I'm building my next PC and need some advice. I've got two options for CPUs and motherboards that are just $20 apart:
Combo 1: 9800X3D with ASUS B650E-E TUF Gaming WiFi AM5 for $679.
Combo 2: 9850X3D with ASUS X870-P Prime WiFi AM5 for $699.
I'm planning to pair whichever I choose with an RTX 5070 Ti and the fastest 2TB M.2 SSD I can find. What do you think? Is the extra $20 worth it for the 9850, or should I stick with the 9800?
5 Answers
If the goal is gaming, both CPUs will do just fine, but that $20 difference shouldn’t hold you back. At least with the 9850, you're investing in a better motherboard which could help with upgrades later.
I went with the 9850 and I think it's worth it, mostly for future proofing. You might regret not getting the better model later, especially if you're planning to keep this build for a while.
I'd just get the 9850X3D, it seems like a no-brainer at that price difference. And hey, if you're not on a strict budget, the future-proofing pays off!
If you're looking at Microcenter bundles, the 9850 comes with a better motherboard than the 9800 combo. I'd say go for the 9850—it's only $20 more and you'll get a little better performance!
Exactly! That's the same combo I'm considering, so it makes the 9850 bundle pretty attractive.
Honestly, spending the extra $20 on the 9850 is worth it. They’re almost identical in performance, but the 9850 has a slightly higher boost clock. If it's just $20, I'd say go for it!
Agreed! Plus, if cooling is a concern, the 9850 can run a bit hotter, so a better motherboard will help manage that.