Which CPU is better?
Which CPU is better?
Hi there! You're looking to upgrade your system for gaming with a 3060 Ti or higher. Right now you have a Gigabyte B450M DS3H and a Ryzen 5 1600. You're considering updating the BIOS on your current motherboard and adding a Ryzen 7 5800X, which would eliminate the need for a different motherboard. Alternatively, you could purchase a new motherboard around $100 and an Intel Core i7 12700F, similar to the Ryzen 7 5800X. You're planning to use this build for both old and modern games, as well as general browsing.
I understand the 12700F offers better benchmarks, but they tend to need stronger cooling solutions since the stock cooler isn’t very effective. On the other hand, the stock cooler on your Ryzen 7 5800X seems to perform adequately. Since you're not an expert, I’d appreciate any advice from others!
Keep using what you have now. Upgrading isn't necessary. No need to invest in a new board.
Good luck with the 5800X cooling! It doesn’t include a cooler, and it’s much hotter than a 1600. Consider upgrading to a 5600X or using your existing cooler if possible.
I currently possess the Ryzen 5 1600 cooler, but it seems they don’t come with one included.
I don't recommend 5800x for that setup, it could really stress the VRMs on the motherboard. You won't get the chip to perform at its best with it. Finding a balance is key, especially when pairing a high-end processor with a budget board. The 5800x also demands significant cooling—expect air coolers in the $65-$90 range or 280/360 AIO options. A 5600x would be a better fit for your needs.
I’d really like something at 5800x or better. Do you think the board could unlock its full capabilities? As long as I keep updating the bios, why not reach its maximum potential? I can manage around £50 for a cooler (prices in GBP). Just want to get the most out of it while staying within my budget.
It isn't the top choice, but saving cash now and replacing it later makes more sense. If you don’t notice, moving to an Intel board would likely cost more in the end.
The board features uncooled and lower-end components, particularly in the power delivery area. It's an entry-level design meant for low-power CPUs. The 5800X will function, but you probably won’t reach its full potential PBO or clock speeds since it’s built for a more modest board. It feels similar to fitting a V8 engine into a small car—it sounds cool, but in reality it won’t perform as expected.
The intel setup would equip your PCIE4, which could influence the next-gen graphics options based on the model you choose. High-end cards typically require it for optimal performance, while lower-end ones might use it due to current trends favoring simpler designs. For instance, a PCIe4x4 or x8 interface would only fit on a B450 with PCIe3x4 or x8, leading to reduced speed. In my opinion, if you're just gaming, opting for the 5600X for $259 in the USA would be ideal, especially if you're using a Wraith Spire board. This model supports maximum performance from that GPU, though gaming differences between 5600X and 5800X are minimal, and it will still outperform older models like the 1600. The 5600X also works well with the stock Wraith Spire.