Question(Budget) PC Overhaul
Question(Budget) PC Overhaul
I own a very old PC, and any upgrade will need to replace several parts.
Here’s my current configuration:
https://pcpartpicker.com/user/Wedod/saved/#view=ZBpJxr
I believe I can reuse the power supply, case, storage, and possibly memory.
I’d like to keep the entire build under $800, though going for a cheaper option is better.
I plan to start this in March or April 2024, but I’m not against using older components.
Thanks!
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 7600X 4.7 GHz 6-Core Processor (($239.99 @ Amazon))
CPU Cooler: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB 48.8 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler (($109.99 @ Amazon))
Motherboard: Gigabyte A620M GAMING X Micro ATX AM5 Board (($99.99 @ Newegg))
Memory: Corsair Vengeance 16 GB (2 x 8 GB) DDR5-5200 CL40 RAM (($69.99 @ Newegg))
Storage: Samsung 840 Evo 120 GB 2.5" SSD (($89.00 @ Amazon))
Storage: Seagate BarraCuda 2 TB 3.5" 7200 RPM HDD (($89.00 @ Amazon))
Video Card: MSI GAMING X GeForce RTX 3050 8GB Video Card (($229.99 @ B&H))
Case: BitFenix Phenom M Nvidia Edition MicroATX Mini Tower (Powered by)
Power Supply: Corsair CX850M 850 W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-modular ATX PSU
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Home OEM - DVD 64-bit
Total: $838.95
Shipping, taxes, and any available discounts are included
Generated by PCPartPicker
2023-08-15 11:56 EDT-0400
This configuration should suffice for current gaming needs and remain suitable for several years.
The 7600X is a solid 6-core/12-thread CPU that performs reliably across various titles.
I opted for an AIO here because I’m uncertain about the efficiency of an air cooler in such a compact setup. Placing it at the top works well.
Two 8GB slots will be ideal if your main focus is gaming, and the motherboard offers additional DIMM spaces for future RAM upgrades.
It’s a classic Micro-ATX design with one PCI-e x16 slot for your GPU and some expansion options.
The four DIMM slots are particularly advantageous for upcoming upgrades.
I recommend sticking to your current storage setup, as you mentioned, and keeping the case intact.
The RTX 3050 can handle most games at full resolution with maximum settings, though you may need to lower them later.
A potential RTX 3060 12GB is feasible, but it would require sacrificing the CPU or possibly the AIO in this build.
I’ll maintain the PSU as it’s reliable, and the RTX 3050 doesn’t demand much power.
Who knows what new models might arrive—whether a GPU or CPU—so prices could drop, allowing for even better components.
This is just a suggestion.
PCPartPicker List of Components
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 @ Newegg)
Memory:
*
Silicon Power GAMING 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3200 CL16 Memory
($48.97 @ Amazon)
Storage:
*
TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 1 TB 2.5" Solid State Drive
($33.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card:
*
ASRock Challenger D Radeon RX 6600 8 GB Video Card
($199.99 @ Newegg)
Case:
*
Fractal Design Pop Air ATX Mid Tower Case
($79.99 @ B&H)
Power Supply:
*
Corsair RM750e (2023) 750 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
($99.99 @ Newegg)
Overall Cost: $761.78
Costs encompass shipping, taxes, and applicable discounts
*Selected lowest-priced items based on criteria*
Created by PCPartPicker
2023-08-15 12:31 EDT-0400
It's early to decide right now.
New items keep coming out at improved quality and value.
DDR3 is no longer available, DDR4 is coming soon to replace it, and DDR5 is the next step.
Your graphics card is solid, but you probably want even better performance.
Your I7 2600K was excellent when it was released.
However, it’s only half as fast as a $100 I3-12100.
I3/i5/i7/i9 no longer have the same impact they once did.
Now many cores and hyperthreading are standard.
Your power supply is decent, but with age it should be upgraded.
Your SSD is too small for a C drive; the HDD is fine for external backup.
I like your case, but high-performance components need better cooling and airflow.
You should be able to get satisfactory results with an $800 budget.
A graphics card surpassing the GTX1060 will quickly consume your budget.
by Q1 24, you'll have the intel 14th gen components and possibly an RTX4000 update. RAM and SSD costs continue to fall. Make sure to inquire then and save wisely as much as you can...