I'm planning to build my first PC with a budget of around $750. My goal is to run less demanding games like Rocket League at 1080p with high or ultra settings aiming for around 120fps. For AAA games, I'd like to achieve stable play at 60-70fps, specifically for games like Cyberpunk 2077. I'm using a 1080p monitor at 120fps, and while I'm thinking about upgrading in the future, that's my main constraint for now. I'm looking at AMD's AM4 series for its value and future-proofing. I'm considering the following parts, but I'm going to wait for sales to buy them:
* CPU: Ryzen 5 - 5600?
* Motherboard: ASUS TUF A520M with WiFi
* GPU: Unsure, looking for something around $100 - $150, aiming for 1080p, possibly 1440p, 120 fps+ (probably through Black Friday sales)
* RAM: Cheapest DDR4 2x16 GB
* SSD: 1TB PCIe 3/4 M.2
* PSU: ~650W 80+ Bronze
* Case: Inexpensive ATX Case
* Cooler: Stock or a budget tower if necessary.
Here's my Part Picker link: [PC Build List](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/7MXzwY). I'm a total beginner, mostly relying on YouTube tutorials about budget builds. Any guidance would be a huge help!
4 Answers
Your strategy sounds solid! AM4 is still a great option, but if you're not in a hurry, consider waiting for AM5. There aren't huge upgrades expected for the next year and a half. Your CPU choice is good, but I’d suggest checking for a motherboard that supports PCIe 4.0 and allows for overclocking—worth the extra $30. For the GPU, if you’re prepared to look for used options, a slightly more powerful one for around $200 might be a safer bet. And definitely do some research on RAM; not all DDR4 is equal, and it can bottleneck your performance. Also, while you can save on the case, ensure it has good airflow or add fans to keep your build cool. Overall, you're on the right track just with a few tweaks! Good luck!
You might want to check this out: [My Updated Parts List](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/vdkrBq). It has a better motherboard and some stronger RAM, which is especially important for Ryzen’s performance. It’s all for a lower price and comes with a more capable GPU that can achieve 70-80 fps at 1440p high settings in Cyberpunk. And remember, you could save a bunch by getting a cheaper Windows version online!
If you’re looking for good value on a budget, you might want to consider Intel bundles nowadays. For example, you can find a bundle with a 14600K CPU, a 1TB SATA SSD, a B760M motherboard, and 32GB of RAM for around $280. Check out sites like Newegg for similar deals that could really help stretch your budget!
I appreciate the suggestion! I've mostly been leaning towards AMD due to its longevity, but it's worth checking out those Intel bundles to see if they are good for the long term.
You're definitely smart to compare parts and look for better pricing. For the GPU, I'd suggest aiming for something with better performance, especially if you're planning on playing AAA titles. Check for sales on reputable sites; it can significantly influence your gaming experience without breaking the bank. Remember, a good cooler might also help boost your performance!
Thanks for the advice! I’ll definitely look into used GPUs and keeping that RAM speed in mind. It’s good to know I’m on the right track!