I'm looking for advice on upgrading my current setup, which includes an i5 9600KF processor, an H310 motherboard, and DDR4 RAM, along with an AMD Radeon 9060XT graphics card with 16GB memory. I've got two potential upgrade paths in mind: either moving to an i5 12400F with a B660 motherboard (also DDR4 capable) and keeping the option open for future 13th/14th Gen CPUs, or switching to AMD with a 5600X on an X470 or B550 motherboard, which would allow me to later upgrade to a 5800X3D (my last stop with the AM4 socket). Both options would cost me around the same amount, but I'm trying to keep my budget in check since DDR5 isn't an option for me. My last upgrade only set me back £120, which got me back into gaming. Honestly, I would consider AM5 if the RAM costs weren't so high. What do you think is the best route for me?
5 Answers
If the B660 isn't a micro 'M' class board, you should be fine with going for the 13th/14th gen after a BIOS update. Going AM4 or AM5 sounds pricey with the extra costs of new motherboards and RAM.
If you're looking for a powerful upgrade, I'd suggest considering something like a 13600K. The 12400F isn’t much stronger than your current i5, and the 9060XT might end up bottlenecking in more demanding games.
I found a 5800XT and B550 combo for around $300 on Newegg. If you’re not in the US, look for similar deals on local marketplaces or eBay. I snagged a 5800X for a good price there. I’d hold off on upgrading until you’re ready to jump to AM5 or AM6.
I'd recommend sticking with the AM4 option because AMD chips typically perform better in gaming. Plus, getting a 5600X would put you in a good position to upgrade to an X3D model later if it comes available. Plus, you can keep your DDR4 RAM, which saves you a bit.
I'd lean towards the 13th or 14th gen Intel option. The X3Ds are pretty scarce these days, and since you’re not already on AM4, it might make more sense to go Intel here.
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