Looking for guidance on improving your build?
Looking for guidance on improving your build?
Hello, this is my first time joining such a forum, so please forgive any mistakes or if it ended up in the wrong section :/
I’m updating my setup from around 2012 and am considering upgrading the motherboard, CPU, graphics card, RAM, and other components.
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
Motherboard: ASUS P8Z77-V LE PLUS
CPU: i7 3770K 3.5GHz
CPU Cooler: Corsair H60
GPU: EVGA GTX 670 stock
Power Supply: Corsair TX750 80+ Bronze - 85% efficiency
RAM: 8GB (link provided)
Case: Cooler Master HAF X
CPU-Z links:
CPU: http://imgur.com/ig6wf5Q
GPU: http://imgur.com/OKPRon7
RAM: http://imgur.com/5nkeEsk
Up to this point, these are the changes I’m thinking about, aiming for high-ultra gaming at 1080p.
I plan to upgrade my budget monitor in August so it can handle 1440p if possible.
The most expensive options listed is $1183 Aud; if it still runs smoothly, better to keep it lower.
Motherboard:
Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 3
CPU: Intel Core i5 6600K Quad Core 3.5GHz Unlocked
GPU: Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 Windforce OC 4GB or G1 Gaming 4GB
RAM: Corsair 16GB (2 x 8GB) CMK16GX4M2B3000C15 DDR4 3000MHz VengeanceLPX
or G.Skill 16G (2x8G) F4-3200C16D-16GVKB PC4-25600 / DDR4 3200Mhz
Other RAM options I considered today:
Corsair 16GB (2x8GB) CMK16GX4M2A2400C14 DDR4 2400MHz Vengeance LPX
Corsair 16GB (2x8GB) CMK16GX4M2A2133C13R DDR4 2133MHz Vengeance LPX
I’m leaning toward the 970 and i5 6670K, but I’m unsure about RAM quantity and whether it’s too much.
For cooling, I’m not sure if the H60 will handle the i5 6670K well—should I opt for a model with a larger radiator?
I’m based in Australia and will be ordering online from Umart, just a 45-minute drive to the store after placing the order.
https://www.umart.com.au/umart1/pro/index.phtml?bid=5
You already have an overclockable CPU and enough memory. No need for further upgrades. Check out this comparison of 5 i7 models in modern games: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhuC8Tf9i3I.
Upgrading to 4-4.5GHz doesn’t really help right now. The best improvements are adding more RAM (16GB) and getting a GTX 1070 or 1080 graphics card. You might also notice better performance with a monitor.
For the highest settings at 1440p with a 120-140hz screen, a GTX 1080 is ideal and fits your budget now.
Also, overclocking the RAM to 2100 is simple and can offer some gains.
You already have an overclockable CPU and enough memory. Here is the link to a comparison of 5 i7 models in modern gaming: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhuC8Tf9i3I. Currently, boosting them further won't offer much practical gain. The only upgrades you should consider are adding more RAM (16GB) and using a GTX 1070 or 1080 graphics card. You might also notice some improvement with a monitor. For gaming at the highest settings with a 120-140Hz display, a GTX 1080 would be ideal and fits your budget right now. Also, overclocking the RAM to 2100 is straightforward and can still bring some advantages.
You have an overclockable CPU and MB. You don’t need to upgrade them. Here’s the link to the comparison of 5 gens on i7 in modern gaming. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhuC8Tf9i3I Just overclocking to 4-4.5GHz doesn’t really help with upgrades right now. The only improvements you can make are adding more RAM (16GB) and getting a GTX 1070 or 1080. You might also notice a difference with your monitor. For gaming at 1440p with a 120-140hz screen, a GTX 1080 would be ideal—it fits your budget now. 😉 Also, overclocking the RAM to 2100 is simple and can offer some benefits. Thanks for the tips! If you need a good guide on overclocking your CPU and MB, let me know—I’ll check it out tomorrow.
there are several approaches to achieve this. A straightforward method involves using an AI utility from ASUS, which can reach around 4.0GHz. Manual overclocking is more complex and requires careful handling of certain parameters. Only proceed if you notice your game performance is becoming limited by the CPU. There are numerous guides available for your motherboard and CPU. Treat it as a self-learning project, similar to studying voltages and related concepts. Generally, adjust the multiplier via AI utility or BIOS, and eventually consider raising core voltage when necessary. Monitor temperatures closely during these adjustments.
I just found this video (recommended on YouTube) that helps with understanding overclocking:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4RKTFTzLqY
I just finished the first link you shared and I wouldn’t have imagined my 3770k could still perform well like that. Thanks again for the advice before making the purchase.
Nonsense:
You're welcome.
Just a caution—don't rely on everything shared on forums. Make sure the information is backed by facts or you can verify them. Not just an opinion.
Hi again, just wanted to follow up with an update and ask another question. I overclocked the 3770k to a stable 4.6ghz and increased the RAM to 2133mhz. I’m planning to purchase a Gigabyte GTX 1070 Xtreme Gaming if it’s in stock; otherwise, I’ll opt for the G1 Gaming.
Could I avoid buying a new 16GB of RAM altogether? Instead, could I just upgrade from my current 8GB RAM?
G SKill
8G (2x4G) DDR3 2133Mhz PC3-17000 (F3-17000CL11D-8GBXL)
From what I understand, it should work fine and save some money. Still unsure if it’s better to buy a fresh set since I’ve had these since 2012.
Various memory modules might or might not function together. There is a detailed technical explanation behind this. Generally, they tend to work well out of the box. In certain situations, you may need to access the BIOS and set up a profile that suits all devices, allowing them to operate together. In other instances, they might not cooperate at all. Therefore, I would recommend using a 2x8 kit and aiming for 24GB, though it could end up being around 16GB in the worst scenario.