I'm planning a PC upgrade mainly for gaming, especially multiplayer games like Fortnite and GTA Online. Currently, I have a 2nd gen Ryzen CPU with 6 threads on an AM4 platform (MSI Tomahawk B450) and 2x8 GB of 2666 MHz RAM. I've been facing 100% CPU usage during Fortnite, so I'm considering whether I should just replace the CPU or if I should switch to a new platform. Also, my RAM feels pretty outdated. I'm curious how long an upgraded processor would last before I need to replace the rest of my setup as well, since I'd really like to improve my Fortnite performance. I'm playing at 2k resolution with an Intel Arc A750 graphics card, and I have a Corsair 750W PSU, which should be sufficient for stronger components. What would you do in my situation?
7 Answers
AM4 is kind of at its end, so if gaming performance is your priority, go for AM5 and a Ryzen CPU. It has tons of potential for future upgrades. Plus, Fortnite really needs a good CPU for decent FPS. I'd suggest saving up for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, it’s an excellent choice!
If you're trying to keep costs under $300, I recommend sticking with AM4. However, if you're open to spending $400 or more, think about transitioning to AM5 since it's starting to become more affordable with great options available.
The 5700X3D is a solid drop-in upgrade for now! I'd suggest using it until AM6 is released. I'm not completely sold on how much ram speed affects performance, but if you're upgrading your RAM, moving to AM5 makes sense.
I mainly game on console and play Fortnite once a week, which is why I'm even considering sticking with AM4—my gaming time is pretty limited.
If you’ve got the budget, go for an AM5 upgrade. I recently made that choice, and even though the AM4 400 series can work for a CPU upgrade, the storage limitations are a real bummer compared to the 500 and AM5 chipsets. You should also definitely upgrade that 2666 MHz RAM—going for at least 3200 CL16 is best, but you might find it’s wasted if you stick with AM4 since the performance boost from a new CPU deserves better RAM.
You're on pretty outdated components trying to game at 2K? Honestly, dropping your Fortnite settings to 1080p might yield playable FPS. If you're looking for a quick upgrade that doesn’t break the bank, check if your motherboard can support a 5700X3D—it would give you a nice boost. As for the GPU, keep an eye out for the upcoming 9060XT or even a comparable Nvidia card if the price is right. For now, I’d say stick with 1080p to meet your needs, then reassess in 2027 or 2028 when better options are out for AM5.
I’d choose AM5, but maybe not the latest chip. The 7600X or 7800X3D would provide good performance without a crazy price tag. Since AMD will likely support AM5 until around 2027, you’ll have plenty of room for future upgrades.
I'm on the fence about waiting for AM6 or upgrading now, especially since I don’t play on PC very often.
I actually saw a deal on Newegg for a whole setup—9600X with RAM, motherboard, and a 500GB SSD for just $360! AM5 is really becoming budget-friendly.