This model offers a significant improvement over the FX-8320.
This model offers a significant improvement over the FX-8320.
Hi there! I’ve been using my bulldozer chip since around 2012 and it’s performed well. With changing times and less support for drivers, I’m thinking about an upgrade to something newer. I currently have a 1050ti GPU, which might help if it’s useful. The second generation Ryzen CPUs have just come out and offer good value, but I’d appreciate some advice. My budget is around 700, and I mainly play games at 1080p resolution—any suggestions for a more modern option would be great! Thanks!
I can provide you with a comparison point, we're using an FX6300 that's handling a particular render. On my R5 1600 it takes about 3 hours and 16 minutes. For the R7 1700, you can usually find it for around $200 in the US, offering better value compared to the second-gen Ryzen.
Given this budget, I’d suggest going for a Ryzen 5 2600X. The enhancements AMD added to Infinity Fabric with the Ryzen 2 are impressive. Spending around $450 covers a new CPU, motherboard, and RAM that should keep you running for three to four years. The remaining components can be reused from your current setup. With an additional $250 to $300, you could upgrade to a GTX 1060 or add other improvements like a better case, an aftermarket cooler for overclocking, or an SSD.
PCPartPicker part list: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/7d8JMZ
Price breakdown by merchant: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/7d8JMZ/by_merchant/
CPU: AMD - Ryzen 5 2600X 3.6GHz 6-Core Processor ($209.99 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: MSI - B350 PC MATE ATX AM4 ($61.89 @ OutletPC)
Memory: G.Skill - Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200 ($164.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $436.87 (includes shipping, taxes, and discounts)
Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-05-26 14:36 EDT-0400
Ryzen and Intel models from the 2nd generation Core i series offer the best value for money. This holds true no matter your opinion. Let's get straight to the key points. The Ryzen 2600 delivers the top raw performance, while the 8700K stands out as the absolute best in raw power.
I initially planned to use the Ryzen 7 2700X but opted for the TR4 1950X because the budget wasn’t a concern. For a 700 budget, you could easily upgrade to something future-proof that would last longer.
So a 2700 unit costs around 289 dollars on Amazon. Even when running at full speed, it performs much better than the 8320. Here’s the link: https://www.amazon.com/AMD-Ryzen-Process...=AMD+2700x
If you’re thinking about boosting performance, I’d opt for a solid air cooler priced between 30 to 40 dollars. I shared two options so you can pick your favorite. The pure rock slim handles about 120 watts of heat and works well at normal temperatures. Check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/quiet-BK008-Pure-...=srch&th=1
For those aiming to push harder, the pure rock BK009 is a better pick—it removes 150 watts and supports higher speeds at cooler temps. See: https://www.amazon.com/quiet-BK008-Pure-...=srch&th=1
Both coolers are under 50 dollars. If you skip overclocking, the box cooler is fine for now. It handles the 2700 nicely. I’d then consider the Gigabyte X470 AORUS Ultra for around 139 dollars, featuring all the features you need. Link: https://www.amazon.com/X470-AORUS-ULTRA-...=AMD+2700x
Lastly, RAM speed matters for the second-gen Ryzen. I went with a 3200 MHz kit. To boost performance even more, you could tweak the timings in the BIOS. I chose a 16GB kit from Corsair Vengeance LPX, which clocks at about 219 MHz. Here’s the link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0143UM4TC/ref...UTF8&psc=1
The prices listed don’t include discounts, so you might get a better deal on the items I mentioned. Overall, the total without coolers comes to about 647 dollars. With the pure rock slim included, it’s 679 dollars. With the BK009, it’s 688 dollars. This fits within your 700 dollar range, so you could even treat yourself to a pizza while building. If you prefer an Intel build, just let me know!
If you're close to Micro Center, you can significantly cut costs. Choose any board and get advice from a representative about 3200MHz RAM available at the same location. Alternatively, purchase it from retailers like Newegg or Amazon. Choices are excellent!
Switzerland isn't great for getting PC components. The only option is to purchase them online... There are no physical stores selling PC parts.
They definitely aren't attempting to steal you without warning! In Jamaica, if you step inside a shop and talk, it’s cheap. https://www.shopcomputerdepot.com/part/6917 Western Digital OEM 2.5"-500GB SATA3 - WD500LPCX Laptop Hard Drive Conversion from JMD to USD and then see how your life changes! That’s the cost for a 500GB HDD... I’m importing my frustration!