PC Upgrade Advice
PC Upgrade Advice
Hey there, I'm Pedro. I'm trying to upgrade my PC but have some questions about what to choose. My current setup isn't too bad, but I want to move up from 1080p to 1440p resolution. I'm aiming for around 144hz performance.
For games like Red Dead 2 and the upcoming Cyberpunk, I need something that can handle Ultra settings without issues. I also often get stuck with CPU bottlenecks, so I want a reliable system that lasts me for years and is solid for gaming. But I don’t mind flashy lights or RGB—what I really care about is value for money and performance.
Right now I have:
- GPU: MSI Radeon RX Vega 56 8GB OC Edition
- CPU: Intel® Core™ i7-5820K @ 3.30GHz, 3301 MHz, 6 cores, 12 threads - WATER COOLED BY ALIENWARE
- RAM: 16GB Corsair Vengeance @2400mhz
- Motherboard: Alienware A14 (Area 51 style)
- PSU: fX Pro 700W, 80+ Bronze
- Storage: 250GB Crucial SSD, 1TB SSHD Firecuda
Ideally, I’d like to upgrade the motherboard, CPU, and GPU. I’m thinking about getting an RTX3070 (or a cheaper AMD equivalent) and would need a board that supports it without bottlenecking either component. I want something powerful enough for Arma 3 and other demanding games at smooth framerates. I’m open to Intel or AMD based on price, not brand preference.
Also, could someone advise me on how to upgrade an Alienware PC? I’m unsure if the stock cooler will work with the new CPU. Any tips would be great!
I’m a bit new to this, so if you have any suggestions on what to look for in a motherboard or need help understanding specs, that would really help me make a decision. Thanks a lot!
I would improve everything, but I’d retain the Vega 56 with 8gb for now because it still supports playing RDR2 at high/ultra in 1440p. The main reason for upgrading is to move away from that OEM computer as much as possible. OEM motherboards usually have tough upgrade issues since they’re designed specifically for those CPUs. I’ve seen prebuilt models from Lenovo, Dell, HP, and more, but when a customer tried to upgrade the CPU, it failed. The RAM in those systems is also very slow—I don’t know about the PSU, but it seems questionable. As for storage, it’s fine and you can keep that. Here’s what I recommend you consider...
I would make the upgrade but keep the Vega 56 8GB for now because it still supports playing RDR2 at high/ultra settings in 1440p. The main goal is to move away from the OEM computer as much as possible. OEM motherboards usually have tough upgrade issues since they are designed specifically for that CPU. I've experienced prebuilt systems from Lenovo, Dell, HP, and others, but upgrading the CPU didn't work. The RAM in those systems is also quite slow, though I'm not sure about the PSU condition—it seems questionable. For storage, it's fine and you can retain it.
Here’s what I recommend:
https://pcpartpicker.com/list/tybLy4
The total cost comes around 700$, and it’s currently available. It performs well for its price, especially because you can overclock the processor. Since it’s a K model Intel CPU, I used a Z motherboard, which works perfectly. I didn’t choose Ryzen because the 10600K is too powerful for its current price range, though the new Ryzen 5600X is better but less common and more expensive. The RAM is 2x8GB at 3600MHz—ideal for gaming. No need for a new GPU since you already have the Vega 56 8GB, which is affordable, has no RGB, and fits well with a good airflow case and a new PSU.
If you can’t build it yourself, just visit your local PC shop and ask if they can assemble it for you.
One thing to note: the P300A has only one fan, but you can always add more fans as needed.
Let's discuss the motherboard first.
My personal definition of a solid motherboard includes:
8 pin CPU power connector
4 DIMM slots at least
Strong VRMs (important for overclocking)
ATX size – I prefer larger boards unless you have a specific case and build in mind
Many fan headers
Abundant RGB options (unless it bothers you)
I wouldn’t suggest keeping the PSU, as it seems of questionable quality. A Corsair RM650 would be a better choice based on my experience, though I don’t know much about the cooler. I can definitely recommend coolers if you’re interested.
You can keep your RAM to save money; it does affect performance, but this is unlikely to be a top priority for your build.
For the CPU, I’m thinking Ryzen 5000 series. The 5600X offers good value.
In terms of selection, looking at a random B450 listing suggests the Strix B550 F or Aorus B550 Pro would fit your budget well – they’re reliable boards, and I own an Aorus model.
The GPU recommendation is the 3070.
Hey there, thanks for your message! Here are your questions rephrased:
1. Should I change the case? I really like the Alienware one—it’s large and stylish.
2. You suggested the i5, but I’m not sure about CPUs. There are i9s available at similar prices, aren’t they better? As someone new, I tend to think bigger numbers mean better performance, even if it feels silly sometimes. For clarity, the prebuilt Alienware is already upgraded; only the motherboard is original. Everything else has been modified and works fine. I’m currently playing Red Dead 2 at around 60fps on high settings, but I want to try Kingdom Come Deliverance on high or ultra. Right now, I’m at about 30fps on high, which is disappointing for the Vega chipset. I’m considering upgrading with a CPU and a new motherboard, possibly because the CPU might be limiting performance. Should I go with an i5 for future upgrades, or should I save a bit more money and wait for Ryzen? Thanks again!
Ps: How crucial is it to have a good motherboard? Beyond connecting components, what other functions does it serve?
Do I have to swap the case? No, but it probably doesn’t have as much airflow as the P300A. If you’re okay with it, just keep an eye on the temperatures.
You suggested the i5, I’m not very familiar with CPU functions, but there are i9 options at a similar price. Are they actually superior to the i5?
Is an i9 really that affordable? If it’s under $300, you should definitely consider swapping the motherboard here: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/Gq2rGq