I'm looking to build a new PC with a 9070 GPU, and I already have 64GB of DDR4 RAM. I'm trying to decide if I should go with an AMD 5800XT and an AM4 motherboard or invest in an AM5 CPU, motherboard, and new DDR5 RAM. Considering how high RAM prices are right now, I'm curious about which option provides better value—using my existing DDR4 setup or switching to AM5 and DDR5.
4 Answers
This question pops up all the time—definitely worth doing a quick search for more insights!
You might want to consider the Intel i7-14700; it's a solid CPU, and you can keep your DDR4 RAM. If you're looking for options, that's definitely worth it. Just a thought!
I’m weighing a combo from Microcenter for a 7600X, 16GB RAM, and motherboard for about $350 or the 14700 with a motherboard for around $415. I might go for the former and sell my old RAM.
For a fresh start, go with AM5! I’m on AM4 right now but won’t upgrade until AM6 comes out.
Honestly, it’s a tricky choice. RAM prices are really high and won't drop much soon. You have to consider the total costs of AM5 (motherboard, CPU, and DDR5) against AM4, where you can use your existing RAM. Just keep in mind that going with AM4 might limit your upgrade path since new options for it are scarce.
If you can still use your DDR4, trying to find some decent used RAM options might help.
That makes sense. My old PC just crashed, and all I have left are SSDs and the RAM, so I’m leaning towards AM5 and selling the old RAM.

Totally back the 14700K. I’ve built several PCs with Gigabyte boards and they work great. It’s a decent option without having to pay a premium for a 5800X3D.