Hey everyone! I'm about to make my first desktop build and would love your thoughts before I finalize my purchase. I'm currently using a laptop, but it's not cutting it for my work in game development and art, which is basically gaming too! Here's what I'm planning:
- **CPU**: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.0GHz, 96MB cache) – ~$335
- **Motherboard**: ASUS TUF Gaming B650M-E WIFI (mATX, AM5, DDR5) – ~$157
- **RAM**: Corsair Vengeance RGB 32GB (2x16GB) DDR5 6000MHz CL36 – ~$130
- **Storage**: WD Blue SN5000 1TB NVMe Gen4 SSD (5150/4900 MB/s) – ~$75
- **GPU**: Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT 16GB – ~$510
- **PSU**: Corsair RM750e 750W (80+ Gold, Fully Modular) – ~$118
- **Case**: Corsair 4000D Airflow TG White (Mid Tower) – ~$62
- **Cooler**: Xigmatek EPIX II RGB – ~$18
- **Monitor**: AsRock CL27FFA (27" IPS, FHD, 120Hz, 1ms) – ~$98
- **Keyboard**: Machenike K500B-B87 Wired Mechanical (Red Switch) – ~$24
Total: $1471, well within my $1520 budget. This will be mainly for gaming and a bit of productivity. I feel good about the RX 7800 XT and 7800X3D combo, but I have some questions:
1. Is the Xigmatek cooler sufficient for the 7800X3D?
2. Should I be concerned about the 1080p 120Hz monitor for this build?
A shop guy suggested a cheaper PSU and a different cooler, which could save me some cash for other components. He raised some doubts about the CPU being suitable for work, but since my gaming and work overlap, I think it'll work fine. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
3 Answers
Considering your needs, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a solid choice; it'll handle both gaming and your game dev tasks really well. Just keep in mind that for a cooler, the Xigmatek might be on the lighter side, depending on how much you plan to push the CPU. You could look at something with a bit more power if you want to play it safe!
Your motherboard is a bit weak for the 7800X3D, I'd suggest upgrading to something like an ATX board with a better VRM setup. Keeping an eye on airflow with additional fans will also help keep things cool. As for the PSU, don't skimp on it—your current one seems fine, but always better to have some headroom for future upgrades!
Good call on the motherboard! I'll shop around for something sturdier. Thanks!
Regarding the monitor, while 27-inch FHD is nice, I'd recommend looking at a 27-inch QHD for a bit more oomph in visuals. The VA panels tend to have better contrast, especially for games. It'll make a big difference visually during long sessions!
That’s a great point! I’ll definitely consider a QHD option.
Thanks for confirming! I'll keep an eye on cooler specs.