I'm looking to buy a gaming PC with a budget of $800. I'm considering a used RTX 3060 (12GB) for $200 and an i7 14700k for about $250. My main concern is compatibility and performance for demanding games like Elden Ring. I've heard that the 3060 might limit me to 1080p gaming, so I'm open to recommendations for a better 1440p GPU that fits my budget. I'm also unsure about what motherboard to choose that would be compatible with these parts. I'll likely buy a 1TB Samsung SSD and I'm thinking about 32GB of used RAM, but I need advice on what type. Overall, I want my games to look and run great without exceeding $800. Any suggestions?
3 Answers
I can help you put together a solid $800 build! The 7700 XT would be a great option as it outperforms the 3060 significantly without going over budget. Make sure to check sites like Newegg for great deals on RAM and compatible components.
Skip the 14700k, especially if it's used, and think about building an AMD system instead. Go for something like an AMD 9700x or a similar option on the AM5 platform since it’s future-proof. You can upgrade the CPU later without changing everything else.
Absolutely! The AM5 platform allows for easier upgrades down the line. Plus, you could find a decent system that keeps performance steady without breaking the bank.
Avoid the used 14700k; there's a risk of overheating and degradation. Instead, consider looking for a 12th-gen Intel CPU, like a 12600k or 12700k. You could use those savings to invest more in a better GPU for 1440p gaming.

I found a memory kit for 32GB at a great price on Newegg! If you need help finding it, let me know.