System enhancement release – 2020.
System enhancement release – 2020.
Greetings,
I’m considering a new build for my gaming PC, which I purchased in 2016, and would appreciate some guidance on selecting suitable components within a specific budget.
Here’s my current hardware configuration:
-Case: Zalman Z11 Neo
-Motherboard: ASUS B150M-K
-CPU: Intel Core i5 6500
-RAM: 16 GB (DDR4)
-HDD: 1 TB
-SSD: 120 GB
-GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960
-Power Supply: PSU COOLERMASTER ELITE SERIES 600W (RS-600-ACAB-M4)
Previously, I prioritized the power supply, RAM, case, and hard drive to allow for future upgrades centered around the CPU, GPU, and motherboard. My primary goal is to replace my current CPU with an 8th or 9th generation, 8-core processor – however, this necessitates a new motherboard since the B150M-K only supports 6th generation (Skylake) processors, not the newer CoffeeLake series. I’m also open to exploring AMD processors due to their competitive pricing and performance, although I haven't yet researched them extensively. I intend to upgrade my graphics card as well. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 appears promising in terms of price, and I am also considering graphics cards from AMD’s lineup. Finally, I want to increase my SSD capacity to 1 terabyte to facilitate future RAM upgrades.
My budget for this upgrade is between €600 and €700.
Thank you in advance.
Could you please specify your location in order for us to provide pricing tailored to your region?
Unfortunately, pcpartpicker lacks availability within Greece. I constructed a configuration based on the German site and this represents an initial selection of parts.
There are some challenges associated with purchasing components from overseas retailers. However, the costs are generally comparable to those found in Europe. I can assist you by directing you to prominent Greek websites for acquiring PC hardware at competitive prices: www.skroutz.gr and www.e-shop.gr. To view the sites in English, simply activate the "translate page" feature within your Chrome browser.
This particular configuration appears to be quite impressive, and I’ve been told that AMD systems deliver exceptional performance at a favorable price point, particularly when compared to Intel’s offerings. Will this motherboard be able to accommodate Intel's 8th and 9th generation processors if I were to later switch to Intel? I’ve encountered information suggesting that some motherboards are exclusively designed for Intel, while others are only compatible with AMD. Are there any motherboards that support both platforms?
Regarding the Ryzen 5 processor, should I purchase a separate cooler independently, or would the included cooling system be adequate if I decide to overclock? Furthermore, will this motherboard support newer Nvidia graphics cards in the future should I choose to add one? It seems likely that, eventually, I’ll need to acquire both an Intel-compatible motherboard and an AMD-compatible one to maximize my upgrade possibilities.
How long will this setup remain effective before requiring an update, and what would be a comparable system in Intel terms? It's probable that such a system would cost more but potentially offer slightly reduced performance.
The AMD Ryzen 5 is likely superior to the i7 9700K, possibly even exceeding it in performance, and the Radeon RX XT is more advanced than both the GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Ti. What's the next most expensive AMD graphics card that would be equivalent to a GTX 2060 – GTX 2080?
Based on my review of those two online platforms, I strongly suggest utilizing www.skrotz.gr as your preferred e-shop.gr option due to its more competitive pricing. Regarding your inquiries:
1.) An AMD processor cannot operate within an Intel motherboard, and vice versa. You'll need to determine whether you prefer AMD or Intel for your system architecture. For value and efficiency, AMD consistently delivers superior performance, with it also boasting exceptional capabilities.
2.) The 3600 model includes a built-in CPU cooler, which is adequate for standard operation. However, if you intend to push the system beyond its default settings, an external cooler – such as the Be Quiet Shadow Rock 3, Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M, or Cooler Master 212 EVO – is recommended. Furthermore, manually adjusting CPU clock speeds often yields minimal gains and can potentially degrade performance; instead, take advantage of the Ryzen’s Precision Boost Overdrive for automated overclocking.
3.) The performance characteristics of both the 3600 and 3600X are comparable to a stock-configured Intel i7-8700k. When dealing with tasks like rendering and video encoding, the 3600/X will usually be slightly slower than an i7-9700k.
4.) The AMD 5600XT will outperform the GTX 1660 Super and GTX 1660Ti in terms of graphics processing power. If your chosen model has a revised vBIOS, like the Sapphire Pulse variant, the 5600XT will closely match an RTX 2060’s performance. The RX5700 is approximately 10% faster than an RTX 2060, while the RX5700XT is roughly 10% faster than an RTX 2060 Super, representing a slight disadvantage compared to the RTX 2070 Super by about 5%.
To stay within my financial limitations, I’ve adjusted the initial concept slightly.
Processor:
Ryzen 5 3600
Motherboard:
MSI B450M Pro-VDH MAX
Solid State Drive:
Crucial P1 1TB
Graphics Card:
RX5700
Recommended CPU Cooler:
Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO
or
Be Quiet Shadow Rock 3 (the latter is preferable and justifies the additional €15)
The CoolerMaster power supply unit doesn't meet my expectations. While they produce excellent fans and enclosures, their PSUs are lacking in quality. It’s essential to invest in a reliable power supply unit to safeguard your valuable, recent hardware investments. Please refer to the initial link in my signature for a helpful resource outlining how to select a superior PSU. However, please be aware that product availability may differ depending on your location – for instance, it might not be as readily accessible in the United States or Germany.
Hey @Campbell9977, can you tell me what specific Cooler Master power supply unit (PSU) you're using?
I own a Power Supply unit, specifically the CoolerMaster Elite Series 600W (RS-600-ACAB-M4).