Upgrades advice ?
Upgrades advice ?
My current configuration:
I’m using an ASUS A320M-K motherboard, a Corsair RM750e power supply, a Ryzen 5 3600 CPU, a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super GPU, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and storage that includes a 1TB HDD plus a 256GB NVMe SSD.
Recently, I decided to upgrade my PSU from Corsair CV450 to a new one, then added a MSI GeForce RTX5070 12G Ventus 3X OC. In short, I didn’t notice that my motherboard is Micro ATX and the GPU is quite bulky, so it blocked other PCIe connections. Now I’m having to purchase a PCIe riser to fit my Wi-Fi card. As far as I know, USB Wi-Fi adapters aren’t as dependable as PCIe, which is why I’m stuck with this setup. I can’t run an Ethernet cable that far for the connection.
I also bought a Lexar NM610PRO 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD (only one Gen 3 I found since my motherboard doesn’t support Gen4/5). I thought I had a SATA SSD, but I’m not sure. I already have an NVMe drive, so I need to get a cloning adapter to switch everything over. Any advice would be helpful?
At the moment, I’m considering replacing my CPU with a Ryzen 5 5600. Given the problems I’ve faced—my GPU covering PCIe slots and the extra SSD I bought—I’m wondering if upgrading the motherboard is worth it.
I know my motherboard uses an AM4 socket, so my CPU upgrade options are limited. I’m not sure how much more I could improve by changing it, but I’m also hesitant about replacing the board itself. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
In terms of games, I mainly play simulators, Football Manager, or PC-only titles, preferably on PC. I own an Xbox Series X and enjoy all AAA games there. So I’m not sure if every major upgrade is necessary.
Hey there,
I almost swallowed my sandwich while reading that. Thankfully you changed it out. That's a terrible PSU.
Yes, I highly recommend getting a new motherboard. The A320 models are really lacking. It's also quite old. The 5600 offers a decent upgrade. But if those aren't available nearby, a 5600x3d/5700x3d/5800x3d would be better. Also, a standard 5700x/5800x would work as a backup.
What speed are your RAMs running at? RAM can really impact performance with Zen3/AM4 combinations.
Some USB Wi-Fi adapters perform better than others, though they usually don't last very long. The internal components generate a lot of heat, which gets trapped in a small enclosure, causing them to overheat over time. I've experienced mostly positive results with TPLink adapters. I've also tried PCIe risers before and haven't faced any problems.
You might consider using an adapter like this to mount the drive externally for cloning its data:
https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Enclo...se&keywords=nvme+to+usb&qid=1761147375&sr=8-4
For a more balanced approach, you could check out a Ryzen 7 5700X over the 5600 model—it's a bit pricier but offers better overall performance.
https://pcpartpicker.com/product/JmhFf7/...0000926wof
Additionally, increasing your RAM from 16GB to 32GB could improve compatibility with newer games and applications.
If you're planning a motherboard upgrade, consider switching to platforms like AM5. Prices have dropped, and LGA 1700 options are still available with good value.
I've used it for three months without any problems, though someone said it was bad before, which was unexpected.
The complexity of a new motherboard compared to other tasks is unclear.
I'll have to verify my RAM once I'm back home.
It involves several steps to simplify the process. You need to take out most of your parts from the case, reassemble them, and reconnect everything properly. To make things easier, it's also recommended to install your CPU, RAM, cooler, and SSD before putting everything back in. The type of case you're using will influence the size of the motherboard you can use.
The warnings regarding that PSU are valid. It should only be used in an office PC. A new motherboard installation requires some time and patience, involving connecting all necessary components such as the motherboard, CPU backplate, cooler, RAM, etc. It's not something that can be easily reversed.
Also, please let us know about the RAM. @artk2219 has a valid point—32GB would be preferable.
Given the issues you're facing and for quality of life, best to go with new CPU-MoBo-RAM combo. Like so:
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU:
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X 3.9 GHz 6-Core Processor
($196.00 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler:
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital 88.89 CFM CPU Cooler
($42.59 @ Amazon)
Motherboard:
ASRock B850 Pro RS WiFi ATX AM5 Motherboard
($189.99 @ Amazon)
Memory:
Patriot Viper Venom 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6400 CL32 Memory
($144.99 @ Newegg)
Total:
$573.57
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by
PCPartPicker
2025-10-22 12:02 EDT-0400
MoBo has built-in wi-fi, so you don't need to use dedicated wi-fi card anymore. Instead, you can use your RTX 5070 now.
Note: MoBo is ATX and CPU cooler is 162mm tall. If your PC case can't take ATX MoBo and/or has less clearance, do tell, so i can look for compatible hardware.
I've already invested about £700 in the new GPU, SSD, and PSU. I had in mind spending a similar amount on the CPU and cooler. I think the additional costs for the motherboard and memory are justified?
I expect my setup can fit an ATX, and the cooler shouldn't be a problem. I also intend to get the Peerless board for the CPU since I've heard positive reviews about it.