I'm planning my first PC build in Brazil, where component prices are high, so I'd like to spread the cost out. I'm considering buying the core system now and adding a dedicated graphics card in a few months. The Ryzen 5 7600 has basic integrated graphics, which should be enough for desktop use until then. Gaming during that period isn't important because I already have a PS5; the eventual goal is to play Elden Ring at a locked 60 FPS, mainly for PC mods.
Current parts list:
- CPU: Ryzen 5 7600
- Motherboard: ASRock B850M Pro RS, AM5, microATX, DDR5
- Memory: 16GB DDR5-6000 in one stick, with plans to add a second stick later for 32GB dual-channel
- Storage: 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD, with more storage planned later
- Case: Rise Mode Z3 Glass
- Power supply: XPG Kyber 850W 80+ Gold
- Future GPU: RTX 5060 8GB or RX 9060 XT 16GB
I'd like advice on whether buying the system in stages makes sense, whether the 7600's integrated graphics will be adequate for light use, and whether one 16GB memory stick is reasonable or if I should prioritize dual-channel memory immediately. I'm also wondering which future GPU offers better value for a 60-FPS Elden Ring target and whether any parts should be changed to make the build more upgrade-friendly without wasting money.
5 Answers
Buying the base system first is perfectly reasonable if you’re not expecting to play demanding games before the dedicated GPU arrives. The 7600’s integrated graphics are mainly for display output and light use, though older or less demanding games can run at low settings. Elden Ring is not something I’d plan to play comfortably on it.
The Ryzen 5 7600 is a good choice for this plan because its small iGPU doesn’t come with the major CPU compromises that some older integrated-graphics processors had. AM5 also leaves you a reasonable CPU upgrade path. Just keep in mind that one 16GB stick runs in single-channel mode, so performance will be lower than with two sticks. If the price difference is manageable, 2x8GB is faster immediately; otherwise, 1x16GB is a sensible temporary compromise, provided you buy a matching second module later.
An 850W supply is more than you need for this class of build. A reliable 650W or 750W Gold unit would likely save money while still leaving room for a midrange future GPU. Don’t choose a cheaper unit just for the wattage rating, though—quality, protections, warranty, and the appropriate modern GPU power connector matter more than having excessive capacity.
The main thing I’d reconsider is timing rather than compatibility. Buying parts months before the graphics card can make warranty periods expire and prices change, so if you can save and purchase everything together, that’s usually safer. If you need a working computer now, the staged approach is still valid. Just check motherboard BIOS support, make sure the case fits the eventual card, and consider a larger SSD because 500GB fills quickly once Windows and a few modern games are installed.
For the eventual graphics card, the RX 9060 XT 16GB sounds like the stronger value if the price gap is reasonable. The extra VRAM gives it more breathing room for newer games, while Elden Ring at 60 FPS should be a comfortable target with either card at sensible settings. Resolution matters, though: at 1440p, the Radeon should have plenty of performance, especially with upscaling, while at 1080p both options are more than appropriate for a locked 60 FPS target.
That’s fine for me. Gaming during the waiting period isn’t a priority since I already have a PS5; the PC version will mainly be for mods once I add the graphics card.