Hey everyone! I'm looking to upgrade my PC since it's been about four years, and I've been running into some issues with newer games mostly due to RAM and VRAM limitations. Here's my current setup:
- Asus Prime B450M-A
- R7 5700X3D
- 3070ti FE
- Corsair Vengeance 4x8GB 3000Mhz CL16
- 2TB WD SN850 Gen4 NVMe
- Thermaltake GF1 850W 80+ Gold PSU
- Dual 1440p monitors
I just picked up an MSI Shadow 5070ti 3X OC and I'm hoping the 16GB VRAM will help with performance in games that are VRAM-limited. I've got a 30-day return window, so I'm considering my options.
I want to bump up to 64GB of RAM at 3600Mhz CL16, but found out my motherboard only allows for 4x16GB at 3200Mhz if I want that total. Plus, the M.2 slot only supports Gen3, so I'm not getting the full speeds for my NVMe drive.
I'm weighing these options:
A) Get a B550M motherboard that supports Gen 4 M.2 and 2x32GB 3600Mhz CL16 RAM.
B) Just install the 5070ti in my current setup and call it done.
C) Return the 5070ti and wait to do a full rebuild on AM5.
The new motherboard and RAM will cost around $250. Do you think it's worth it to invest in that for a better performance now or just wait for the full upgrade? I spent $900 on the GPU, but I'm not too worried since I can return it or use it in the AM5 setup later. I appreciate any thoughts you might have! Thanks!
4 Answers
Definitely think about getting that B550M board. It's worth the investment for the future, and you can maximize your current setup's potential. 64GB of RAM will definitely help with multitasking. Plus, you'll be set when you do finally switch to AM5!
It sounds like you're in a bit of a pickle! Switching to a B550M motherboard will definitely give you the option for faster NVMe speeds and more RAM. If your budget allows it, going for 64GB RAM would be beneficial, especially if you multitask a lot. Plus, two sticks typically perform better with AMD chips. If you can live with your current build a bit longer, you might also want to consider waiting for the full AM5 upgrade. Just keep in mind, the 5070ti will be a solid upgrade, so maybe stick it in for now while you figure out your next move!
I’d go the route of just putting the 5070ti in your current setup for now. You can always do the motherboard and RAM upgrade later when you’re ready for a full rebuild. Just make sure you’re using the RAM in A2/B2 slots for optimal performance!
Good point! I’ll definitely keep that in mind about the RAM slots. Thanks for the tip!
If the parts are all compatible and you’re looking at a $250 investment, I’d go for the new motherboard and RAM. It’ll prolong the life of your current rig, and you’ll see good gains in gaming and productivity right away!
That makes sense! For gaming, having more VRAM like the 5070ti will help right now, so I'd say try that. But if you're planning a full AM5 setup soon, maybe just go for the upgrade once and make it last.