What a shocking price for a machine from ten years prior!
What a shocking price for a machine from ten years prior!
This video sparked some ideas about my setup. It’s even from back in 2013. My motherboard is an ASUS Sabertooth 87z, the processor is a 4770k from that year, and I swapped my graphics card from an EVGA 980 ti to a newer EVGA 1070 ti. The RAM is Patriot 32GB at 1600mhz. Sadly, I can’t afford to upgrade right now. I was thinking about getting a 1080 ti in the future, but maybe it’s better to focus on upgrading the CPU and motherboard first. If I do that, I’ll likely need cheaper RAM too? Any advice? Updated for those wondering about costs—I’d prefer the more affordable option. I’ll probably spend around $200 here or there, depending on what I find. Yes, I’m in Toronto. What I hope from upgrading is higher frame rates. I mainly play Warzone, and currently it runs between 60 and 85 fps, depending on the screen activity. My monitor is decent, an MSI Optix G24C at 144 hz. I managed to upgrade mine a few years back for a bit more fps, but before that it was a slower Samsung at 60 hz, limiting me to around 60 fps. If I manage something that pushes me to 100 fps or more in Warzone, that would be great. Edited April 20, 2025 by IamSkull5150
What's your actual spending plan? Used market 3000 series Ryzen CPUs plus motherboard and RAM can be quite affordable, and you might still get a good deal even on 5000 series boards since many are moving to AM5. I wouldn't upgrade the GPU until you've upgraded the CPU. You could likely skip the GPU and go straight to AM5 with a Ryzen 5 7500f, board, and DDR5 RAM for around $300 if that fits your budget. The motherboard will need to be simple.
I'm also on a limited budget, but if you share that, I’d definitely consider a used AM4 and CPU combo. Or opt for both separately if you can’t find a good deal. Wouldn’t invest in upgrading from a GTX 1070 Ti to a GTX 1080 Ti unless it’s worth it financially. You might manage with a new setup and upgrade to the GTX 1070 Ti later if you can afford a better GPU. The AM4 socket is nearing the end of its life—perhaps the last generation (5xxx) still works, or you might stumble upon a used 5xxx CPU. If not, chances are limited to finding older 3xxx models. Honestly, a 3600 could be a solid choice; DDR4 prices are still relatively stable, and since it’s essentially end-of-life, it should be affordable. Remember, everything is outdated now, but it can be cheaper than buying new. Going to AM5 would cost more since it uses a newer socket and we’re dealing with 9xxx CPUs. DDR5 is pricier too, so second-hand options are slim unless you’re lucky. Not sure how long AM5 support lasts, but upgrading later might be possible if your finances improve. Generally, sticking with AM4 or AM5 is safer, especially if you can’t upgrade the CPU. If you manage a budget-friendly build, an Intel setup could work too—maybe it’s easier to cool and uses less power. You might even reuse your current case and fans. The GPU scene is tricky right now, but a GTX 1070 Ti could still fit into a new build or an RTX 20xx if you’re willing to stretch your budget. Also, consider your power supply—upgrades might need a newer one. Your situation depends on your location and what second-hand options exist nearby.
AM4 is the way to go, but I think a "10k" build isn't always the best choice, especially if you're just starting out. It's a bit of a joke about spending a lot on something, right? (Some games now need ray tracing, but I don't think that's a big deal. Just keep those companies off my list—it's already huge, everyone is welcome!)