Hey everyone! I built my PC back in 2018, and I haven't done any upgrades since. I'm on a bit of a budget, so I'm not sure where to begin. Here are my current specs:
- **Processor**: Intel Core i5-8400 @ 2.80GHz
- **RAM**: 8GB
- **Storage**: 1.82TB HDD + 466GB SSD (Samsung 860 EVO)
- **Graphics Card**: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB
I'm ready to start upgrading but could use some advice on what parts to tackle first!
3 Answers
Upgrading both RAM and GPU is a good plan! If you're short on cash, I recommend getting two 16GB sticks of RAM. It’s a little overkill, but it's a powerful upgrade and won’t break the bank. For the GPU, check out used options like the RTX 2060 or RX 5000 series – those are decent choices for improving your graphics without going too crazy with spending.
If you're asking me, I’d upgrade the RAM first. 16GB should be the minimum nowadays, especially for gaming. After that, look into replacing your GPU. Finding a used i7 like the 8700 or 9700 can also extend the life of your setup, but just don’t spend too much – they’re older tech. I'd say aim for around $80 or less if you can.
I think your best bet would be to upgrade your RAM first. 8GB was pretty standard back in the day, but these days, it's definitely on the low side. Consider going for 16GB, which will make a noticeable difference. As for your GPU, if you're looking to boost game performance, a slightly better card would help, but honestly, since your whole setup is a bit dated, you might want to save up for a complete new build soon. If you're going for a new GPU, a used RTX 2060 or an RX 5600 XT could work really well with your system.
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