I'm considering upgrading my current AM4 setup, which has a Ryzen 3600X and an Asus Rog Strix B450-i board. I've been looking at getting a B550 motherboard and either a 5800XT or 5900XT, but I've found some AM5 bundles that include 32GB of DDR5 RAM at a good price. The catch is that these bundles come with mATX motherboards, but my case can only fit mini-ITX boards. I'd have to sell the included motherboard to buy a new ITX board or swap out my case for an mATX one. Here are the bundles:
$1069 for the AMD R7 7800X3D CPU + ASUS TUF GAMING B650-E WIFI Motherboard + T-Force 32GB D5 6000MHz CL30 RAM.
$799 for the AMD R5 7600X3D CPU + GIGABYTE B650 EAGLE AX Motherboard + T-Force 32GB D5 6000MHz CL30 RAM.
$799 for the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X CPU + GIGABYTE B850M EAGLE WF6E Motherboard + T-Force 32GB D5 6000MHz CL30 RAM.
Alternatively, my AM4 upgrade options are:
$528 for 5800XT + Gigabyte B550i Aorus Pro AX.
$648 for 5900XT + Gigabyte B550i Aorus Pro AX.
I primarily use my rig for software development, machine learning, and video/photo editing. Gaming isn't a priority, but I play some light games and use emulators. If I were to lean towards a bundle, I'd prefer the one with the 8-core CPU, like the 7800X3D. My main concern is whether it's worth dealing with the hassle of reselling the motherboard just to get the RAM at a better price.
3 Answers
If you’re mainly using it for work and some light gaming, the AM4 options could actually serve you just fine and save you some cash. But if you're set on grabbing those bundles, just know selling a motherboard can be tricky, especially if you're looking to recoup costs later.
If you're like me and live near a Microcenter, those bundle deals are tempting! But for Canada, you’ve got fewer options. It might be worth considering an mATX case because they allow more flexibility and won’t limit you as much for future upgrades. Plus, if you’re looking at that 7800X3D, it really packs a punch for productivity.
I agree! The benefits of having a slightly larger case for better airflow and future graphics card upgrades is definitely worth it.
Have you thought about just updating the BIOS on your current motherboard instead of a whole new upgrade? If you go with AM5, that 9600X bundle seems the most cost-effective for your work needs too!
I considered that, but I wanted the added benefits of PCIe 4.0 and the improved Wi-Fi. I think the AM5 upgrade gives me more long-term options.
Yeah, I’ve heard selling components can be hit or miss. Good luck with your decision!