Part Recommendations

[ridlee]

I'm currently planning to upgrade my PC to achieve better overall performance for both gaming on high demand games like forza 5 and school-related tasks, particularly as I prepare for the HSC in a few years. While my current setup has served me well, it's based on an older LGA 1151 platform and is beginning to show its limitations with newer applications and games.

I already have a GALAX GeForce RTX 2070 Super, (not nvidia this is the one from 2020)which is a strong GPU, and I want to ensure my new components won’t bottleneck its performance. My goal is to build a system that balances well with my existing graphics card to deliver smooth, high-quality gameplay while also being capable of handling productivity tasks, schoolwork, and multitasking efficiently.

Since I'm upgrading on a tight budget, I’m looking for cost-effective parts that offer strong performance without unnecessary extras. The focus is on value, compatibility with my GPU, and long-term usability as I move through my senior years of school.

[johnnyenglish]

Hi there

I can't really advise you to go AM4 at the moment but it could be the more cost effective upgrade, as parts are really cheap and the 5700X3D, if you can find one, is the MVP for AM4. (the 5800X3D is long sold out....)

You could get away with this for as little as 400-500, CPU+DDR4+Board+Cooler.

If you want a more future proof system, then the 7600X is generally the option but then 500 will barely be enough as AM5 boards and DDR5 ram are more expensive.

Good Luck

[elstaci]

Have you thought about upgrading your intel processor and Ram on your motherboard unless you have a very old motherboard and CPU PC.

What is the Make & Model of your Intel Motherboard?

The LGA 1151 isn't that old of a platform. Found this website that shows which Intel CPUs are compatible with that motherboard and RAM type and Speed: https://cpu-socket.com/cpu-list-lga-1151/

NOTE: You first need to go to your Motherboard's CPU SUPPORT LIST  and QVL LIST for RAM to see which Intel CPUs your specific Motherboard supports with BIOS updates.

So depending on your Intel Motherboard's CPU SUPPORT LIST you should be able to upgrade to a much more powerful and faster Intel CPU and RAM Memory.

It might be less expensive by upgrading your Intel Processor and RAM System Memory.

[jhon789]

Hi ridlee,

You're making a smart move upgrading your system now, especially with school and demanding games in mind. With your RTX 2070 Super still performing well, a solid CPU upgrade like the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 or Intel Core i5-12400F would pair nicely without causing bottlenecks. These processors offer excellent performance for both gaming and productivity, and they’re relatively affordable.

If you match one with a budget-friendly B550 or B660 motherboard and at least 16GB of DDR4 RAM, you’ll end up with a well-balanced, future-proof system that can handle multitasking, schoolwork, and high-demand titles like Forza 5 without issues.

Regards