The simplest upgrade would be a basic CPU replacement with a single-core, low-power processor.
The simplest upgrade would be a basic CPU replacement with a single-core, low-power processor.
My reflections and recent updates... I updated an H61 LGA1155 with an i7-2600 recently. An i7-3770 seemed better, but the original Lenovo board and chipset left me uncertain; only the 2600 was a clear choice. Paired with a $21 SATA M.2 / adapter bundle, the extra cores and threads added up to roughly $30, though the main goal—basic media recording or playback—remained slow and unstable with just 4GB of DDR3-1333. Upgrading RAM could cost between $30 and $330, making it hard to justify over $100. On the other hand, a temporary replacement for my 5900X (3600X, ASRock B450, DDR4-3600, totaling $325) performed exceptionally well with the 2600, the 1TB M.2 drive, 4TB HDD, 3060ti processor, and RM850x power supply from my previous build. That setup cost ten times more, but after reassembling everything, another GPU, PSU, and storage came together for $800. For a 1650, it’s perfectly fine to opt for a 1400, 1500X, or 1600 Ryzen—especially if you’re looking for solid performance. And I’m confident such a motherboard, CPU, and RAM combo can be found cheaply on eBay or CL, though the main concern is whether it still works or if the previous owner damaged it. A decent 2018-2019 processor like the 3600 or 1700 would be ideal. But 1700/1700X are often praised for impressive overclocking potential and are worth $800. For a 5000-series build, others may have different views, but more AM4 units (likely 3D) are expected, and AMD insists AM4 won’t change. That said, my 5900X still runs smoothly with an 8GB OC RTX3060ti, PCie3 storage, DDR4-3200, and barely uses 5% CPU even with 8GB RAM. I haven’t seen much need for AM5 just yet. So while a 7000-series might be worth considering for future savings, today’s options remain solid if you can afford them. But running a 95W or 105W chip on anything under a B550 isn’t practical, so it really depends on your budget and priorities. $315 gives you a brand-new 5500, MSI B450, 16GB Patriot Viper DDR4-3000, stock AMD Wraith cooler, and 250GB SN570 PCIe3 M.2—something that can easily outshine any $100-$150 eBay find. From this angle, the eBay package seems less appealing. Check it out: https://pcpartpicker.com/user/An0maly1976/saved/fLgjnQ
Edited September 19, 2022 by An0maly_76
Revised, more info
5500 includes a stock cooler, while the 117$ model I demonstrated lacks one. The B450 isn’t worth over $60 unless you’re upgrading to a top-tier board such as the B450 Tomahawk—not a mediocre professional unit. Here’s a cooler priced at 17$, featuring a more robust 4 heatpipe tower. You might find cheaper options, but unless you’re saving more than $5, it’s not worth the effort. If you already have an SSD, there’s no need to switch to an NVMe drive—standard performance is sufficient for everyday use.
I find the way the pipes narrow when they reach the base annoying—it really restricts airflow. My Mugen 5 comes with smooth, round full-diameter tubing throughout the circuit. A VDH works perfectly for any 65W chip. For a 65W model I won’t overclock it, so I’m not investing more in a board than necessary. I don’t think others would agree.
Now I understand why the coolers were bending oddly as they entered the base. The main point is the value isn't right. The board itself is fine, but it wouldn't fit for around 75$. A 550 Pro4 is about 53$, and if the B350 gaming K4 sells out, that could drop to under 50$. There aren't many options below that price except low-quality A320 boards under 30$, which are just basic with poor airflow.
You seem to be questioning whether spending $150 on a Tuf B550-PLUS is justified since $75 might be enough for a B450M-VDH. It looks like you're challenging the reasoning behind that choice.
Tuf b550 offers poor value for its cost, completely overlooking the price point. It will be easily replaced by the b550m Aorus Pro P and B550 Aorus Pro AC, both of which are superior options. The 75$ price tag feels excessive for a mediocre B450 VDH, while the 150$ is far beyond what’s needed for a comparable model. The low-end RAM options and ASUS sticker quality are disappointing.
Oops, I missed that one. It’s really cheap for the specs and terrible for RAM speed, but aside from cost, the board works fine. High-frequency RAM is annoying either way. My thought is why buy a $75 B450 VDH when you can get a better B350 gaming K4 or B450 Pro4 for $17-20 less?
*shrugs* The main problem I faced was the initial kit wasn't QVL'd, except for that, the one I received needed manual settings since DOCP couldn't recognize the suggested times. But the problems from the first RAM kit were really tough!... I might not buy Ballistix again ever.