I'm overdue for a PC upgrade since my gaming laptop's motherboard is failing. I'm planning to build a higher-end mid-tier PC and I've got a parts list ready for around $1700 thanks to a nearby Microcenter. I'm eager to hear any suggestions for upgrades that won't break the bank, potential mistakes I might be making, or general advice for a newbie like me who is building their first PC. Here's what I have in mind:
- AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 4.7GHz 8-core processor
- GeForce RTX 5070 12GB video card
- Gigabyte X870 Eagle WiFi7 ATX AM5 motherboard
- Corsair Vengeance RGB 32GB (2x16) DDR5-6000 CL36 memory
- Thermalright Aqua Elite V3 66.17 CFM liquid CPU cooler
- MSI MAG A750GL PCIE5 750W power supply
- Montech XR ATX Mid tower case
- Thermalright 120mm case fans (3 pack)
The only component I'm unsure about is the liquid cooling setup, although a friend of mine hasn't faced any issues with his.
5 Answers
I’d suggest downgrading the CPU and motherboard a bit. Also, try to get RAM that's 6000MHz CL30 instead of CL36 for better performance. You might find an all-in-one case like the Lancool 207 that offers superior cooling. With the money saved, invest more into the GPU. Aim for a 5070 Ti or 7900 XTX if your budget allows.
For $1.7K, you should definitely aim for a 5070 Ti or a 9070 XT. It’ll provide you with a more balanced and powerful build. What kinds of games are you planning to play? If you're into professional esports, a slightly lower CPU paired with a stronger GPU sounds like the right path.
The combination of the 9800X3D and 50 series Nvidia cards could lead to crashes in AAA games. I've had some serious buyer's remorse myself as it's tough to play my games smoothly with that setup.
Honestly, you might want to get a Ti version if you can swing it. Your CPU choice is solid, but make sure your motherboard fits your needs regarding speeds, M.2 slots, and ports. These can really make a difference in your build's performance long term.
You might want to consider downgrading to a Ryzen 7 7700, it's a solid option and can save you some cash. Also, think about upgrading to a 5070 Ti or 9070 XT for better performance. Honestly, you don't really need the X870 motherboard; a B650 should do the job just fine. Prioritize your GPU over everything else.
Thanks a ton for your input, this is exactly the kind of advice I was looking for being inexperienced.
That makes sense! I’m glad to hear it’s common feedback. I actually adjusted my budget down by about $90 and decided to go for the 5070 Ti. I want to make sure it lasts, as my previous laptops have lasted me about 7-10 years.