I recently took my PC to a repair shop because it wouldn't boot up, and they discovered that the previous shop had used way too much thermal paste when they installed my CPU, which resulted in it getting damaged. Luckily, my motherboard is still okay, but my 9700X CPU is beyond saving. I spent nearly $200 for the service and $300 on the CPU itself, which is a lot for me. I have receipts for everything, including documentation from the new shop about the issues they found. Now, I'm looking for advice on what CPU to get next. I want something that lasts without breaking the bank. I know the 7800X3D is great but it's a hefty $360, and I had trouble with heat on the 9700X. I found the 9600X for $200, which has 6 cores and is slightly less powerful than the 9700X. However, I'm concerned about its future-proofing and performance, especially since some upcoming games are recommending 8 cores. Can anyone give me insights on CPU choices and longevity?
4 Answers
If you're looking to get the maximum lifespan from your new CPU, aim for a higher-end model rather than just going for the cheapest. Getting something that's overkill now means it’ll serve you longer without needing an immediate upgrade.
If you're considering value, check out the 7500F, 7600, or 9600X—they all have potential for future upgrades. Just be wary of the Ryzen 9000 known issues with some motherboards. Alternatively, look into the Intel i5-14600K for a solid balance of performance and cost.
Excess thermal paste typically won't ruin a CPU since it's non-conductive. If your CPU died in three months, it's likely due to a random failure. You should consider requesting an RMA to get a replacement instead of focusing on the past repair issues.
Yeah, the signs you mentioned, like having trouble with monitor signals, sometimes indicate deeper issues. It’s worth investigating before settling.
Honestly, the 7800X3D should keep things cooler than the 9700X and perform well in most games. Keep in mind, future-proofing isn't always a guarantee. Sometimes, it's smarter to buy a cheaper CPU now and save for a better upgrade later on.
Just a heads up, though—some thermal pastes can be conductive, and if the paste got into the CPU pins, that could lead to problems. Make sure you check what kind they used. I've heard that Arctic Silver can be a culprit in some cases.