I'm looking to upgrade my gaming setup and need some advice on the best CPU and GPU combinations to hit 1440p at 144Hz. I'm sticking with my ASUS Prime B450M-A motherboard and case. My budget is around £1,200, which I want to allocate for CPU, GPU, and 32GB of RAM. I've noticed performance issues playing games like God of War: Ragnarok, and I'm also interested in titles with good graphics like BFG and ARC Raiders. I currently play World of Warships without too much trouble, but I feel a significant upgrade is needed.
Right now, my setup consists of a Ryzen 1600X, GTX 1070 8GB, and 16GB DDR4 RAM. Here are a couple of build options I'm considering:
- Option 1: RX 7900 XTX (~£700) + 5800X3D (~£330) + 32GB DDR4-3200 (~£150) E £1,180
- Option 2: RX 9070 XT (~£560) + 5800X3D + 32GB DDR4-3200 E £1,050
I'm also thinking about switching from the 5800X3D to the 5600X for cost savings. Would this affect performance severely or help reduce bottlenecking?
Additional notes: I plan on updating the BIOS on my B450 board first, and I'll be upgrading to a PSU in the range of 750-850W. I'm open to considering Nvidia GPUs like the 5070 Ti or 5080 if they offer a better fit for my budget and needs.
Here are my main questions:
1. Which combo gives the best performance for 1440p 144Hz gaming?
2. Is the 5600X a better value choice over the 5800X3D?
3. Are there any better CPU + GPU + RAM combinations within £1,200?
4. Should I consider upgrading the motherboard and starting fresh?
4 Answers
For your budget, I'd definitely suggest jumping to AM5. I’ve put together a build linked below that fits well within your budget:
- 7500F
- MSI B850 Motherboard
- 32GB DDR5-6000
- RX 9070 XT
Total runs ~£1,062. This setup future-proofs your system nicely. If you can, upgrade the air cooler as well or consider an AIO for better thermals.
Honestly, I’d steer clear of the 5800X3D with current prices. You might as well look at the 7500F/7600(X)/9600X along with DDR5 and a new motherboard. It's a better long-term option since you’ll be more prepared for future upgrades. I’d also recommend the 9070 XT over the XTX—better performance with FSR scaling makes it worthwhile. You can check out this build: [build link]. Consider adding a 7800X3D as a solid choice too, all under your budget!
That build looks really solid! How does Nvidia compare in that price range? I’ve been hearing good things about the 5070 Ti.
Your motherboard's VRMs aren't great, to be honest. It might struggle with high power draw from newer parts, so think about that for long-term stability.
True, my PC is getting old and I'm worried I waited too long to upgrade. Might need to bite the bullet here.
Out of your options, Option 2 looks like a winner. The 5600X is okay but it might not hold up well at 1440p compared to the 5800X3D. I’d also suggest just roughing out a build with a 7600X, 9070XT, and a B650 or B850 motherboard with 32GB DDR5. You’ll get strong performance and you’ll be on a platform you can easily upgrade later. The prices for the 5800X3D have really inflated anyway, check that AM5 route! You could sell your old parts to help fund it!
Someone else mentioned a similar setup and it fits right under my budget! Looks like a solid path forward.
Looks like going for a new mobo is the best call for future upgrades! Do you think an air cooler is enough, or should I invest in an AIO?