New PC Build — Want Some Tips, Kinda 😅
New PC Build — Want Some Tips, Kinda 😅
Hello! For my work, I’m planning to switch my PC to Windows 11, which requires an upgrade of my CPU/MB combination because it doesn’t meet Microsoft’s requirements.
I’ve assembled PCs before, but I’m a bit less familiar with the process. Could you please review what I plan to do so I don’t overlook anything?
Current Configuration
CPU: Intel Core i7-4770
CPU Cooler: Scythe Mugen 5
MB: MSI B85-G41 PC Mate
RAM: 16 GB
GPU: Radeon RX 570
Power: 750 Watt (brand irrelevant)
Case: Attractive ATX case with updated Scythe fans
Two SSDs (512 GB)
Potential New Configuration
CPU: Ryzen 7 5700X
CPU Cooler: Scythe Mugen 5
MB: Gigabyte B550M
RAM: 32 GB XPG Spectra D35
GPU: Radeon RX 570
Power: 750 Watt (brand irrelevant)
Case: Attractive ATX case with updated Scythe fans
Windows 11 Installation
I wanted to erase the two SSDs, install everything, and then reinstall Windows 11 onto the same drives.
Is there anything I should be missing?
Thank you for your help!
GW
PCPartPicker Part List
Motherboard:
*
ASRock B550M Pro4 Micro ATX AM4 Motherboard
($79.98 @ Amazon)
Total:
$79.98
Costs cover shipping, taxes, and applicable discounts
*Selected lowest-priced components based on criteria
Created by
PCPartPicker
2024-12-04 02:03 EST-0500
https://www.asrock.com/mb/AMD/B550M Pro4/index.asp
CPU Cooler:
Scythe Mugen 5, good luck with the AM5 mounting kit—it's more than sufficient.
Apologies, should've been more clear. OS is installed on one drive, and another drive is just for extra storage.
Oh really? So I could just install these two SSDs onto the new motherboard? and install Win 11? Without wiping them?
(This is a new one for me - I've only ever done fresh builds)
No.
Connect a single drive—the one designated for receiving Windows.
Irrespective of its contents.
Generate a USB flash drive installer using Microsoft's Media Creation Tool. Ensure it is at least 8GB in capacity.
Launch the installer from that USB device.
You will see a display showing all partitions on the drive. Remove each one individually, deleting them completely.
Keep only the unallocated area, representing the full drive with no partitions.
Proceed to install Windows onto this empty space. The installation will create the required new partitions.
Once the installation finishes, proceed to connect additional drives.
It makes sense to consider upgrading the MB/CPU, ensuring Windows activates the key in Windows 10, and then proceeding with a fresh upgrade to Windows 11. Some sources suggest this approach can work occasionally. It might reduce the need to spend over $100 on a new Windows Key, especially if you already own one.
I'm not completely confident about this. I've been following discussions for years, and it seems Microsoft's approach to OEM licenses might be unclear or inconsistent. Some comments suggest people can reuse an OEM on new hardware as long as it's still "one license and one PC." Others have reported problems. This aligns with what I've read recently. It's not obvious how strictly Microsoft enforces license rules at any given time. If you already have a valid 10 and want 11 on new hardware, it might be better to install 11 immediately instead of upgrading from 10. If that doesn't work, consider other options—you might eventually need to purchase a new license.
Based on the source you provided, the situation varies by OEM and installation method. If the key isn't accepted during setup on a new MOBO, many retailers will offer another key if you mention it's no longer working. If not, PCMag can help you find affordable alternatives. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 after purchasing a Pro license also saves money. It doesn't matter whether you choose Pro or another edition.
That's a great resource! Thank you! I really appreciate all of the feedback
😀
If anyone else sees any potential issues, please let me know. Money is always tight these days, so don't want to make a big blunder
😆