated. Thanks!
I'm sorry for not being more specific! I'll be using this for streaming, gaming, video editing, 3d modeling, and school projects (art-related tasks). I won't be overclocking and don't expect to need anything at 4k resolution.
I've been thinking about getting one of micro center's bundles for a while now, and when comparing it to buying separately it seemed more sensible for me. This isn't an impulsive decision, especially with other parts involved. This is my first time asking online, so it's just the beginning. I won't pick up all the components today—just the CPU bundle—and will check out the rest in person.
My budget is quite flexible because I've been saving for this a while (around 3k, but I'd like to stay around 2k). Ideally, I want it to last a long time or be upgradeable as needed, but I also value saving money.
Offhand it goes... You might face some criticism about the 5200 RAM. I’m not sure if Microcenter would approve of a faster RAM option with just a small price hike in the package.
You could get more complaints when purchasing CPU, board, and RAM together now, without any other benefits. Honestly, you’d only realize the problem later when trying to put things together. It’s safer to buy everything at once.
If your budget allows some flexibility, I’d say the savings from a bundle wouldn’t matter much for a PC costing over 2000 dollars. You might save 100, but possibly more—though I’m not sure.
What’s your main reason for choosing this CPU?
Sorry for the tone, but I wasn't trying to come across as rude. I just wanted to clarify my thoughts. I plan to ask if the ram swap is possible and if 6000 would be fine. Also, thanks for your advice on the second point—I hadn’t thought about it before. The bundle helps me save around 200, so I thought it was worth it.
On the CPU side, I usually handle multiple tasks well, so I believe the 7950 is a better fit than the 7800 even though there’s a slight difference in gaming performance. Please let me know if the info I gathered is correct!
I really appreciate you talking through this with me, though. Since this is my first PC and I’m still learning all this, I’m not very experienced with all the details.
Not sure why you're apologizing about your tone. I didn't notice any and didn't take offense anywhere in this discussion. Maybe you meant "off the top of my head" instead of something else? I just meant that quickly.
Yes, having 6000 RAM would ease the frowning. I think AMD values faster RAM.
Are you still planning to buy something today—prefer a bundle or more than one?
I don't know the exact bundles available at your Microcenter right now. But perhaps you're not locked into a bundle if needed. It's your call... I don't know how much you care about price.
Microcenter usually offers good products, but they often bundle slower models or items with excess stock... maybe something like 5200 RAM.
Can you list your PC needs in order of priority? Mostly gaming? Not so much?
On the psu, purchase only a high-quality unit. Probably not from the microcenter brand.
Seek a warranty of 10 years or more for better reliability.
The extra expense of an 850w versus 950w is generally minimal.
A psu consumes only the power it needs, no matter its maximum capacity.
Seasonic is a solid choice, as is Corsair rm.
Avoid liquid cooling if an effective air cooler suffices.
Aio coolers tend to wear out over time.
Sorry it seems like you misunderstood that! Is it okay to have a 6000 or should I consider going further for something even quicker? I was thinking about purchasing since this is the day I can go down there, but I could wait longer if it’s really not advised to buy one of the bundles. There are other bundle options available, like a 32GB 6000 DDR5 model, but if speed matters more, I could skip using the bundle's RAM and save around 100 compared to 200. For my PC priorities, I believe my art projects and video editing are more important than gaming, especially since I don’t play very intense games. Streaming is likely to be somewhere in between.
I'm not very sure about the right wattage yet, as I've heard that keeping power usage below 80% is ideal. Would an 850W be fine or should I opt for a higher one? Also, since this is my first build, I wasn't sure if the airflow from an AIO would be sufficient—what coolers do you recommend instead? Thanks!
There are always minor changes in RAM speed, but problems can arise if you exceed certain limits... without knowing the exact Microcenter inventory, I recommend sticking with G Skill Flare 6000. That's a solid option.
48 GB is usually seen as excessive, but since you're aiming for durability, that's fine.
We can't view all bundles or general stock at your Microcenter, making it difficult. I'd suggest waiting. Bundles are like streetcars... another one will appear soon. Who knows if you'll prefer it? Besides, 200 dollars for 2000 isn't a huge deal.
I’d definitely look into air cooling. Thermaltake, Noctua, and Deepcool are good choices. You could spend around 40 or 50 dollars on better components. A dual tower setup with 120 mm fans would be ideal.
You haven’t mentioned power supplies yet—this adds another layer to consider.
Your GPU selection is still uncertain.