I'm in the process of building a PC and need help picking a GPU. I've budgeted $1,500 total and want to spend a bit less if possible. So far, I've spent about $650 on the following components:
- **CPU**: Intel Core i7-12700K 3.6 GHz 12-Core
- **Cooler**: Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB 66.17 CFM
- **Motherboard**: MSI MPG Z690 EDGE WIFI DDR4 ATX LGA1700
- **RAM**: Corsair Vengeance LPX 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3600
- **SSD**: Western Digital WD Blue SN5000 1 TB PCIe 4.0 NVME
- **Case**: Antec C5 ARGB ATX Mid Tower
- **PSU**: MSI MAG A850GL PCIE5 850 W 80+ Gold
I've only ordered the motherboard and RAM so far, so if anything needs adjusting, I'd love to hear suggestions!
4 Answers
What resolution and FPS are you aiming for? Knowing your goals can help narrow down the options.
I recommend going for the RX 9070 XT—it's the best bang for your buck right now, though it might be a bit powerful for the games you mentioned.
It might be overkill for what you're playing. You'd likely do just fine with the 9060 XT or the 9070 for 1440p.
For the best performance per dollar, consider a used RX 9060 XT. It offers great value around your budget.
The 16GB version is solid, but make sure it fits your gaming needs.
Here’s what I’d go with:
[https://pcpartpicker.com/list/78Zdjn](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/78Zdjn)
If you can return the motherboard, that might be a good call to save some cash for the GPU.
Unfortunately, I can’t return it since it was a gift from my cousin who upgraded last year.

I'm currently at 1080p with a refresh rate of 180Hz, looking for 240fps in newer games like Dead by Daylight and Fortnite, plus I might upgrade to 1440p later.