I'm transitioning from a large case to a more compact SFF Cooler Master NR200 P MAX for my build. Currently, I have a Ryzen 7 5800x3D with an MSI Suprim X RTX 3080 and 32GB DDR4 RAM at 3200MHz. Since I'm planning to switch to a Mini ITX motherboard, I'm wondering if it's worth selling my current CPU and RAM to upgrade to an AM5 motherboard with a 9800x3D CPU and 32GB DDR5 RAM. I mostly play at 1440p and occasionally use extra displays at 1080p. I'd like to hear your thoughts on whether the performance gains would justify the costs, especially since my 3080 still performs well with my current setup.
5 Answers
What games are you into? The 9800x3D might be overkill for 1440p. I just made a similar jump from a 5600x3D to the 9800x3D, and if you're near a MicroCenter, their bundles could help save cash—around $680 for a 9800x3D, motherboard, and DDR5. You might be able to sell the motherboard too since you want to go with SFF.
I've been using the 5800x3D on an ASRock B550M ITX and it's been fantastic. I suggest picking up a board like that, which you can find in the $100-120 range. With RAM prices the way they are, holding onto what you have for now seems smart. I consistently hit 120 fps at 1440p in most games.
Thanks! I'm eyeing the GIGABYTE B550I AORUS PRO AX for my new setup.
Unless you can snag a good deal at a MicroCenter, I wouldn't recommend the AM5 route due to the outrageous DDR5 prices. AM4 motherboards are really affordable right now, so I’d suggest getting what you need for the ITX build and only upgrade the CPU if your performance dips.
I made the switch from a 5800x3D to a Mini ITX setup a while back and made some cash selling my old parts, which allowed me to upgrade to a 9800x3D and DDR5 RAM without breaking the bank. If you're okay going with an AliExpress option or secondhand for AM4, that's worth considering. However, be careful with AM5 costs; it can really add up with motherboards and RAM prices. Unless you're on lower resolutions or doing CPU-heavy gaming, staying with your current parts might be the way to go.
Right now, DDR5 is pretty pricey. I think your current specs are solid, so I would just grab a new ITX motherboard rather than splurging for the upgrade.
Thanks a lot for the reply!
Yeah, looks like the 5800x3D + 3080 can handle everything at 1440p!