Tips for improving your system: focus on CPU, add a motherboard booster, boost RAM capacity.
Tips for improving your system: focus on CPU, add a motherboard booster, boost RAM capacity.
Hello. I’m seeking guidance on improving my setup. As noted in the discussion, I’m located in RSA, so options and costs may vary significantly compared to other regions. My existing hardware is quite outdated, but I’m not after the latest models like the 9800X3D or 9950X3D—they’re expensive and difficult to source locally. My current configuration (1080p) includes:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 1600X
- Motherboard: Asus Prime X470-Pro ATX AM4
- RAM: Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro SL 32 GB (2×16 GB) DDR4-3600MHz
- Cooler: GAMDIAS CHIONE M2 67 CFM Liquid
- GPU: Asus STRIX GAMING OC GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER 6 GB
- Case: Antec Dark Phantom DP502 Flux ATX Mid Tower
- Power Supply: Antec VP PLUS 650 W (80+ certified)
I’m planning to upgrade using a kit—typically combining CPU, motherboard, RAM, and cooler for optimal value. I have two kits under consideration:
Prefer kit #1 mainly for its better memory, but for gaming it’s likely kit #2 performs better—just need to boost the RAM. Either way, both will greatly surpass the 1600x, though the gaps might be smaller in the 1660S. Definitely aim for a b850 board; from what I see, the b840 is just the next step after the a620.
Why not just swap in a 5600X/5700X/5800X/5800XT? The 5700 is nearly half the cost of the 9700X. Options like 5700x or 5800XT are more affordable. That Antec power supply is really bad quality! This FSP offers better value for its price.
I’m shifting more support toward kit #1 for the RAM, given how costly RAM is rising. Based on my research, I think I can push the 9700X overclock to match or even exceed the 7800X3D performance. This opinion comes from forum discussions only, so it might not reflect reality. I’m not overly focused on gaming alone, which is why I’m open to choosing kit #2 for that purpose as well—since I maintain my system myself. I’ve seen options like the 5700X that require minimal hardware changes. However, the situation is about around eight years old now, and I suspect a problem with my motherboard causing boot loops. I’d also prefer moving to the AM5 platform to ensure long-term stability and avoid repeating this setup soon. Concerning the power supply, it’s been reliable so far, but I’ll upgrade it when I replace the GPU.
I highly suggest the thermalright phantom spirit 120SE, priced near $35. It effectively chills my brother's 9950X without any problems. Upgrade to a larger cooler only when pushing extreme overclocks. For Ryzen processors, stick with DDR5-6000, preferably CL30 or better. Avoid lower or higher speeds—they often cause trouble—and 6000 offers the best balance of performance, price, and stability.