I have about $300 CAD available for an upgrade. My current setup includes a 1080p 180Hz monitor, a Ryzen 5 7600X, an RTX 5060 Ti with 16GB of VRAM, and 16GB of DDR5 memory. I use the computer for 3D animation and mostly play Apex Legends and heavily modded Minecraft with large world generation. I already have a second, inexpensive monitor. Should I spend the money on more RAM, a better monitor, or a CPU upgrade?
4 Answers
The monitor is probably the most noticeable gaming upgrade, especially since you already have a fast 1080p display and a second screen. If you can find a good 1440p monitor within budget, it would give you a sharper image and more usable desktop space. A budget 1440p OLED might be worth considering if one is available at that price.
I would leave the CPU for last. The 7600X is still a capable processor, and replacing it probably would not make a major difference with a 5060 Ti. Check your RAM usage while working first; if animation projects regularly push you near 16GB, memory should take priority. Otherwise, put the money toward the monitor.
Since you already have two monitors, I would not buy another screen just for the sake of having one. A higher-resolution main display could still be a worthwhile upgrade, but 32GB of RAM is the safer choice if your animation software or Minecraft modpacks are running close to your current memory limit.
Upgrade to 32GB of DDR5 first. Two sticks of 16GB will give you more breathing room for 3D animation and heavily modded Minecraft, where 16GB can become limiting. It is also a relatively inexpensive upgrade compared with replacing the monitor.
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