I'm planning to build my first PC and I'm seeking advice on my proposed build. I've been hesitant to build my own because it seems complex, but I've found that many pre-built options, especially from places like Costco, use mismatched parts. I want a mid-level machine that will be a solid upgrade from my MSI gaming laptop, which has 16GB DDR4 RAM, an i7 11800h processor, and a 3050 GPU.
Here's what I'm thinking for my build:
- **CPU:** AMD Ryzen 7 7600x
- **GPU:** Gigabyte Gaming Radeon RX 9060 XT 16GB
- **Cooler:** Corsair NAUTILUS 240 RS ARGB
- **Motherboard:** MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX M5
- **RAM:** Corsair RGB 16GB DDR5 - 5200 (I wanted 32GB but RAM prices are high)
- **Storage:** Crucial P310 1TB M.2 NVMe (I also have an old Seagate drive from my laptop)
- **PSU:** MSI Mag A850GL 850W Gold Certified ATX
- **Case:** NZXT H5 Flow
I want to keep my budget around £1300 (about $1700 USD or $2300 CAD). Does this build look good? What can I improve while staying within budget?
1 Answer
You might want to consider going with a Micro ATX motherboard; they're usually cheaper. For the cooler, look into brands like Thermaltake or Be Quiet instead of the Corsair option, which can be pricier. Not to mention, the difference between MSI's Micro and ATX boards isn't huge, so it makes sense to explore other brands that might fit your needs better.
Thanks for the tip! I found a more affordable cooler, but I was drawn to the Corsair because of its aesthetics and reputation. As for the motherboard, I’ll definitely check out some alternatives. I appreciate the advice!