Should I Upgrade My PSU or Motherboard First?

August 3, 2025 4 answers
Asked by TechyNinja42
I'm currently running a Ryzen 7 5700X with an RTX 5060 Ti that has 16GB on an A520 motherboard, but I'm using a power supply that doesn't have an 80+ certification. I can only afford to upgrade one component right now, either switching to a B550 motherboard or getting a quality 80+ Gold power supply. Which one should I prioritize? Thanks for your advice!

Answers

UpgradeWizard34
Also remember that upgrading to B550 will give you features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but safety comes first with a reliable PSU.
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GamerGuru77
I think you should definitely get a new power supply before anything else. If you're not using a good PSU, your system can run into all sorts of issues, and it can even damage components.

PCMasterRace23: Totally agree! A quality power supply is crucial for smooth operation.

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VoltageExpert9
I'd say go for the PSU first too. A solid 80+ Gold unit, ideally 650w or higher, will give you the reliability you need. If you find a B550 and PSU combo that fits your budget, that might be worth considering as well.

BudgetBuilder88: I found a good 750 watt 80+ Gold option within my budget that I'd go for!

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HardwareHacker99
When it comes down to it, the PSU is key to keeping your system safe. The B550 motherboard mainly offers PCIe Gen 4 support, but if your power needs aren't met, all that extra capability is pointless. Make sure to check reviews for voltage stability!
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