I inherited a fairly old desktop from my dad, and the processor is the only major component I haven't replaced. It currently has an Intel Core i5-760, which still handles some games, but it lacks newer instruction sets such as AVX and is becoming a problem with modern software.
I've been considering AMD processors from the Ryzen 5000 through Ryzen 7000 families, but my budget is limited. I'm looking for the most affordable platform that will still perform reasonably well for gaming and everyday use. Would upgrading to something like Ryzen 5000 make sense, or should I look for a complete used PC instead?
My current motherboard is an ASUS P7H55D-M PRO with 16GB of DDR3-1600 memory. I'm also using a GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER, which I'd prefer to keep for now. The power supply is an older Aurora ZIA700W14CMFAN, so I'm unsure whether it should be replaced as well.
2 Answers
Before spending money on individual parts, compare the total cost with a used desktop that already has a Ryzen 3000/5000 or Intel 10th-generation-or-newer system. Since your current platform needs a motherboard and RAM in addition to the CPU, a complete used PC may be the better deal.
I would also replace that power supply rather than carry it into a new build. The advertised wattage matters less than the unit’s age, design, and protections, and an old low-quality supply can damage other components. A reputable 500W–650W model would be plenty for a Ryzen 5 and GTX 1660 SUPER. Check the exact model and local pricing before buying, and avoid generic bargain PSUs.
You can’t just swap in a modern CPU because your current motherboard only supports first-generation Intel chips. A Ryzen 5000 build would require a new motherboard and DDR4 memory, while Ryzen 7000 would require an AM5 motherboard and DDR5, making it more expensive.
For a tight budget, a Ryzen 5 5600 with a B550 motherboard and 16GB or 32GB of DDR4 is a solid choice. It’s usually worth paying a little more for the 5600 rather than the 5500 because it has better performance and more cache. Your GTX 1660 SUPER should work fine in that system for now. You’ll need a graphics card connected to the monitor because the Ryzen 5 5600 does not have integrated graphics.
That clears up a lot. I was looking at a B550M board and didn’t realize the memory had to be replaced too, but I’ll plan around a Ryzen 5 5600, DDR4, and keeping the 1660 SUPER for now.
I suspected the power supply might be a problem, so I’ll include a reliable replacement in the budget and also compare the cost against used complete systems.