Looking to enhance your setup for improved performance in modern titles like Path of Exile 2, BF6, Arc Raiders, etc.?
Looking to enhance your setup for improved performance in modern titles like Path of Exile 2, BF6, Arc Raiders, etc.?
Hello,
I’m looking to enhance my current gaming setup for titles like PoE 2, BF6, Arc Raiders and upcoming releases. My existing hardware is still solid, but the motherboard, CPU, and RAM are quite outdated. The cost of DDR5 RAM is currently very high, making it hard to justify upgrading all three parts at once. I’m aiming for a balanced, budget-friendly configuration that can keep up with modern games for the next few years.
I’ve considered these upgrade options:
1) Replace the motherboard and CPU while keeping the RAM unchanged.
2) Upgrade the motherboard, install an OC CPU, and enable full RAM speeds (which my current board doesn’t support).
Please share your thoughts on these ideas, or suggest other viable paths. If you think there are better alternatives available, let me know. I’m also open to receiving component recommendations for the most practical solutions.
Current specs:
• CPU: Intel® Core™ i7-9700K @ 3.60GHz, 3601 MHz, 8 cores
• Cooling: Noctua NH-D15 - silent and efficient
• RAM: 32 GB Kingston FURY Beast DDR4 3600MHz
• GPU: RX 7800 XT 16GB with triple coolers
• Motherboard: TUF B360-PRO GAMING (Wi-Fi)
• Storage: 500 GB SSD, 1 TB SSD, 1 TB HDD
• PSU: MSI MAG A850GL 850W 80 Plus Gold
• Case: Corsair Crystal 570X RGB White - Miditower style
• OS: Windows 10
Given the current ram prices, I’d opt for a 12700k and a DDR4 capable board. It should provide a significant boost compared to your 9700k when tackling CPU-heavy games. I’m cautious about suggesting 13th or 14th gen models, since I’m not fully sure Intel resolved the stability problems with those chips. Intel has extended the warranty for them, so they’re still viable choices—just ensure your BIOS is up to date.
Thank you for the feedback. I reviewed the suggestions and noticed similar ideas about AMD CPUs and AM4-compatible boards. What do you think about these options? Would you prefer to go with Intel instead?
It depends on the resolution you're using. In many situations, running 1440 or 4k doesn't restrict you from the CPU. If you can still obtain a 5800x3d for a reasonable price, that would be a valid AMD choice. Unfortunately, the resellers have driven up the cost of that chip to an extreme and it seems unlikely to ever change. The newer x3d models all utilize DDR5 memory if I recall correctly. I believe if you stick with DDR4 and maintain your RAM, it's better to opt for Intel. Just make sure to test it to confirm if the CPU is actually the bottleneck right now.
The 7600X3D is available if you have a nearby Micro Center. It offers performance close to the 5800X3d and includes some bundles that might reduce costs. The Asus TUF B650 paired with the 7600X3D for $299 presents a solid offer. Using an AM5 platform and a 600 series motherboard would allow compatibility with a Zen6 CPU after a BIOS update.
If you're having trouble with your DDR4 setup, consider switching to Intel. It provides sufficient upgrade potential through the 14900k and lets you use the CPU when DDR5 becomes more affordable. Prices for DDR5 are expected to fall soon after DDR6 is released. AM4 processors won't fit in AM5 slots, which need DDR5 support. Also, look for the most affordable XX700 class or higher available. At the moment, I don't worry too much about the 13/14 chipsets unless you're particularly concerned about BIOS updates.
What is your budget?
Option 2 offers only a modest increase. Around 10% would be reasonable.
3600 ram would be useful, but it’s not enough to make you very happy.
If you’re using Intel, stay with Intel. The transition to AMD involves a learning curve, especially regarding compatibility.
For AMD users, ensure your RAM is compatible with Ryzen, considering both the motherboard and CPU combination.
If you choose AMD, verify DDR4 compatibility thoroughly.
I’m fine with 13th or 14th generation Intel chips, but with two conditions:
1. Update your motherboard BIOS to resolve voltage problems.
2. Purchase a new processor from an authorized seller only. Used units might have been damaged before, and buying new gives you a 5-year warranty.
Your cooling system is excellent, and if you lack the LGA1700 mounting kit, Noctua will provide one free of charge.
Given the negative coverage and concerns, some stores are offering 14900K models at discounted prices.
$442 on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/i9-14900K-De...tronics&sprefix=14900k,electronics,127&sr=1-1
Avoid cutting corners with a processor that has a F suffix—integrated graphics are better if you ever run into GPU issues.
442 dollars for a 14900k isn't a great offer, especially with the 7800X3D and 9800X3D available. AMD's strict RAM requirements were a bit more forgiving, but now they're tighter. These are my current thoughts, depending on how much you're willing to sacrifice your existing PC for a new one:
- An Intel setup with a 13/14700k (avoid used), paired with a fresh Z790 motherboard, can be swapped into your current build—just confirm you contact Noctua for the right CPU cooler mounting.
- An AMD build featuring a 7/9800X3D, new RAM, and a new motherboard, all compatible with your existing configuration. You'll still need to get the AM5 bracket from Noctua for the CPU cooler.
- A completely new Intel or AMD system using these CPU choices, leaning more toward AMD for better performance.
I transitioned from a 6700k to a 3700x and then to a 5800x without encountering any significant learning curve. The main challenge was adjusting to an odd numbered CL. I once had a DDR4 3733 CL17 setup, which was mainly due to my desire for the optimal 1:1 memory ratio as shown in AMD's Zen 2 slides. A 3200 or 3600 configuration wouldn’t have caused this problem. The Kingtson Fury Beast should also work well with AMD.
I don’t suggest using AM4 anymore, since it’s no longer feasible to find affordable 5700x3d or 5800x3d options. If they had offered something like a 2700x or 3700x, I’d have considered upgrading to a 5800xt or a 59xx chip for better multitasking performance.
In my current setup, a 12700k with a DDR4 capable board is the most secure choice. A 14700k remains a good alternative if you’re willing to take the risk.