I'm looking to upgrade my PC but I'm not sure which components need changing. My goal is to play games on settings that are better than the lowest. My budget is limited, and I'm not very knowledgeable about PC building, as I bought this one from a friend. Here's a breakdown of what I currently have:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 3.6 GHz
- Motherboard: MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX
- Memory: 16 GB DDR4-3200
- Storage: 240 GB SSD + 2 TB HDD
- GPU: MSI GAMING X GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER 6 GB
- Power Supply: 500W
- Monitors: Two 23.6" 1080p displays
- Other peripherals: Headset, etc.
I'm trying to prioritize upgrades that will have the most impact. Any suggestions would be really appreciated!
2 Answers
When it comes to upgrades, consider a few key components:
- **CPU**: The Ryzen 5600 is a solid upgrade. Just remember, you'll need to update the BIOS before you install it. Don't bother with the 5600x; the performance gain isn’t worth the extra cost.
- **RAM**: Upgrading to 32GB (like 2x16GB) is a smart move. It’ll run smoother than just adding another set of 8GB sticks.
- **Storage**: Switching to an NVMe SSD over your current SATA SSD could really speed things up.
- **GPU**: This depends on your budget. You could look at something like the RTX 3060 or even a used Radeon 6000 series if they fit your price bracket.
Keep in mind that your power supply might not be sufficient for more powerful components.
Good luck!
First off, I’d recommend replacing your power supply—it’s not reliable. Look for something in the 650W or 750W range. The **MSI MAG A-GL** series is a great affordable option.
For graphics, upgrading to a newer GPU like the 5060ti or 9060xt would be a fantastic leap in performance, likely doubling what you have now.
Additionally, swapping your RAM for a 2x16GB kit can improve performance too, especially if your games use a lot of memory. Just avoid mixing different kits unless they match perfectly!
Got it! Is there a significant difference between adding 2x8GB setups vs. going for a 2x16GB kit?
Thanks for the tips! I was mainly eyeing a GPU upgrade and possibly the power supply.