I'm putting together my first serious gaming PC and haven't ordered anything yet, so I'm open to changing the parts. My main games include Valorant, where I'd like to take advantage of a future 240Hz or 360Hz monitor, but I also want strong performance in modern AAA games at 1440p. Ideally, the system should remain capable for at least five years.
The parts I'm currently considering are a Ryzen 7 9850X3D for about €428, an RX 9070 XT 16GB for about €896, an ASUS TUF Gaming B850-PLUS WiFi motherboard for €175, and a Samsung 990 PRO 2TB SSD for €280. That brings the current total to roughly €1,779.
I still need to choose the memory, CPU cooler, power supply, and case. I'm thinking about 32GB of DDR5, an air cooler such as the Thermalright Peerless Assassin or Phantom Spirit, and an 850W ATX 3.x PSU. For the case, I'd like a black ATX model with good airflow, tempered glass, and tasteful RGB without looking too flashy.
My target budget is around €2,000–€2,300, with some flexibility if there's a good reason. Am I overspending on any components? Would a Ryzen 7 9800X3D or another CPU make more sense than the 9850X3D with this graphics card, especially for high-FPS Valorant? Is the ASUS motherboard a sensible choice, and is 850W enough or should I consider 1000W? I'd also appreciate specific recommendations for the RAM, cooler, PSU, and case, plus advice on whether it's worth waiting for Black Friday sales.
3 Answers
You probably don’t need the top CPU tier for an RX 9070 XT. A 7800X3D or 9800X3D could be a better-value choice, especially if the performance difference in Valorant is small at your target settings. A Peerless Assassin or Phantom Spirit should be more than adequate for cooling, and a 240mm AIO is an optional alternative rather than a necessity.
For cases, the NZXT H5 is one option worth checking, although you should compare its airflow and included fans with similar models before buying. An 850W PSU should handle the system comfortably.
An 850W supply should be enough for this combination, provided it’s a reputable, modern, fully modular model. If a quality 1000W unit is only a little more expensive, choosing it could give you extra headroom, but it isn’t required.
I’d also compare real Valorant benchmarks before paying the premium for the 9850X3D. A 9800X3D or similar X3D chip may deliver nearly the same experience, and the money saved could go toward other parts. For memory, 32GB is the sensible target, though if prices are unusually high, starting with 16GB or 24GB and upgrading later is possible. Two sticks are preferable for performance, but capacity and price should come first.
I’d stick with AM5 and DDR5 rather than switching to DDR4, since the newer platform gives you a better upgrade path. You don’t need especially fast or expensive memory, though—32GB of a sensible DDR5 kit is enough for this build.
For cooling, a good air cooler is reliable and avoids the extra cost and complexity of an AIO. The Noctua NH-U12A is a quieter, lower-profile option that leaves more room around the memory slots, while the Thermalright models usually offer better value. Fractal Design cases are also worth considering if you want strong airflow and a more understated design.
I wouldn’t delay the entire build solely for Black Friday. Recent sales haven’t always been worthwhile, so buy when you find good prices, while keeping an eye on discounts for the SSD, RAM, PSU, and case.
I’m going to stay with AM5 and DDR5 for the upgrade path and avoid overspending on memory speed. I’ll compare the Fractal, NZXT, and other airflow-focused cases while choosing between a Thermalright cooler and a quieter premium air cooler.
That makes sense. I’ll compare the X3D benchmarks and look at the price difference between quality 850W and 1000W units before deciding.