I'm building a PC with a budget of around $1200 and have chosen some parts already. You can check my build here: [PCPartPicker](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/QKBbgn). I still need a motherboard, but I keep running into compatibility issues related to the CPU's BIOS. I'm unsure if the CPU is the cause of the compatibility problems.
Additionally, I've heard some negative feedback about the XFX GPU. If anyone has recommendations for better options, I'd love to hear them. I'm also considering a monitor and am willing to stretch my budget by about $100 if necessary. Any insights on my parts or suggestions that could help me avoid mistakes would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Your build looks great! It can be tricky trying to find the right motherboard without running into compatibility snags. I updated some components to optimize your build. Instead of the cooler you picked, I recommend the ID-Cooling A620 black for a sleek look at a lower price, plus it offers great performance. I also swapped the power supply for a more cost-effective and reliable option.
For the GPU, since you're not thrilled with XFX, try the Sapphire Pulse model; it’s known for its high quality within the AMD lineup. To keep costs down, consider the Ryzen 7700x since it offers comparable performance to the 9060XT but could save you some cash. I found a great motherboard, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI, which has excellent features and supports future upgrades. Check out my revised build [here](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/8HsZyW), totaling around $1270. Hope this helps!
If you're near a Microcenter, definitely check out their deals, as they often have great prices on components. If not, don't stress too much over budget allocations. For family use and light gaming, you could tone down on the GPU and maybe invest in a better CPU or monitor instead. Just make sure that whatever parts you get, the motherboard is compatible. Have fun with your build!
If you're focusing on a graphics card, it's generally good practice to allocate about half of your budget to it. For a build in your range, the Radeon 9060XT might not be the best fit, especially if you're aiming for performance beyond $800-$900. Consider going with an Intel setup for better price-to-performance, like the i5-13400F paired with an RTX 5070, which also allows you to get a decent 2TB SSD. If you're worried about upgrading later, Intel can provide a solid path forward. Check out my suggested build [here](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/yjvnv4). This combination offers a balanced experience for general use and gaming.
For the AMD route, I suggest a quick refresh rate monitor, which pairs nicely with a powerful CPU to achieve higher frame rates, ensuring you're maximizing your overall performance. Also, look for motherboards that don’t require BIOS updates; it’ll save you some headaches down the line!
Thanks for the advice! I was under the impression that I should split the budget evenly between the GPU and CPU. Since I won’t be playing super heavy games, is there a specific GPU you’d suggest to keep costs manageable while still getting decent performance?