I'm a first-time PC builder, and I'm looking to create a setup that can last around 7 to 10 years for gaming, 3D design, and game/app development. Here's the configuration I'm considering: AMD Ryzen 5 9600X, ASUS TUF GeForce RTX 5070, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and 4TB of storage (2TB SSD and 2TB HDD). Should I consider upgrading to the 9700X for an extra £100? I'm not interested in 4K gaming but would like to do some VR development. Would the RX 9070 be a better choice over the RTX 5070 due to its higher VRAM? I've also heard that Nvidia GPUs tend to be more future-proof. I'm looking for suggestions on parts that could be cheaper or better alternatives, and any potential hidden costs I should be aware of when building, like tools or accessories needed. Sorry if some of these questions seem a bit naive!
3 Answers
For the long haul, 7-10 years is a stretch with any build. The Ryzen 5 9600X and RTX 5070 should be decent for now, but you might want to consider something like the 9800X3D and 5090 if you're looking for premium longevity. But honestly, they might be overkill for your usage. If you can stay around your budget of £1500, I’d say go for the 9700X for better future-proofing!
While the specs you're looking at are decent, aiming for longevity in gaming is tough. I would recommend focusing on a solid mid-range setup and expect maybe 5 years of good performance. Updating your motherboard BIOS will help with compatibility when moving to the 9000 series CPUs, so keep that in mind. If you're willing to upgrade later, you can make changes as needed.
Got it! So 5 years sounds more realistic. I just want to ensure it can handle upcoming titles without degrading too quickly.
Assuming a budget of £1500, I'd suggest a build like this: Ryzen 5 9600X, 32 GB DDR5 RAM, and the RX 9070 XT for VR support over the 5070. It's a bit pricier, but you’ll get better performance. Just make sure to check for a good CPU cooler that fits the Ryzen 7 if you consider upgrading to that later!
Thanks for the suggestion! What cooler would you recommend for the 9700X, assuming I decide to upgrade?
I get that! Just trying to avoid spending too much for something I might not use. Thanks for the heads up!