I've never built a PC before, and I'm eager to upgrade for 1440p gaming. I'm putting together a mid to high range build and would love your feedback on whether I'm making any major mistakes with the components I've selected below. I'm particularly interested in performance, compatibility of the components, and ease of building – I want to avoid any headaches down the line! I opted for a non-AIO cooler since my CPU has a low TDP and should be easy to cool. I'm open to any suggestions or improvements you might have. Thanks a lot! Here's my part list:
- **CPU:** AMD Ryzen 5 9600X 3.9 GHz 6-Core Processor
- **CPU Cooler:** Noctua NH-D9L 46.44 CFM CPU Cooler
- **Motherboard:** Gigabyte B850M D3HP Micro ATX AM5 Motherboard
- **Memory:** G.Skill Flare X5 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL36
- **Storage:** Samsung 990 Pro 2 TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD
- **Video Card:** PowerColor Hellhound OC Radeon RX 9070 XT 16 GB
- **Case:** Deepcool CH370 MicroATX Mid Tower
- **Power Supply:** SeaSonic FOCUS Gold 650W 80+ Gold Certified Semi-modular ATX Power Supply
- **Total Price:** €1671.26
3 Answers
Based on what you've picked, I’d suggest switching to an 8-core CPU like the Ryzen 7 9700X. It’s a bit more expensive, but for gaming, it can really shine. As for your GPU, if you're considering features like ray tracing, check out the 5070Ti if it's within about €100 of the 9070XT – it has better overall performance. But honestly, the 9070XT is solid too, so don’t stress if you stick with that!
You might want to consider upgrading to an 850W PSU. It sounds like overkill for now since you're under 500W, but it leaves room for future upgrades or overclocking. It's just safer to have that extra capacity for headroom later on! Also, I noticed your RAM is CL36 – if you can swing it, CL30 would offer better performance. Just some thoughts!
Got it! I wasn’t expecting to overclock, but I see the benefit of the higher wattage for future upgrades. Thanks for the tip on the RAM!
For your cooler, the case allows for larger coolers, so you don’t need the compact 92mm fan. Consider something like the Thermalright Phantom Spirit, which is bigger and generally better for about the same price. It could improve your cooling efficiency!
I checked around for the Phantom Spirit, but it's hard to find for a good price. Would a Peerless Assassin cooler work as an alternative?
I had the 9700X on my list but didn't pull the trigger due to the extra cost. What do you think is the main advantage of that CPU over the 9600X? And yeah, the 5070Ti is a bit pricier, so I think I’ll just stick with the 9070XT.