What are the top choices for upgrading?
What are the top choices for upgrading?
I'm considering an upgrade path with my current setup. I have a used i7-9700f for around 125-135 USD and a H310M motherboard for about 70 USD. I'm thinking about getting a Z370 motherboard for roughly 70 USD next, which would still be viable in 2023. Alternatively, I might look at an i5-11400f. My GPU options include a 1080Ti for 175 USD or an RTX 2080 (non-LHR) at 230 USD, and a RTX 3060 for 250 USD. Within my budget of 350-445 USD, what would be the best value?
You don’t have to replace the motherboard just for adding a new chip. It will still be locked, so you’ll need a processor with a compatible socket. If upgrading to a 400 or 500 series board is possible, that would be the best option. The 6c/12t 11400F will perform better than the 8c/8t 9700F. You should aim for an LGA1700 socket with an i5-12400F, which allows future upgrades to 14th generation chips. Moving to AM5 isn’t recommended unless you plan to use DDR5, as it would require a different setup. The 2080 GPU is faster, but the RTX3060 is more recent, uses less power, and offers more VRAM. The choice depends on how long you intend to keep the current setup.
I recommend considering a Ryzen 5600 on a B450/B550 board, or even the Ryzen 3600. You might also upgrade to a 5800X3D later, which will serve you well for a long time. Between the 3060 and the 2080, the 2080 would be the best choice.
You don’t have to replace the motherboard just for adding a new chip. It will still be locked, so you’ll need a processor with a compatible socket. If upgrading to a 400 or 500 series board is possible, that would be the best option. The 6c/12t 11400F will perform better than the 8c/8t 9700F. You should aim for an LGA1700 socket with an i5-12400F, which allows future upgrades to 14th generation chips. Moving to AM5 isn’t recommended unless you plan to use DDR5, as it would require a different setup. The 2080 GPU is faster, but the RTX3060 is more recent, uses less power, and offers more VRAM. The choice depends on how long you intend to keep the current setup.
8gb is sufficient for 1080p. Electricity costs are lower in South America compared to Europe, so power consumption shouldn't be a major factor.
I'm sorry about getting a power-hungry GPU. Keeping the room cool is tough even with air conditioning while gaming.
I believe my next GPU will be a mid-range 'downgrade'.
I'm not having success there, but I'm aiming for a fresh build by year-end and already have a Samsung G7 43", so it's 4K. Checking the 7900XT!