New PC - five years later
New PC - five years later
Hey everyone, I got a lot of useful advice five years ago when setting up this PC. Since then I've added more RAM, but I haven't made many other changes. It's running fine most of the time, though with Windows 7 no longer supported, I believe an upgrade is necessary to install Windows 11. Are there any other components I could replace or add that would help improve performance without costing much?
You possess exactly what is listed in the current inventory, aside from RAM.
What you mentioned matches what was shown in your initial post as closely as possible. Is that correct? That information isn’t going to function on Windows 11. Could you provide the details of the parts you currently own so we can assess your situation accurately? Please include the brand, model number for each major component—around eight or ten items would be ideal.
I believe there was a mix-up in the details provided. Let's clarify the list accurately.
How much is your budget allows?
The highest possible amount you can spend.
Where are you most likely to purchase components?
Amazon, New Egg, Best Buy, or another location?
I doubt spending over 500, but could replacing the motherboard and CPU be cheaper? Are these the only components needing attention for Windows 11? I can source parts from various places, typically through those websites.
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
*
Intel Core i5-12400F 2.5 GHz 6-Core Processor
($149.97 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler:
*
Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE 66.17 CFM CPU Cooler
($18.89 @ Amazon)
Motherboard:
*
MSI PRO B660M-A WIFI DDR4 Micro ATX LGA1700 Motherboard
($129.99 @ Amazon)
Memory:
*
Silicon Power GAMING 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3200 CL16 Memory
($48.97 @ Amazon)
Overall cost: $347.82
Includes shipping, taxes, and applicable discounts
*Selected lowest-priced items based on criteria*
Generated by PCPartPicker
2023-08-06 22:44 EDT-0400
You can start using Windows 11 for less than 500 dollars. The main changes you'd need to make would be replacing the CPU, motherboard, and cooler if the new CPU lacks one. Your existing RAM could possibly fit on a newer motherboard. Other components like the case, power supply, and video card might not need updating unless they're outdated. Your current case is micro ATX, so switching to a new micro ATX motherboard should work fine instead of a mini ITX unit.
OK thanks both! I plan to use the i5-12400F and MSI PRO B660M-A. It looks like my RAM should work well for it, and the CPU includes a cooler unless you believe a more expensive option would be better.
How can I assess power supply wear? It’s been five and a half years now, but I haven’t noticed any problems... Should I just swap it out to safeguard the rest of the system?