Hey everyone! I'm in the market for a new PC and due to the current DDR5 RAM shortage, I'm considering starting with DDR4 instead and upgrading later when prices drop. However, I'm unsure about the best CPU and motherboard combinations to use with DDR4. Since this is my first build—aside from a water cooling system that a friend gave me—I could really use your advice!
5 Answers
If you're looking for the best CPU, consider the i9-14900KS with a DDR4 motherboard. Just update the microcode and you're set!
It's important not to base your entire build around the RAM. Focus on your budget and specific needs. It should reflect your personal preferences, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
For good value, I'd recommend going with an Intel i5-14600K. However, there have been some longevity issues with that generation. If you're looking for reliability and something hassle-free, consider the AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D instead.
LGA1700 is a solid platform, plus it gives you the option to upgrade to a DDR5 motherboard down the line. Intel's 14th gen chips outperform the Ryzen 5000 series. By the way, could you share your budget and where you’re located?
The performance difference with DDR5 is minimal—around a 2% speed increase—so you might want to consider if it's worth the extra cost.
Check out this build on PCPartPicker: i5-12600KF paired with a mid-range GPU. That combo provides solid performance for your money. Just make sure your cooling setup has the right mounting bracket for the LGA1700 socket.
Oh right, I'm from France and my budget is around 1200 euros.