RYZEN 5 3500 model
RYZEN 5 3500 model
I’d aim for a 3600 if I could locate one or a 5600 when the price gap isn’t large, but my choices in B450 are limited. Likely I’d need to switch to a B550 and unless I find the cheapest option, it might be nearly as expensive as a B650. If I choose a GPU, I’d prefer something that leverages a motherboard supporting PCIe 4.0, so what’s best would matter. In short, it depends on whether the investment is justified or if switching to AM5 makes more sense.
Some GPUs handle PCI-E 4.0 x16 without needing extra power, so performance differences between 3.0 and 4.0 aren't huge. Certain cards are restricted to 4.0 x4 or 4.0 x8, which can slow things down on 3.0. The B450 offers similar performance to the B550 and is a more affordable option if available. If prices match, opting for the B550 makes sense. Finding Ryzen 3600 or 5600 models isn't uncommon since they're very popular globally. Which region are you in? Can you import from AliExpress?
I’m able to locate Ryzen 3600 and Ryzen 5600 models, yet the B450 boards I’m evaluating are roughly 20% less expensive than comparable B550 options. I believe no further savings will make a strong decision.