Optimize your setup with this configuration: i5-13600K paired with 4RTX 4070 graphics.
Optimize your setup with this configuration: i5-13600K paired with 4RTX 4070 graphics.
Hi. Here are some thoughts on making the system more affordable.
My initial plan included:
- Intel Core i5-13600kf
- Z960 motherboard (like MSI Tomahawk)
- MSI RTX 4070 Ventus 3X
- Kingston Fury 2x16GB DDR5 5600
- 750W MSI power supply
- Lian Li 216X case
The goal is gaming with a future 1440p monitor. I’m not sure about overclocking and haven’t been serious about it.
So...
- Should I invest in a Z chipset motherboard for this CPU, or should I save and opt for a solid B760?
- Will switching to a DDR4-based board and memory cause significant losses?
- Is it better to choose a lighter processor like 12600 or 13400 instead of the newer models?
You may consider sharing a PCPartPicker list to assist in reducing costs further. Currently, it's unclear what resources you have, your location, or how much you can save based solely on the specifications provided in your thread.
It's worth noting that investing a significant amount in your build is wise—avoid cutting corners with uncertain components.
If you decide against using the Z series chipset, it makes little sense to stick with a K suffix processor.
DDR4 will provide similar performance levels. You can find Z690 boards equipped with USB Bios flashback. The Asrock Extreme Z690 is a notable example. Consider exploring more affordable case options as well. The choice between 13400 and B760 boards depends on your needs. You may opt for the 13600kf for better clock speeds while still using the B760 board if it's more budget-friendly. However, considering current manufacturing costs, Z690 and B760 boards are priced similarly. Ensure the devices have robust VRMs, ideally with at least 12 phases.
I've been promoting the 12700KF for quite some time. It seems to be the most competitive offer available. I managed to secure one for $200 during Cyber Monday.
8P cores up to 5GHz, compared to the 6P cores in all the i5 models.
PCPartPicker Part List
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
Intel Core i7-12700KF 3.6 GHz 12-Core Processor
($214.99 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler:
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE 66.17 CFM CPU Cooler
($33.90 @ Amazon)
Motherboard:
ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming 4 ATX LGA1700 Motherboard
($99.99 @ Newegg)
Memory:
G.Skill Ripjaws V 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-4000 CL18 Memory
($67.98 @ Amazon)
Total: $416.86
Shipping, taxes, and available discounts are included in the price
Generated by
PCPartPicker
2023-12-20 10:30 EST-0500
This $99 AsRock motherboard is definitely worth considering. I often wonder if buying one would be a good backup option.
DDR4000 offers a reasonable price and delivers performance close to what you'd get with cheaper DDR5 options.
You don’t need to push overclocking limits, but achieving 5GHz across all cores is quite straightforward.
The only issue is these 9 phase 50A capacitors. That’s why I wouldn’t choose that Phantom Gaming board. There’s a real risk of throttling if the power usage exceeds 150w.
It's always possible to establish a power cap on an unlocked component. I believe the stock Cinebench 12700KF achieved around 170W under normal conditions, so higher outputs are unlikely.
In regards to gaming: DDR4 3200
>
DDR5 5600
The 120mm fan goes inside the back of that case for a rear exhaust fan.
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
*
Intel Core i5-12600KF 3.7 GHz 10-Core Processor
($155.00 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler:
*
Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE 66.17 CFM CPU Cooler
($35.90 @ Amazon)
Motherboard:
*
MSI PRO B760-P WIFI DDR4 ATX LGA1700 Motherboard
($159.99 @ B&H)
Memory:
*
Crucial Pro 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3200 CL22 Memory
($57.99 @ Amazon)
Storage:
*
Crucial P5 Plus 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 4.0 X4 NVME Solid State Drive
($104.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card:
*
XFX Speedster MERC 319 Black Radeon RX 7800 XT 16 GB Video Card
($519.99 @ Best Buy)
Case:
*
Fractal Design Focus 2 ATX Mid Tower Case
($69.99 @ B&H)
Power Supply:
*
MSI MAG A750GL PCIE5 750 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
($79.98 @ Amazon)
Case Fan:
*
ARCTIC P12 56.3 CFM 120 mm Fan
($8.99 @ Amazon)
Total:
$1192.82
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
*Lowest price parts chosen from parametric criteria
Generated by
PCPartPicker
2023-12-20 19:21 EST-0500
A better look at those components.
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/PRO-B760-P-WIFI-DDR4
https://www.intel.com/content/www/u...-2...tions.html
https://www.thermalright.com/product/pha...it-120-se/
https://www.crucial.com/memory/ddr4/cp2k16g4dfra32a
https://www.crucial.com/products/ssd/cru...5-plus-ssd
https://www.xfxforce.com/shop/xfx-speeds...ck-edition
https://www.msi.com/Power-Supply/MAG-A750GL-PCIE5
https://www.arctic.de/us/P12-PWM-PST/ACFAN00120A
https://www.fractal-design.com/products/...lear-tint/
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIG4vFQbDn4
I wouldn't need a KF model unless you have an older, functional graphics card nearby. Having an IGP for GPU issues, or keeping your system operational even when the GPU fails, makes the extra cost worthwhile for a standard K model.