I've been playing games on an Intel i7 6700k with an RTX 2060 and a 1080p 75Hz monitor for a while, which has been great! But today, my motherboard stopped working. I tested all the components with my dad's desktop, and everything seems fine aside from the motherboard. I'm at a crossroads: should I just replace the motherboard to save money, or is it better to invest in a new PC with better specs? I'm 20 and financially stable, with a budget of $850 (excluding extras like a monitor). I'm looking to eventually get a 2K 120Hz screen, but for now, I'd stick with 1080p. Ideally, I'd love to play the latest AAA games at high settings without relying on DLSS. Also, what's a good plan for my current broken setup?
4 Answers
If your current RAM is DDR4, I'd also suggest going for a new motherboard and CPU combo—maybe an AM4 board with a 5600 or 5600X. That way, you can upgrade your GPU down the road instead of doing everything at once. It gives you flexibility without the need to juggle compatibility issues right away.
I found a potential option for $860 (negotiable): it includes an R5 3600 CPU, a B450M motherboard, 32GB of RAM, and an RTX 4060. Sounds like a decent deal, but be sure to check if it's in USD because prices can vary. If it is, you might want to negotiate further since some of those brands aren't super popular or well-regarded.
Honestly, I think you should just upgrade the motherboard and CPU for now. You can go with an Intel Core i5-12600KF paired with a B660 or B760 motherboard; just make sure your RAM is compatible (DDR4). This way, you can save on spending right now and focus on upgrading your GPU later when you have more time and funds.
Upgrading to something like a 12400 with a B760 motherboard and maybe an RX 9060 XT could be a worthwhile investment. If you're eyeing a new build long-term, it’s definitely on the table since prices are likely to rise.
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