Upgrading My System with AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d
Upgrading My System with AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d
I’ve chosen to enhance my PC with the AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d, which I’ve already ordered, and I’m seeking guidance on completing the remaining setup.
The upgrade will remain in place for over a decade, so I’m aiming for a future-proof solution.
Estimated purchase timing: this week.
Budget expectations: reasonable.
Usage priority from highest to lowest:
- Primarily Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Pro
- Web browsing and occasional gaming.
Monitor situation: No – I already own an LG 27GL850 2K 144hz gaming monitor.
Upgrade components:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d (already ordered)
- RAM: 32GB, dual-channel kit
- Motherboard: Deciding between MSI x870e Tomahawk or x870e Carbon – any other x870e model?
- CPU cooler: I intend to reuse my existing Noctua NH-D14 cooler with a new mounting kit or should I switch to something else? (Preferring air coolers over liquid.)
- Thermal paste: Will reuse the Zotac Nvidia 1660 Super paste I already have.
- Graphics card: Plan to reuse the Zotac Nvidia 1660 Super (6GB) I possess or upgrade?
- Storage: Which two 2TB M.2 SSDs should I select for the operating system, plus recommendations for an 8TB HDD for backups? Also, I intend to keep my existing 1TB Samsung 860 EVO SSD.
- Power supply: Corsair HX850 850W Platinum, fully modular design – will I need a different model?
- Case: Cooler Master HAF X – plan to reuse it.
OS requirements: No installation needed.
Preferred purchasing platforms: amazon.in
Location: New Delhi, India
Parts preferences: AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d based system for photo and video editing, RAM from Corsair or GSkill.
Overclocking: Not required.
Multiple GPUs: No.
Monitor resolution: 2560x1440
Additional notes: I’ve been operating with a second-generation Intel Core i7 3930K (Sandy Bridge), 16GB RAM, and an Asus P9X79 Pro motherboard. After 14 years, upgrading is necessary due to incompatibility with the latest Adobe versions (especially Photoshop and Premiere Pro) and the impending end of Windows 10 support, which won’t work with Windows 11 either.
Thank you in advance.
The ideal DDR5 platform runs at 6000Mhz with minimal delays, supports dual channels, and features AMD's E.X.P.O branding. Avoid using ASRock motherboards. It's recommended to format your threads with the details provided in this discussion; specifically, how to request advice for new builds or upgrades. This adaptation draws from the original post on forums. where community members shared helpful tips. For reference, a Corsair HX850 PSU in a Coolermaster HAF X case should be adequate for the upgraded setup. If you plan to replace the PSU, confirm whether this model matches your needs. The noctua thermal paste purchased around 9-10 years ago is still sealed and unused. Would you like to use it again, or do you need a fresh one? Your location matters too—if you're in a hot, humid climate, the paste may have dried out.
It's a high-quality PSU, and I have no concerns about using it with your current setup since you intend to retain your 1660 GPU, which would still be covered under warranty. Should you decide to upgrade the GPU later, I’d think about it.
I should check if the thermal paste is still intact or separated. If it’s hardened, it won’t come out easily, and if it’s separated you’ll notice it clearly, though it might be possible to reapply. If you need a new tube, Noctuas NTH1 compound is suitable, as are products from Arctic. Most thermal pastes are now similar, provided they’re from reputable brands. You could also look into phase change materials like PTM7950, which should theoretically last indefinitely.
Regarding motherboards, I’d prefer the B850 over an X series board. X series boards are rarely worth the higher price, and for your needs you won’t feel any difference except in terms of cost savings. Most B850 boards, except the very budget options, perform well. Just ensure you update the BIOS to the latest version to prevent any issues.
Crucial T500s have been competitively priced in the US for 2TB models. If they’re reasonably priced, it’s a solid choice.
I think it's perfectly okay. Air coolers haven't changed much over time because they are fairly basic gadgets.
In recent years, air coolers have significantly improved and now outperform AIOs at a lower cost. A 35 dollar Thermalright Assassin spirit 120mm cooler offers superior performance compared to the Noctua NH-D15 while maintaining comparable or better noise levels. This progress is mainly due to minor manufacturing tweaks and some enhancements in heat pipe technology.
Your current setup should work fine with the available resources.