Upgrading motherboard and CPU components
Upgrading motherboard and CPU components
Hey everyone, I'm starting this project for the first time by modifying my motherboard and CPU. I've assembled my PC before, but now I'm doing it myself since the shop built it for me. In the past, I've made some upgrades like switching to an AIO cooler, so I want to be sure I follow the right steps. I'm keeping everything else the same except the parts.
Current setup: Intel i5 6400, MSI B150 gaming motherboard, Corsair H60 AIO.
New components: AMD Ryzen 3600, MSI B450 Tomahawk Max, same Corsair H60 AIO.
Could you share some tips? I'm especially curious about what to watch for when switching from Intel to AMD—beyond just the hardware changes. Things like software updates, compatibility issues, or performance considerations. I'm using identical hard drives and OS until I install the new ones, so everything should stay consistent. Thanks in advance!
I’ve got the complete list from PCPartPicker. The old link is gone now. Seems the budget isn’t a big concern since I’ve finalized the new components. Updated on June 19, 2020 by Fenrir8080.
Start with a 3600 non-x, it’s identical in everything else. Same FPU, same IPC, same memory size. If you already have the cooler, keep it; otherwise an Arctic freezer or even a standard cooler works. Lastly, at 2400 MHz you’d likely rely on Hyix ICs (not well known for overclocking), you can technically overclock it, but anything above 2933 seems unreachable—so upgrading RAM later would probably help.
This processor runs at a very low RAM speed for Ryzen. Please aim for at least 3200MHz. Adding more RAM sticks improves stability and reduces stutters, but increases heat. Consider using two 8GB sticks with a minimum of 3200MHz speed. The cooler is decent, though not exceptional. It's better than the original but still limited.
I thought you were getting a 3600 because it’s cheaper by about 30 dollars, around 160 USD on Amazon. Also, consider upgrading to faster RAM—Intel doesn’t really prioritize high speeds, but Ryzen processors benefit from them. A 3200MHz is usually the minimum, and you can find a budget-friendly 16GB kit for around 60 USD.
I understand. The 3600 is correct. I didn’t accidentally adjust the CPU in pcpartpicker. I should probably get a 3200 MHz RAM too. Should I switch from an AIO cooler to a fan cooler? Also, will I need to reinstall Windows because the motherboard is being replaced? I’m thinking of installing it in the M.2 slot. My OS is currently on an OC-TRION SSD that’s three years old. Edited June 19, 2020 by Fenrir8080