Hey everyone! I'm trying to build my first gaming PC and need some help with choosing a GPU. I want something that will allow me to play games comparable to what I'd experience on a console like a PS5 or Xbox Series X. My budget for the whole setup is around NZD 1,500. I'm not looking for 4K gaming and I'm still learning about all the GPU specs. I've been looking at a few models like the Arc580, 4060, and 3060 12GB. Should I go with a newer GPU or stick to an older one? How important is VRAM? What are the differences between brands? Any advice would really be appreciated! Thanks!
2 Answers
Hey! Just to clear up, when you say you want to play games on console, do you mean you want the same performance as something like the PS5 or Xbox Series X? And yes, $1.5k for the whole PC makes it a bit tricky for high-end GPUs. In Australia, I’d suggest looking at options like the 5600 with the 9060XT 16GB for the best bang for your buck. The 3060 isn't great, and the 4060 lacks VRAM. Also, check out this build I made to give you an idea: [PC Part Picker Link].
If your $1.5k budget is for the entire PC, I think the 9060XT (especially the 16GB version) is a solid choice, and it’ll serve you well. If you're looking for something even more affordable, the Arc580 is decent too. Just a heads-up: the 3060 is pretty old and the 4060 has similar power, so I wouldn't recommend those. VRAM is becoming more crucial—while 8GB is okay for 1080p gaming now, you might struggle with newer titles as demand goes up. Modern cards have better features like ray tracing and frame generation which help extend their life for gaming. If you're willing to explore the used market, a 3080 could be a great fit if you can find one in your area!
Thanks for breaking that down! Just to clarify, when you mention the 9060XT, are you talking about the 16GB or the 8GB version? And sorry about the used market, it's tough to find GPUs here in NZ!