I'm planning a PC build and don't have a dedicated GPU or a monitor yet. The Ryzen 5 5600G has integrated graphics, but the regular 5600 has more cache and PCIe 4.0. I plan to save for an RTX 5060 later.
Is the 5600G a worthwhile compromise so I can use the PC sooner, or should I wait for the 5600 and a graphics card?
For a gaming build with a dedicated card planned, I'd lean toward the regular 5600. It has 32 MB of L3 cache versus 16 MB on the 5600G, and the 5600G is limited to PCIe 3.0. The difference in games depends on the game and GPU, but the 5600 is generally the stronger choice once you add a graphics card.
The RTX 5060 uses eight PCIe lanes, so the PCIe 3.0 limit is worth considering too. I wouldn't assume it makes every game much slower, but it is another compromise you'll keep after the GPU upgrade.
A cheap used graphics card could bridge the gap. Pair the 5600 with something basic like a GT 1030 or RX 550 for display output, then replace it when you're ready. Check the card's outputs against the monitor you buy, and don't count on a very basic card for modern gaming.
The 5600G isn't a bad choice if having a usable machine sooner matters more than squeezing out gaming performance later. Its integrated graphics can get you going without a separate card, and you can still add the RTX 5060 when you have the money. Just go into it knowing the CPU and PCIe tradeoffs remain.
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You'll still need a monitor or another compatible display, though. Integrated graphics don't solve that part of the budget.
I'd price the whole usable setup before buying the CPU. That means the board, RAM, storage, power supply, case, display, keyboard and mouse, plus a graphics card if you choose the 5600.
Buying parts months apart can eat into return windows and warranties before you get to test them. If the wait for a display is going to be long anyway, saving until you can assemble and check the system may make the decision easier.
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Check local prices and the card's condition before relying on this plan. A placeholder only makes sense if it fits the budget.