Get advice on CPU upgrades for Build AdviceCPU?
Get advice on CPU upgrades for Build AdviceCPU?
Hey everyone, I'm trying to switch out my old CPU but feel stuck with all the choices.
Current setup:
- GPU: ASUS RTX 2060 Phoenix 6gb
- CPU: i7 6700k
- RAM: 16GB DDR3 1600 MHz
- Memory type: AsRock Z170 DDR3
What I need:
- Support for 1080p or 1440p gaming
- Better performance and lower latency
- AMD CPU, preferably AM4 but open to AM5
- Avoid bottlenecks, but a GPU bottleneck would help if it makes games run smoother
What I’ve tried so far:
- 5800x
- 5700x3d
- 7800x3d if I find a good Black Friday deal for the GPU later
Budget: up to €500, ideally.
I’ll also upgrade my RAM once I decide on the CPU.
My main games are Counter Strike 2, Cities Skylines 1 & 2, Cyberpunk, and RDR2.
Understanding how to request new build or upgrade guidance
This guide is an adaptation of the Animal's *How To Ask For New Build Advice* Sticky. I developed it after noticing many recent inquiries about upgrades both on this platform and the CPU forums, and I believe it can help clarify the process.
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
Budget: up to 500€, preferably less.
Where are you based? Best site for buying? Let's avoid mentioning Europe unless you specify a country so users in your area can offer helpful advice. This platform and most of its audience are based in the USA.
To add, you're interested in a new motherboard and RAM. I recommend switching to an AM5 platform if you aim for 1440p resolution, but the RTX 2060 may not be sufficient.
The thread has been moved from the CPUs section to the Systems section.
€500 provides the following items:
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 9600X 3.9 GHz 6-Core Processor (€190.30 @ Amazon Deutschland)
CPU Cooler: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital 88.89 CFM CPU Cooler (€42.90 @ Amazon Deutschland)
Motherboard: ASRock B850M Pro-A Micro ATX AM5 Motherboard (€140.07 @ Amazon Deutschland)
Memory: Patriot Viper Venom 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6400 CL32 Memory (€117.63 @ Amazon Deutschland)
Total: €490.90
Shipping, taxes, and available discounts are included
Generated by PCPartPicker
2025-10-18 11:59 CEST+0200
Note: AM4 CPU is preferred; DDR4 RAM remains more affordable than DDR5.
With the newest CPU models you receive superior value in terms of performance per dollar.
I'm from Slovenia. Funtech, mylemon and Komponentko are some sites I'm checking. I'm considering AM5 because the prices aren't too high. I plan to put this in the CPU once I find a good one, then decide on RAM and MB. What "x3d" CPU would you suggest since the 5800x3d is no longer available? Maybe AM5 would be better.
Thanks. I've saved these components. I've heard many people regretting their choice for going with AM5 for various reasons, so I wanted to explore it more. In the end, I think I'll go with AM5.
The PSU is a bit older but that's about it. It will require a full rebuild. However, if I get a solid CPU recommendation, I can handle the rest. I'm struggling with all these new CPU generations and feel stuck between getting good performance without overspending and making sure my GPU stays up-to-date without causing a bottleneck.
#1 - R7 9800X3D. I'm playing two of these myself. My specifications are listed in my profile. One chip costs around €500. With additional upgrades like a motherboard, cooler, and more RAM, you could expect to spend between €800 and €1000.
#2 - R7 7800X3D. A former king of games. Less powerful than the 9800X3D but still a solid choice.
#3 - R5 7600X3D. Performs better in games than the R7 9700X, though availability might be limited.
Further reading:
https://www.techpowerup.com/review/amd-r...3d/18.html
Not available yet, but rumors suggest:
R5 9600X3D
Regrets show people had unrealistic expectations compared to the results.
Even with free items, complaints are common.
Personally, I have no regrets about going with an AM5 setup. The new CPU is MILES better than my old one (i5-6600K). The same applies to my new motherboard, cooler, and DDR5 RAM.
Here are the items listed:
ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 priced at €121,90
AMD Ryzen 5 7500F for €143,19
DeepCool AK400 for €27,24
Funtech - Kingston FURY Beast 32GB (2x16) DDR5 6000 MHz CL30 (KF560C30BBK2-32)
Specialized gaming and professional tech store, offering professional, gaming, and innovative solutions.
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