I'm planning my first PC build after my previous computer was damaged during shipping, and I'd like some advice before buying anything. My budget is about $1,600 CAD. I'm considering a Ryzen 5 7600X, Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 ATX motherboard, 16GB of DDR5 RAM initially, an RX 7700 XT or possibly an RX 7600 XT, a 1TB NVMe SSD, a 650W-or-larger power supply, an airflow-focused white case, and an affordable 24–28-inch 144Hz monitor.
I specifically want the AM5 platform and a motherboard with four memory slots for easier upgrades, but I've heard that using all four DDR5 slots may cause problems. My main games are Overwatch, Minecraft, The Sims 4, and Roblox, and I'll also use the computer for schoolwork and research. I'm not looking to overspend on a graphics card or 32GB of RAM right now if I can upgrade later. Are the CPU, motherboard, and GPU choices sensible for my needs? Should I buy 2x8GB, 1x16GB, or something else for memory? I'd also appreciate recommendations for a good white airflow case.
3 Answers
You may find good value in used graphics cards such as an RTX 3070 or 3080, but inspect the card carefully and confirm its condition before buying. For a new build, though, the RX 7600 XT should already be plenty for Overwatch, Minecraft, The Sims 4, and Roblox at 1080p. I’d spend the savings on reliable power delivery, enough storage, and a good-airflow case rather than chasing a high-end GPU.
Avoid planning around four DDR5 sticks. On AM5, filling all four slots often forces much lower memory speeds and can cause instability. The better options are 2x16GB now, or 2x8GB now with the intention of replacing that kit with 2x16GB later. A single 16GB stick can work as a temporary upgrade path, but dual-channel memory is preferable when possible.
The B650 board and AM5 platform are good choices for longevity. For the games you listed, an RX 7700 XT is more performance than you really need at 1080p, so an RX 7600 XT—or another similarly priced midrange card—could leave more money for memory and storage. A quality 650W Gold power supply from a reputable manufacturer is a safer choice than an inexpensive Bronze model. For the monitor, a 24-inch 1080p 144–165Hz display is usually the best value; 27-inch 1080p can look noticeably soft. For the case, look for a white model with a mesh front panel and at least two or three included fans.
For your workload, I’d prioritize two matching memory modules rather than buying four smaller sticks later. You could start with 2x8GB and replace them with 2x16GB when needed, though 2x16GB now would be the simplest long-term option if it fits the budget. A single 1x16GB stick is also an upgrade-friendly temporary setup, but it won’t perform as well as a matched pair in the meantime.
That’s really helpful, thanks! It sounds like I can save quite a bit by choosing a less powerful GPU and planning the memory upgrade differently.