My current PC has an Intel i7-6700K, 32 GB of DDR4 memory, and an RTX 4060. After nearly ten years, I want to replace the CPU, but high memory prices are making the decision harder.
I could choose a DDR4-compatible platform such as AM4 or LGA1700, which would let me reuse my current RAM and keep the upgrade relatively affordable. However, that would mean investing in an older platform with limited future upgrades. The other option is moving to AM5 and buying DDR5, which costs considerably more but should remain useful for longer. In my area, 32 GB of DDR5 costs around €500, roughly as much as a Core i5-14400, motherboard, and cooler combined.
Would it still make sense to choose an older DDR4 platform, or is it better to pay more for AM5 and a longer upgrade path?
4 Answers
LGA1700 is a reasonable middle ground if pricing is better where you live. Some processors, including the Core i5-14400, are available with either DDR4 or DDR5 motherboards, so you could reuse your current memory and upgrade the platform without immediately buying expensive DDR5. Just remember that LGA1700 has little meaningful upgrade room beyond its current generation.
Because your current CPU is already around ten years old, I would lean toward AM5 rather than putting a lot of money into another aging platform. A Ryzen 5 7500X3D-class system with 32 GB of DDR5-6000 gives you strong gaming performance and room to upgrade the CPU later. The initial cost is higher, but the platform should have a much longer useful life.
Before comparing CPU prices alone, include the motherboard, cooler, and memory in the total. Your existing DDR4 is also relatively slow by modern standards, so it may limit a newer processor somewhat. For a budget-focused build, a Ryzen 5 5600 or 5500X3D with a B550 board is perfectly sensible. If you can afford the memory cost without sacrificing the rest of the system, AM5 is the better long-term choice.
If you want the cheapest meaningful upgrade, AM4 is still very good value. A Ryzen 5 5600 with a suitable motherboard can be inexpensive, and a 5500X3D is another option if gaming performance is the priority. You can keep your existing DDR4 kit, case, and possibly other components. I would avoid paying a premium for a 5800X3D, though—at that point, AM5 becomes more appealing.
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