Need tips on improving my computer performance?
Need tips on improving my computer performance?
Hello everyone,
My system/gaming PC is nearly seven years old and it’s starting to show signs of wear.
I’m considering an upgrade but my budget is between 300€ and 500€.
Right now, purchasing a brand-new PC isn’t feasible for me.
My understanding of PC components is limited and outdated, so I’m hoping you can offer guidance on how to improve my setup without breaking the bank.
Below are the specifications I’ve noted:
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 2600 / 12 threads / max 3.9GHz
CPU cooler: Cooler Be quiet! Pure Rock 2 150W TDP
GPU: GTX 1060 (6GB) Nvidia-GeForce
RAM: Crucial Ballistix Sport DDR4 2400MHZ 16GB
Memory slots: ASUS Strix B350-F Gaming
Case: NZXT Source 340 Elite - Black
SSD: Samsung 860 EVO 250 GB
HDD: Seagate Barracuda 2 TB
PCU: 650W Corsair VS650
Operating system: Windows 10
I’m eager to hear your thoughts and advice.
Let me know if I missed anything important!
Thanks in advance,
Roy
CPU, PSU, GPU, and new memory can restore your relevance. However, your budget limits these options. PSU and GPU offer the best value. Your motherboard supports the newest AM4 processors. What country?
A modest overspend yet worth considering:
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D 3 GHz 8-Core Processor
(€234.89 @ Proshop)
Memory:
G.Skill Ripjaws V 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3600 CL18 Memory
(€70.63 @ Amazon Deutschland)
Video Card:
PowerColor Fighter Radeon RX 6600 8 GB Video Card
(€207.75 @ Proshop)
Power Supply:
MSI MAG A650GL 650 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
(€88.70 @ Amazon Deutschland)
Overall cost:
€601.97
Includes shipping, taxes, and applicable discounts
Created by
PCPartPicker
2024-07-15 20:45 CEST+0200
Thank you for your reply! The country is The Netherlands.
I think it might be better to wait about half a year before upgrading the budget to 600-700€, as building a new PC from scratch could be more efficient. I’m not sure yet, but I’d like to hear your thoughts on this.
Also, this could be a simple question—what makes it important to upgrade the PSU? Is it mainly about age or reliability?
PCPartPicker List of Components
CPU:
*
AMD Ryzen 5 5600 3.5 GHz 6-Core Processor
(€124.00 from Amazon Netherlands)
Memory:
*
G.Skill Ripjaws V 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3200 CL16 Memory
(€62.00 from Amazon Netherlands)
Video Card:
*
Gigabyte WINDFORCE OC GeForce RTX 4060 8 GB Video Card
(€299.00 from Amazon Netherlands)
Overall Total:
€485.00
Costs cover shipping, taxes, and applicable discounts
*Selected lowest-priced items based on criteria
Created by
PCPartPicker
2024-07-15 21:34 CEST+0200
I believe @Why_Me has the upper hand here. A 5600 will significantly surpass your 2xxx Ryzen setup. I assume your current motherboard is ready for a BIOS update, which I haven’t verified. Regarding memory speeds, it’s unclear if your board supports the higher rates mentioned. That’s one point, but for a lasting upgrade until the next build, I’d also recommend aiming for 32GB. When it comes to graphics, it might be challenging unless you upgrade your card and check if your PSU can handle the demands. I’d suggest a used or new 5xxx CPU, a more powerful graphics card, and a reliable power supply. Your existing RAM should still be sufficient for future upgrades.
Your budget isn't sufficient for major upgrades, but your older components remain useful for 1080p gaming. You could repurpose them and enhance certain parts:
PCPartPicker Part List
GPU:
I suggest an 8 GB card such as the RX 6600 referenced before. It can also be transferred to another system if you decide to upgrade later.
HDD:
It seems you likely use the Barracuda for gaming, given its 250GB capacity. Consider replacing the Seagate with a 1 or 2 TB SSD while retaining your HDD for storage.
RAM:
If you wish to spend, adding another 16 GB of RAM or the highest supported speed could boost performance, though this is optional.
PSU:
Upgrading to a newer power supply might be beneficial, as older ones can cause reliability problems and possibly damage your system. A fresh PSU can also be used elsewhere.
CPU:
For an upgrade, the Ryzen 5 5600 is a solid option if you stick with the same motherboard.
That's my advice if you're planning an upgrade now. If you'd rather wait for more funds, that's perfectly acceptable too. Just let us know and we'll assist you.
Yeah, I'm a bit cautious about relying on a VS650 after five years. Seven years is fine since it performed well then. To be honest, the GTX1060 was a relatively easy load for it, but today's cards usually have stronger transient spikes that could drain their remaining lifespan quickly.
At that price, an RTX 4060 or RX 6650XT would be a solid option. I also prefer the RTX 3060 with 12GB if you have a high-resolution display. Alternatively, the 6750XT gives you 12GB of VRAM. The regular 5700X is still worth thinking about because it's affordable and offers eight cores.
Upgrading the memory speed is essential, even if you can't push it to full speeds like 3200 or 2933. On Ryzen systems, memory speed determines the interface speed between the I/O die and the CPU die on the package. The ideal range is between 3200 and 3600.
Thanks to everyone for your suggestions and guidance. From what you shared, it seems it would be wiser to wait a bit longer before spending the roughly 700 euros. You might consider splitting the upgrades into two phases. Below, I have compiled the estimated expenses for the suggested improvements. For the overall budget, choosing both CPU and GPU together would amount to around 708.93 euros.
Also, I have a few questions. Why does the price gap between the Ryzen 7 5700X and Ryzen 5700X3D come to nearly 80 euros? Is there a substantial performance gap? Secondly, how much distinction does the RAM between company A and company B make, or is it mainly cosmetic? Lastly, do you think any of these PC parts will drop in price, or will the costs stay steady over the next few months? (I plan to start the upgrades now and possibly wait up to four months.)
The 5700X3D offers better gaming performance for longer. If you intend to invest more and upgrade again next year, consider the 5600. The 6650XT is a better choice; the non-XT 6600 falls short in providing strong frame rates for modern AAA titles. Opt for 3600mhz RAM for Ryzen processors, as they perform better with higher speeds. Your motherboard supports an M.2 PCIe 3.0 slot—choose the 970 EVO card. A 2TB drive is recommended. If you plan to stick with the RX 6600 or RX6650XT in the long run, the RM650 will suffice. For future upgrades, an 850W power supply is advisable.