Starting a new setup, but I'm looking for assistance...
Starting a new setup, but I'm looking for assistance...
Hi everyone, just a short while ago I began assembling my new gaming setup and so far everything is working well. However, I'm facing some challenges when it comes to selecting the appropriate RAM and CPU. I understand it might seem unusual to focus on RAM, but since my build is nearly complete, I want to double-check everything before placing an order.
Currently, my configuration looks like this:
Yes, apart from RAM, I'm torn between choosing the i5-12400F or the i5-12600KF for this specific build. Is the 12600KF really a better option compared to the 12400F paired with the RTX 3060 Ti, especially if I'm using a B660 motherboard? The 12400F is priced between 120 and 130 EUR, whereas the 12600KF is around 190 EUR in my country. I didn't choose any 13th generation CPU because prices exceed 200 EUR locally, which is the maximum I can afford at the moment.
No matter which CPU I select, finding the right RAM kit remains a challenge.
If I go with the 12400F, my top pick would be 32GB (four 8GB modules).
G.Skills Ripjaws V 3200MHz CL14 B-die
Talking about B-die, does it really make sense for an Intel system? Or is it just a strategy for AMD performance?
On the other hand, if I opt for the 12600KF, I'd also consider Ripjaws but again 32GB (four 8GB) at 3600MHz with close timings—possibly not a B-die exactly, but something similar depending on availability.
I've seen some comparison videos suggesting that filling all DIMM slots can give a slight performance boost compared to only using two or four slots. Is this true or just a myth?
Also, I should mention upfront that most of the components are already ordered except for RAM and CPU. The rest of the PC parts are waiting at home to be assembled once they arrive.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
AMD performs better with tighter timings where as Intel performs better with speed but being as DDR4 is becoming obsolete i would say 3600 cl 16 4x8gb is decent enough your not going to find 4000mhz ddr4 ram easy now ..
Ive always used Gkill rgb neo or corsair and both have worked fine ..
I also dont think we a talking huge gains anyway between 3600 and 4000
As per Intel's official information, the RAM for i5-12400F should not exceed 3200MHz. If you decide to use an i5-12400F, would you consider CL14 modules at 3200MHz? Or if you pick 12600KF, could you expect 3600MHz modules to be more appropriate, given that the IMC of 12600KF won't restrict RAM speeds above 3200MHz, unlike the 12400F?
I will take this setup as a PC intended for gaming.
Every memory test highlights memory as the main limitation. Not the CPU, not the GPU.
This often becomes a frequent error. Many users overpay for memory when they don’t need it much. They could invest that money in a more efficient power supply or other better accessories like a mouse, monitor, keyboard, headset, etc.
In general, the improvements won’t match what you’d get with a different setup—typically, the top processor and best graphics card are what matter most.
For your model, the 3060TI will be the limiting factor in about 99% of games. Only titles like CSGO or Valorant, and some lighter games, won’t be affected.
Once the GPU becomes the bottleneck and uses its full capacity, faster CPU or memory won’t make a difference. You’ll likely see no additional frames per second.
Don’t get overly excited by the memory test results. Those numbers won’t reflect your actual performance. Not even close.
That said, you should be okay with 3200Mhz CL16 RAM. However, given current prices, you can easily upgrade to a 3600Mhz CL14 without spending much extra.
That’s my recommendation. But I wouldn’t go beyond that.
You can still run smoothly at 12400F; just need to adjust the BIOS settings. My system is currently at 3600Mhz while I use an 11400F.
Yes, the 12600k is worth it. The E cores can handle background/windows tasks while the P cores focus on gaming, plus higher clocks. Regular DDR4 3200 CL16 is plenty for an Intel CPU. No need for that low latency stuff. That is better suited for Ryzen CPU's.
And regarding P and E cores, are there any variations in how these types of cores perform between Windows 10 and Windows 11? Many articles suggest that Windows 10 may not handle E cores as effectively, which could affect performance in specific games or applications. For someone like you who is considering a 12600KF, I personally prefer Windows 10 unless gaming performance is a priority, in which case Windows 11 might be the better choice.
Avoid going cheap and opt for a processor with an F suffix.
The $25 or so you save is negligible in the overall project.
If you encounter any GPU problems, it can be a lifesaver and integrated graphics simplify testing.
Comparing the 12400 and 12600K, the key distinction lies in single-thread performance, which is what most games prioritize.
The 12400 boasts a single-thread passmark rating of 3531—fairly solid.
The 12600K scores higher at 3975.
Any processor in this price bracket should offer ample processing threads.
There might be some useful compromises, such as the 12500 with a 3714 rating.
Non-K processors usually come with a stock cooler that should suffice.
If needed later, you can always upgrade to another cooler.
Intel performance isn’t heavily affected by RAM speeds.
Consider purchasing a 2 x 16GB kit if you need 32GB.
The g.skil link mentioned above lists a 2 x 8GB kit; don’t buy two unless you’re certain the RAM will match.
Stick kits with four sticks will cost more due to matching requirements.
Also, motherboards might struggle to run four sticks at the same speed as two.