Is upgrading to a higher temperature and a newer GPU still beneficial?
Is upgrading to a higher temperature and a newer GPU still beneficial?
Hello everyone! This is my first time posting, and I appreciate your support ahead of time.
To give you some background, I come from Brazil, where the cost of the newest hardware—such as the RTX 5080—is quite high. That’s why I tend to opt for slightly older, more budget-friendly parts.
Below are my current specifications, which I assembled in early 2024:
Memory:
Gigabyte Z970 Gaming X Rev 1.0
Processor:
Intel i7 12700K (original)
GPU:
PowerColor Radeon RX 7700 XT 12GB
RAM:
XPG Lancer 32GB DDR5 5200MHz
Power Supply:
Cooler Master MWE Bronze V2 750W
Storage:
Samsung 970 EVO Plus + Kingston SNV2S
At that time, I considered purchasing an NVIDIA card, but 12GB or 16GB models were out of my budget. That’s why I chose AMD instead.
The reason I’m sharing this is because I’ve been looking at reviews and benchmarks that suggest AMD CPUs perform much better in games. On the other hand, NVIDIA’s upscaling features (like DLSS) are generally seen as superior, and the introduction of FSR 4.0 for the 9000 series adds another layer to the conversation.
My main use is gaming at 1440p with 120Hz refresh rate. I play a variety of games, both demanding on the CPU and the GPU, such as Cyberpunk 2077, Baldur’s Gate 3, Clair Obscur Expedition 33, Oblivion Remastered, and Paradox strategy titles like Stellaris.
For Stellaris, I’ve read that even the top AMD 3D V-Cache CPUs can’t fully eliminate mid- to late-game lag—it’s more about the game engine than the hardware.
I’d love your thoughts:
Should I upgrade?
Is my current configuration still sufficient for my needs?
And if an upgrade makes sense, which path would be best—upgrading the GPU, the CPU (which would need a new motherboard), or both?
A friend of mine will be traveling to the US soon, and I’d like to take this chance to buy something there to enhance my setup.
Thanks a lot in advance! I’m a loyal member of this community.
I don't believe you should switch platforms; the 12700k is more than sufficient. The graphics card is the main issue, as well as the RAM—preferably a 6000MHz CL 30 for a Ryzen setup to get the best performance. A 5200 would limit it, and the same applies to the 12700k. The power supply would also need an upgrade to support PCIe 5 graphics and a 12vhpwr cable if you choose a Nvidia card (the 5060ti is an exception but still uses standard 8pin connectors). Using an Amd GPU with this setup isn't universal either. Staying with the 12700k means investing more in RAM, GPU, and PSU upgrades rather than cutting corners for a cheaper option.
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
MB:
Gigabyte Z970 Gaming X Rev 1.0
What is the BIOS version for your motherboard?
PSU:
Cooler Master MWE Bronze V2 750W
How would you rate this PSU?
You didn’t specify the case model. How are you keeping the processor cool?
Considering these points, here’s my take:
Should I upgrade?
Is my current configuration still adequate for my requirements? And if an upgrade makes sense, which components should I focus on—upgrading the GPU, the CPU (which would need a new board), or both?
If you’re planning an upgrade, what budget are you planning to set aside for these changes? Personally, I think it’s best not to move beyond the 12th Gen onto 13th and 14th Gen because of performance drops and firmware problems.
One area where you can definitely improve is your RAM, from XPG Lancer 32GB DDR5 5200MHz to something with DDR5-6000MT/s or even higher, with minimal latency, in a dual 2GB kit, featuring Intel’s X.M.P as advertised. If you’re using an RX 9070 XT, it would be wise to pair it with a more robust PSU and higher wattage to match the GPU.
A friend of mine is traveling to the US soon, and I’d like to seize the chance to upgrade there.
I’d prefer not to do that because locally made parts usually come with better warranty support.
I don't believe you should switch platforms; the 12700k is more than sufficient. The graphics card is the issue, as well as the RAM—preferably a 6000MHz CL 30 for a Ryzen setup to get the best performance, whereas 5200 would limit it. The PSU needs updating too to support PCIe 5 graphics and a 12vhpwr cable if you choose Nvidia (the 5060ti is an exception but still uses standard 8pin connectors). Using some Amd graphics cards with this setup isn't ideal for all models. Staying with the 12700k means investing more in quality RAM, GPU, and PSU rather than cutting corners.
Here is your revised text:
First of all, thank you very much for your thorough reply! Below are my responses:
BIOS version for your motherboard?
The BIOS version is F13, which was released in June of this year.
How would the PSU age?
I purchased it in December 2023, so it's less than two years old.
You didn't mention the make and model of your case. How are you managing to cool the processor?
The case is a Montech Sky One Lite (I bought better 120mm fans—three front and one back, all from Arctic, and two from Thermalright on the bottom). To keep the CPU cool, I use a 240mm water cooler in Rise Mode (a Brazilian brand) along with two fans from the same brand. I’m planning to buy a more reliable WC soon.
If you’re thinking about an upgrade, what budget have you set aside for these improvements?
Your budget is flexible. At first, it was 5 thousand reais (about one thousand dollars), which covered a new RTX 5070 Ti. My plan was to choose the upgrades I wanted and then secure the funds.
In fact, there’s definitely room to upgrade in your RAM.
Yes, I was told earlier today, and that upgrade has now been added to my list.
If you’re considering an RX 9070 XT, you should think about a higher-quality, more powerful PSU to match the GPU.
Do you feel it’s necessary to upgrade the PSU if you switch from an RX 9070 XT to an RTX 5070 Ti? (Edit: That was already addressed by Boju. Upgrading the PSU is definitely required.)
In my opinion, it makes no sense to move beyond the 12th Gen to the 13th and 14th Gen because of processor wear and firmware problems.
Yes, I’ve read that before and agree with you. I’m now convinced that upgrading the CPU isn’t worth it right now.
I’d skip it since locally made parts usually come with better warranties.
You’re correct. I had overlooked this important point—most of my purchases are from local suppliers.
That’s all. Thank you once again! Feel free to ask if you need more details.
I wasn't aware of that regarding the PSU. It's helpful, as it significantly alters my plans. Thank you very much!