I've been doing some research on building my first gaming and streaming PC, and I'm looking for feedback on my component choices. I'm not sure if the motherboard difference between B650 and B850 is significant enough to affect performance. I've already purchased the case and RAM, but I'd appreciate any insights on my current selection or suggestions for cheaper GPUs that might perform just as well. Here's my current build:
- **CPU**: AMD Ryzen 5 7600X 4.7 GHz 6-Core Processor
- **CPU Cooler**: NZXT Kraken 120 Liquid CPU Cooler
- **Motherboard**: Asus ROG STRIX B850-A GAMING WIFI ATX AM5
- **Memory**: TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta RGB 32 GB (DDR5-6000)
- **Storage**: Crucial T500 1 TB NVME SSD
- **Video Card**: Gigabyte GAMING OC GeForce RTX 4060 8 GB
- **Case**: NZXT H9 Flow (2023) ATX Mid Tower
- **Power Supply**: Corsair RM850 850 W 80+ Gold Fully Modular
- **Operating System**: Microsoft Windows 11 Home
The total comes to about $1924. Anyone have thoughts on this setup?
4 Answers
You might want to rethink the GPU; grabbing a RX 9060 XT 16 GB would be a smarter choice than the 8 GB RTX 4060. And for RAM, aim for a cheaper 5600 CL40 version instead of splurging on 6000 CL30, as the difference in performance would be minor. It’s likely that spending less on RAM and getting a better GPU will give you significantly better performance for gaming.
Based on what I've seen, if you're intending to stream, bumping up to a 7700X would give you a noticeable advantage. Moreover, go for an air cooler instead of the 120mm AIO—those aren't as effective. If you can manage to snag an RTX 5060, that would bring significant improvements, especially for streaming. Your current build can work, but keep those thoughts in mind!
For what it's worth, your CPU cooler choice isn’t great, especially given its price. A thermalright 360mm AIO would give you way better performance for a similar price. And consider switching to a Montech CENTURY II 850w power supply—it's more budget-friendly and a solid choice compared to that Corsair model.
I’d suggest looking into a dual tower air cooler instead of that 120mm liquid cooler. For the same price, a good air cooler will probably perform better. Also, if you're considering GPUs, don’t go for the RTX 4060; it’s better to get an RTX 5070 for a similar price. You could save some cash on RAM too, since spending a lot for minimal performance gains isn’t worth it. Here's a great alternative for RAM that won’t break the bank: [cheaper RAM link](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8PMPVRW?tag=pcpapi-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1).

Thanks for the input! I hadn't thought about the RX 9060 XT as an alternative. That definitely seems like a better bang for my buck.