Need CPU, motherboard, and RAM suggestions for your new PC.
Need CPU, motherboard, and RAM suggestions for your new PC.
I'm assembling a top-tier gaming PC. I've considered 14th and 13th generation processors—specifically the I5 14600KF, I7 14600KF, and I7 13600KF—along with Z790 or Z690 motherboards. Do I require a BIOS update for these options? I've noticed some shops offer BIOS flashback support, so I wouldn't need an older CPU if available. However, only one GIGABYTE Z790 model with Flashback BIOS was found among the 40 options. For my budget, this model fits well and offers good value. I'm also focusing on DDR4 RAM, as DDR5 isn't available for these boards and lacks flashback support. Regarding memory speed, DDR4 is sufficient for gaming performance. As for the CPU choice, a 13th or 14th generation is still beneficial despite the small performance gap. With a 10€ price difference between generations, it makes sense to opt for the newer model unless you're constrained by budget. I'm leaning toward the 13th generation since it's available locally and offers solid performance. For overclocking, Z790 boards support it, while Ryzen 7000 models are more expensive. I'm considering Intel i5 14600KF at around 320€, which provides 14 cores and 20 threads—still reasonable for gaming. The AMD Ryzen 7 7900X is another option but may be overkill given the price. A 4K monitor at 144Hz is manageable, and I'll be using an AMD GPU. Everything will be brand new.
Gaming you say?! If needing all 3 and wanting to save money. Here my opinion for options. 14th gen will work on the same boards a previous 2 gens. As for bios update not sure if required for the 14th gen however it's very easy as relatively safe to do. I've done it 4 times now on my system. Thanks ASUS. DDR4 boards are available only on intel. DDR5 was rushed my intel but not necessary going DDR5 for a gaming build. Unless you want to. Sounds like you know what you want. If AMD to high and want intel both are good options as far as I'm aware. Hah AMD side though in case interested. 7800X3D price dropping always on it it seems. I got mine on launch day so it was high. Now I thinks around $300 or so. Worth it as it is king for gaming after 5800X3D. A good B650 or X670 board. Manufacturer your choice but beware of Asus support is top of worst customer service there is. I'd go Asrock, MSI or Gigabyte/Aorus. DDR5 ram corsair dominator's for AMD are cheap enough maybe the vengeance now too. I only paid $120 for my kit. Couldn't believe. Platform choice is yours. I re-built my system and changed AM4 to AM5. Too early I think but a sale guy talked me into upgrading to new platform as AM4 was at the end when I want there for the 5800X3D and a 4090. Ending up with new CPU, RAM, Motherboard and now with a 4080.
The 14th and 13th are nearly identical, so the 14th should work fine on a Z790. If you need to purchase your RAM, I recommend DDR5. For the processor, I’d choose DDR5 if you’re buying a RAM, as low-end options are comparable in performance and cost to high-end DDR4. I’d opt for AM5 if you were me. Keep in mind, the 14 Intel cores only provide six performance cores. AM5 is expected to be available for the next couple of years.