I'm building a PC with a budget of around $4,600 focused on both gaming and workstation tasks. Here's my current parts list:
- **CPU**: Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
- **CPU Cooler**: Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE 66.17 CFM
- **Motherboard**: Gigabyte Z890 AORUS MASTER ATX LGA1851
- **RAM**: G.Skill Trident Z5 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6400 CL32
- **SSD (OS/Apps)**: Samsung 9100 PRO 1 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 5.0 X4 NVME
- **SSD (Games/Files)**: Samsung 9100 PRO 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 5.0 X4 NVME
- **GPU**: MSI VENTUS 3X OC GeForce RTX 5070 Ti 16 GB
- **Case**: Lian Li LANCOOL 216 RGB ATX Mid Tower (White)
- **Power Supply**: SeaSonic VERTEX GX-1000 1000 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX
- **Monitor**: Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCDS 31.5" 3840 x 2160 165 Hz
- **Headphones**: Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X
- **UPS**: CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD
Total cost is approximately $4,613.14 (prices may vary locally). A little background: I prefer Intel for editing; it generally performs better for production tasks, though it holds its own in gaming too. I'm capping FPS at 120 because I record gameplay at 4K60 for YouTube.
I did consider separating SSDs to manage performance, especially for OBS recording, and I'm hoping for tips on compatibility and any suggestions to cut costs without affecting performance. Thanks!
2 Answers
Hey! First off, nice build! Just to clarify, when you say 'your local area,' are you in a different country? Also, the SSDs seem pricey unless you specifically need PCIe 5 drives. If you're in the U.S., consider optimizing the build. For example, you could double the RAM to 64GB and upgrade the GPU to an RTX 5080, all while staying under your budget. Here's an example of what I mean: [PCPartPicker Part List](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/8sZQV4). Let me know if you need help with any specific parts!
You might want to consider simplifying your storage. Instead of having two smaller SSDs, how about using a single 4TB drive? This could significantly streamline your setup and cut costs. Check out this option: [Crucial T710 4TB SSD](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/VMXMnQ/crucial-t710-4-tb-m2-2280-pcie-50-x4-nvme-solid-state-drive-ct4000t710ssd8).
I wanted to keep my OS and OBS recording separate from the games to avoid any performance hits. Plus, in case of drive failure, I’d rather keep personal files safe. But thanks for the suggestion!
Thanks for the insight! Swapping SSD brands to lower the costs sounds good. I might keep the RAM and GPU as they are and look into those cheaper drive options!