Dark Knight Project - PC Performance Boost to 4K Resolution - Revised 30 November 2020
Dark Knight Project - PC Performance Boost to 4K Resolution - Revised 30 November 2020
Edited on 30 November 2020 – Hello all, longtime admirer but newcomer to the discussion. I’ve transferred my gaming setup from the studio to the living room, using it also as a media hub. To enhance its performance, I’m planning an upgrade for 4K playback on the smart TV connected to it (Samsung 4K). The current PC specs are: CPU – Intel i5-9600k, Cooler – Cryorig C7 Mobo, Motherboard – Asus TUF Z390-Pro, SSD – Samsung 960 1T, RAM – 2x16GB at 3333Mhz, CPU – C16 Corsair Vengeance LPX. Power supply is Corsair RM-750X. I’m considering a switch to an Asus TUF 3070 Ti or TUF 3080 Ti for personal reasons.
Upgrades under consideration:
1) Boost RAM to 2x16GB at 3200/3600Mhz C16 modules.
2) Replace the case for better airflow and aesthetics, thinking about the Fractal Design Meshify 2 (dark style preferred).
3) Upgrade the CPU cooler – suggestions point toward Noctua NH-U12S, NH-C14S, or NH-U14S.
Questions & Doubts:
- Which RAM, case, and cooler would you recommend given my current build?
- Why do you think these upgrades matter?
- What parts might limit performance in your experience?
- What improvements could ensure long-term stability?
Thanks for your support and advice so far! – N.
Memory speed isn't as crucial on Intel CPUs before the 10th generation, but reaching 3600 MHz seems worthwhile. At 4K performance, the i5 and RTX 3070/3080 work well together without major issues. I anticipate some CPU limitations in more demanding games, so consider boosting the i5 9600K to around 5 GHz if cooling permits.
The NH-U12S offers the best value with full overclock potential, while the black variant complements your theme at a slightly higher cost. The NH-C14S provides a lower profile but costs more than the U12S. The NH-U14S delivers superior cooling and supports future upgrades, though it's pricier and bulkier. No direct comparison between U12S and C14S was found. For your setup, @AndreiArgeanu would be a good choice to consider.
I’m reviewing these choices in order from cheapest to most expensive:
1) Silverstone FARA R1
2) Corsair 4000D Airflow
3) Lian-Li Torre E-ATX LANCOOL II Mesh
4) Fractal Design Meshify S2 (or unsure about the distinction...)
Please let me know if you’d like feedback.