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Older Gamer new to PC building. Help!?

Gamer79

Predicts the worst decade for Sony starting 2022
I am in my mid 40's and always been a console gamer. My son gave me his hand me down PC about 5 years ago and I had some fun with it. (it was packed with an i7-4670k and a 1660ti and still played most games at normal or high) but I stopped using it years ago and sold it off.

I am going to school for IT to acquire my A+ and enter the It field. I figure building a PC from scratch would be something great to put on my Portfolio and of course I could really get into PC gaming. I will tell you what Parts I have now and Please steer me in the right Direction if you have a better alternative. I am looking for Mid- Range and Mid-sized. Also will I notice a big difference from the PS5? My GPU alone is almost 30 teraflops but I know it's not 1:1 from console to PC.

Here are the Parts I have acquired over the past Month:

GPU: MSI Ventus 3x 4070 GPU (I paid $470 used but in like new condition) I was heavily considering the 6800xt here but DLSS 3 and Ray Tracing won me over. I also like the single 8 pin power connector and the 4070 runs about 100w or so cooler.

Case: Okinos Aqua 3: (RGB fans pre installed and a really clean looking case in my opinion) https://www.amazon.com/Okinos-Micro-Pre-Installed-Panoramic-Tempered/dp/B0CQ8FT1JL/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3ATBEWWR7ZP4Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.h3-rrJDlyyVDUJdCHxqW7Nrkfph8kpRNNjdlSA24m36bx98oQkaftrP25Pdu8SwMx4ZYNCslCQgkScfhKE9ljiQRI7NEy4DRZ80I_tWBlfWAcLGGXifjB8jGYzjlc_A3v75mXss8-qkj2-V7qj1vCyh33Og2DlGytQ1U2Fpc8aA.qPt0j4UcTkBBYfJawll5Nc7AOeFSkhOfnC4kxwa3oM0&dib_tag=se&keywords=okinos+aqua+3&qid=1731692619&sprefix=okinos,aps,130&sr=8-1&th=1

Power Supply: SegoTep 750w 80 plus gold modular power supply: https://www.amazon.com/Segotep-Modular-Gaming-Supply-Certified/dp/B08W47MX46/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=F5KM49J0IQ6B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.r8g2WOUy-1E67s7dPt9-w_ywZW2dUUJrKiwy7b2nPtqcZTjiC_sB-bXcMWcdHo8CabbH6MS4CbVC-Yhr-Ls2w0s54w2gVntB2KYZzg5NQPzakbBwC2H2rSf3Uex_XjL_gVSwadQrQshCz04vRYFLyr-i9kqohydr9P6WRHnqmZBDxJ1I19OnNwxpLKDK6mkvEsEtrG3HByRHkPMk0dtcDYVZejcQ6s8ChVSN0Rnr1tc.TGaTbktxgQ9dAWTTIFGLRhjpRCLcKTy-3LUAeLFtzGw&dib_tag=se&keywords=segotep+750w&qid=1731692743&sprefix=segotep,aps,152&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

NVME: I am installing 2. My main drive with be Windows but I also have a spare 1.3 nvme drive I will put Linux Mint on for a dual boot setup. My main drive I got on sale for $99 2 tb 1.4 nvme drive https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3B4BFQ3?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

Ok now for the Parts I am considering. I want a Micro Atx setup with that slick looking case so here Is remaining parts I am considering.

CPU: Ryzen 5 5600x: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08166SLD...H979U2XC&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it

CPU COOLER: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LHLS4V...H979U2XC&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it

RAM:
Motherboard:
So do you suggest from the parts I already have anything different and is there any tips that you can give to a first time PC builder? Thank you in advance
 
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RoboFu

One of the green rats
don't bend the pins.
If you are on carpet be sure to ground yourself at least periodically.

Besides that its really easy to build pcs today. its pretty much plug what ever into the correct slot and don't forget thermal paste.
Long gone are the days of setting the correct jumpers and such.
 
Square peg, square hole. Building a PC isn't as intimidating as it seems. Take your time, reference your mobo instruction manual if you're unsure about where something should be plugged in. I've never used it, but PC Building Simulator may be a good tool to virtually practice on, but I'll let others who have used it chime in there.

Also, installing the CPU will be nerve-wracking no matter how many times you do it. I would also suggest a GPU bracket/support to help mitigate sag and stress on the connectors because the cards are enormous these days. Good luck.
 
Could have probably gotten the 3070 Ti new for less with practically identical performance and you are really slacking on the CPU.
 
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cormack12

Gold Member
Start with a smaller project first. Fitting a new SSD into the PS5 cam be troublesome and a good entry point.
 

SHA

Member
Linus will tell you to buy used components, I don't recommend used stuff, also, I don't recommend a build specifically for games cause from what I see, all pc users have more reasons than just playing games, I recommend $3k build.
 
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Topher

Identifies as young
>Older game
>1979

Don’t let Topher Topher or HeisenbergFX4 HeisenbergFX4 catch you saying this.

You've mis-aged me. The rules are clear

hq720.jpg
 
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AM5 platform will remain upgradeable in the future if that's something you value.
I personally would never cheap out on the PSU. Enermax, be quiet! and Corsair are good brands imho.
If you can afford it, jump up to a 4070 Super. Price/Perf delta to the 4070 is good.
 

Magic Carpet

Gold Member
I really like that case. I like how the front IO is on the side.
I think it's short enough that I could put it under my TV with the IO pointing forwards. I put this on my Amazon wish list for future.
 
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Gaiff

SBI’s Resident Gaslighter
A few questions Gamer79 Gamer79

When are you planning to go back to school? The RTX 50 series is right around the corner. I generally never advise waiting for a new generation, but it's only about 2 months away and it's possible you see some older cards getting their prices slashed, especially since it's rumored NVIDIA is halting the production of RTX 40 cards to make room for the new ones.

Second, a 5600X is getting a bit long in the tooth. That CPU is 4 years old and although very capable, this platform locks you out of future upgrades. If you plan on keeping your build for a few years (5+ years), it'd be better to invest in a newer platform on which you can upgrade the CPU. Your only upgrade path is a 7800X3D. You're also stuck with DDR4 and memory speed can have a significant impact on newer titles.

It's not a bad build at all, but I'm not a fan at all of using EOL parts for a brand-new computer. I know future-proofing on PC is arguably a meme, but you're putting yourself in a corner with that build.
 
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Xellos

Member
If you're going to go with Zen 3 I'd spend a little more for the 5700x3D. It's ~$90 more (~$60 more if you live near a Microcenter) but you get the 2 extra cores and the 3D V-cache. 5600x is not a bad processor but 5700x3D is worth the extra cost.
 

Dorago

Member
I'm on my fifth PC build since 2011. I was a console gamer for life before then, but the stagnation of the PS3/360 era made me look for greener pastures.

The best advice I have is set your budget ballpark, decide whether you're doing AMD or Intel for your CPU, then choose a motherboard with the features you want.

Then, go into that motherboard's manual and select your other parts based off of the tested lists they have in there.

I've done this with my last two builds and gotten much better performance and stability with components that have the same on paper specs and that cost the same too.

Also only get an AMD GPU if you are going for a full Linux build. Almost every major game uses Nvidia tech and the AMD workarounds give bad performance.
 

Gamer79

Predicts the worst decade for Sony starting 2022
A few questions Gamer79 Gamer79

When are you planning to go back to school? The RTX 50 series is right around the corner. I generally never advise waiting for a new generation, but it's only about 2 months away and it's possible you see some older cards getting their prices slashed, especially since it's rumored NVIDIA is halting the production of RTX 40 cards to make room for the new ones.

Second, a 5600X is getting a bit long in the tooth. That CPU is 4 years old and although very capable, this platform locks you out of future upgrades. If you plan on keeping your build for a few years (5+ years), it'd be better to invest in a newer platform on which you can upgrade the CPU. Your only upgrade path is a 7800X3D. You're also stuck with DDR4 and memory speed can have a significant impact on newer titles.

It's not a bad build at all, but I'm not a fan at all of using EOL parts for a brand-new computer. I know future-proofing on PC is arguably a meme, but you're putting yourself in a corner with that build.
I am schooling now.

Yes the 5600x is a few years old but it is Zen 3 and looking at the 5700x or 5800x there isn't much performance gain. That cpu does not bottleneck the GPU at all from all the test I have seen and it's still quite capable. I am not installing that shitty included cooler on it though. Also I have seen numerous Issues with DDR 5 memory. The DDR 4 should be more than fast enough for the foreseeable future. My only regret in the build is the GPU only have 12GB of VRAM. I would be happier with 16GB but from all the test it does not seem to matter that much. Oh and that 7800X3D is over $400. I will pass on that for awhile lol. Money is an object with me.
 
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Gamer79

Predicts the worst decade for Sony starting 2022
I'm on my fifth PC build since 2011. I was a console gamer for life before then, but the stagnation of the PS3/360 era made me look for greener pastures.

The best advice I have is set your budget ballpark, decide whether you're doing AMD or Intel for your CPU, then choose a motherboard with the features you want.

Then, go into that motherboard's manual and select your other parts based off of the tested lists they have in there.

I've done this with my last two builds and gotten much better performance and stability with components that have the same on paper specs and that cost the same too.

Also only get an AMD GPU if you are going for a full Linux build. Almost every major game uses Nvidia tech and the AMD workarounds give bad performance.
I'm going with a Hypbird Windows/Linux build with each OS on it's own NVME drive.

That 6800XT was very tempting but Nvida's software is so much superior. Luckily Linux Nvidia drivers have improved much recently.
 

Gamer79

Predicts the worst decade for Sony starting 2022
M
If you're going to go with Zen 3 I'd spend a little more for the 5700x3D. It's ~$90 more (~$60 more if you live near a Microcenter) but you get the 2 extra cores and the 3D V-cache. 5600x is not a bad processor but 5700x3D is worth the extra cost.

My good man you have me really considering this CPU.

Correction, It is not worth it in my instance. If I were Rocking a 4090 it would be but for a 4070 there isn't much benefit in most cases. I am budgeting and that CPU is about $90 more for little gain

 
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Gaiff

SBI’s Resident Gaslighter
I am schooling now.

Yes the 5600x is a few years old but it is Zen 3 and looking at the 5700x or 5800x there isn't much performance gain. That cpu does not bottleneck the GPU at all from all the test I have seen and it's still quite capable. I am not installing that shitty included cooler on it though. Also I have seen numerous Issues with DDR 5 memory. The DDR 4 should be more than fast enough for the foreseeable future. My only regret in the build is the GPU only have 12GB of VRAM. I would be happier with 16GB but from all the test it does not seem to matter that much. Oh and that 7800X3D is over $400. I will pass on that for awhile lol. Money is an object with me.
As I said, those are good parts. The 5600X is still a fairly capable CPU. I'm simply not a big fan of purchasing 4-year-old parts. You can go with a 5700X3D as well, it's much better for gaming, but do remember you'll be locked out of upgrading most of your system. If in 4 years, you wanna upgrade to say, an RTX 7070, that CPU might not cut it and you might have to scrap the entire system. With AM5, you'll be safer to upgrade in the future. It's all about how long you plan on having the system and if you're the type to keep the same computer and upgrade. An AM5 platform can easily last you 8 years with good performance. AM4 is no longer upgradable and might be a good performer for half as long.

I usually recommend the most recent and best parts your money can buy unless budget is a big concern in which case, older parts would be better.
 

hinch7

Member
Even on a strict budget I'd be looking at AM5, instead of AM4. Get a budget B650 board and match with a 7500F (cheap on AliExpress). That CPU be way faster than a 5600X and more in line with a 5700/5800X3D in gaming.

Gives you room for expansion for future CPU upgrades like the 9800X3D and perhaps Zen 6 X3D for slot in upgrades. Plus access to Gen 5 PCI-e, generally more NVMe slots and PCI-e lanes.

For RAM 32GB DDR5 6000 Mt/s dual channel CL30.

Might cost you maybe $100 or so more overall, but worth the premium imo. Especially if you're planning to keep the build for some time. Buy cheap buy twice as they say.
 
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Gamer79

Predicts the worst decade for Sony starting 2022
As I said, those are good parts. The 5600X is still a fairly capable CPU. I'm simply not a big fan of purchasing 4-year-old parts. You can go with a 5700X3D as well, it's much better for gaming, but do remember you'll be locked out of upgrading most of your system. If in 4 years, you wanna upgrade to say, an RTX 7070, that CPU might not cut it and you might have to scrap the entire system. With AM5, you'll be safer to upgrade in the future. It's all about how long you plan on having the system and if you're the type to keep the same computer and upgrade. An AM5 platform can easily last you 8 years with good performance. AM4 is no longer upgradable and might be a good performer for half as long.

I usually recommend the most recent and best parts your money can buy unless budget is a big concern in which case, older parts would be better.
That is what it comes down too. I am not in a great Financial spot right now so budgeting. Hell if I could afford it, I'm putting in a threadripper or an i9 with a 4090, LOL. Appreciate the tips!
 

Solarstrike

Member
any tips that you can give to a first time PC builder? Thank you in advance

Along with the excellent tips others GAF'ers have stated, here's just a couple more:
  • Place pets in their appropriate enclosure prior to working on electronics. Wandering pet hair can and will cause static and/or spontaneous scratch requests while working
  • Wash hands prior to working on electronics
  • Cover your head/hair while working to prevent loose hairs, dandruff, etc from getting on the motherboard, PSU (Power Supply Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
  • Always ground yourself before working on components, circuit boards, anything electronic. Touch wood (not that wood), furniture before proceeding. Use an anti-static mat also if possible to set parts on
  • Never work on electronics, especially computers, with a cold. A spec of moisture can fukc up an entire motherboard and/or power supply along with your wallet
  • Do not place drinks or liquids near your work area
  • If purchasing main components, get a warranty for them (CPU, GPU, PSU, Motherboard) if possible
  • Be sure your CPU is compatible with your motherboard. A bit of research goes a long way especially when PC parts change rapidly every 6 months
  • An RTX EVGA 3090 24GB GPU is better than an RTX 4070 12GB GPU. The higher the GPU model(s) doesn't necessarily mean "better". Again, research reliable and respectable sources
  • Use the correct power supply unit (PSU) with ample but not excessive wattage, taking into account your GPU power requirement especially. It's worth noting that many GPU's are power hogs and may cause fuse breakage issues if your home, apartment, space station, outpost, guard shack, has poor or old wiring
  • Do not put more than a tiny drop of thermal paste on a computer chip. Do not apply thermal paste on the CPU prior to installing the CPU. Use a toothpick or plastic knife to apply a very thin layer of thermal paste once it's secured/locked into the motherboard. Spread it evenly being careful not to get any on the motherboard
  • Make sure your cooling fans are installed properly on the tower with their blades facing the correct way for proper airflow and cooling management. Do not block cooling fan(s) airflow; cables, etc
  • Place phone on silent or low-volume when working on components, especially if nerves are bad
  • Try not to mix and match Nvidia components with AMD or Intel. Try to stick with one brand per components where possible to prevent driver confliction(s) or compatibility issues
  • Use good cabling management inside and outside. Use proper wrappings/ties or spend the extra funds for good insulated and flexible cables. Worth it in the long run
  • Minimize extra cosmetic stuff like LED lighting this and that. Keep it simple can always add stuff later. Use cosmetic components that don't require drivers, etc. otherwise they are prone to fail (Microsoft Windows confliction) run in the background unnecessarily
  • My opinion: Stay away from ASUS motherboards. They fill your PC with excessive and questionable (access control and compatibility) background programs. If already installed, utilize the Armory Crate Uninstall Tool located on ASUS/RoG (Republic of Gamers) page Armory Crate Uninstall Tool
  • Make sure everything is plugged in securely before turning on your PC
  • Download and install all necessary Windows (or whichever OS you are using) updates, GPU update, etc
  • Fasten all safety belts, secure all pod bay doors, button down the hatches. Have fun. It's game o'clock!


Cat Dog GIF
w5kXOzd.gif
 
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twilo99

Member
Even on a strict budget I'd be looking at AM5, instead of AM4. Get a budget B650 board and match with a 7500F (cheap on AliExpress). That CPU be way faster than a 5600X and more in line with a 5700/5800X3D in gaming.

Gives you room for expansion for future CPU upgrades like the 9800X3D and perhaps Zen 6 X3D for slot in upgrades. Plus access to Gen 5 PCI-e, generally more NVMe slots and PCI-e lanes.

For RAM 32GB DDR5 6000 Mt/s dual channel CL30.

Might cost you maybe $100 or so more overall, but worth the premium imo. Especially if you're planning to keep the build for some time. Buy cheap buy twice as they say.

I've never considered aliexpress for parts for whatever reason... I will from now on lol

For going with budget AM5 currently I really like this deal from amazon here for $140


Can just return if there is an issue, but I doubt there will be a problem.

So with your aliexpress suggestions (7500F is a very efficient beast it seems) he will be looking at ~$270 for those two. Solid base for a build..
 
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Danknugz

Member
I am in my mid 40's and always been a console gamer. My son gave me his hand me down PC about 5 years ago and I had some fun with it. (it was packed with an i7-4670k and a 1660ti and still played most games at normal or high) but I stopped using it years ago and sold it off.

I am going to school for IT to acquire my A+ and enter the It field. I figure building a PC from scratch would be something great to put on my Portfolio and of course I could really get into PC gaming. I will tell you what Parts I have now and Please steer me in the right Direction if you have a better alternative. I am looking for Mid- Range and Mid-sized. Also will I notice a big difference from the PS5? My GPU alone is almost 30 teraflops but I know it's not 1:1 from console to PC.

Here are the Parts I have acquired over the past Month:

GPU: MSI Ventus 3x 4070 GPU (I paid $470 used but in like new condition) I was heavily considering the 6800xt here but DLSS 3 and Ray Tracing won me over. I also like the single 8 pin power connector and the 4070 runs about 100w or so cooler.

Case: Okinos Aqua 3: (RGB fans pre installed and a really clean looking case in my opinion) https://www.amazon.com/Okinos-Micro-Pre-Installed-Panoramic-Tempered/dp/B0CQ8FT1JL/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3ATBEWWR7ZP4Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.h3-rrJDlyyVDUJdCHxqW7Nrkfph8kpRNNjdlSA24m36bx98oQkaftrP25Pdu8SwMx4ZYNCslCQgkScfhKE9ljiQRI7NEy4DRZ80I_tWBlfWAcLGGXifjB8jGYzjlc_A3v75mXss8-qkj2-V7qj1vCyh33Og2DlGytQ1U2Fpc8aA.qPt0j4UcTkBBYfJawll5Nc7AOeFSkhOfnC4kxwa3oM0&dib_tag=se&keywords=okinos+aqua+3&qid=1731692619&sprefix=okinos,aps,130&sr=8-1&th=1

Power Supply: SegoTep 750w 80 plus gold modular power supply: https://www.amazon.com/Segotep-Modular-Gaming-Supply-Certified/dp/B08W47MX46/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=F5KM49J0IQ6B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.r8g2WOUy-1E67s7dPt9-w_ywZW2dUUJrKiwy7b2nPtqcZTjiC_sB-bXcMWcdHo8CabbH6MS4CbVC-Yhr-Ls2w0s54w2gVntB2KYZzg5NQPzakbBwC2H2rSf3Uex_XjL_gVSwadQrQshCz04vRYFLyr-i9kqohydr9P6WRHnqmZBDxJ1I19OnNwxpLKDK6mkvEsEtrG3HByRHkPMk0dtcDYVZejcQ6s8ChVSN0Rnr1tc.TGaTbktxgQ9dAWTTIFGLRhjpRCLcKTy-3LUAeLFtzGw&dib_tag=se&keywords=segotep+750w&qid=1731692743&sprefix=segotep,aps,152&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

NVME: I am installing 2. My main drive with be Windows but I also have a spare 1.3 nvme drive I will put Linux Mint on for a dual boot setup. My main drive I got on sale for $99 2 tb 1.4 nvme drive https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3B4BFQ3?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

Ok now for the Parts I am considering. I want a Micro Atx setup with that slick looking case so here Is remaining parts I am considering.

CPU: Ryzen 5 5600x: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08166SLD...H979U2XC&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it

CPU COOLER: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LHLS4V...H979U2XC&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it

RAM:
Motherboard:
So do you suggest from the parts I already have anything different and is there any tips that you can give to a first time PC builder? Thank you in advance
whatever you do, do NOT reuse power cables from an old PSU on a new PSU. you can google why.
 

Miyazaki’s Slave

Gold Member
The case is a mid/itx so keep in mind cable routing as well as air flow.

Before you commit to installing everything make sure your confirm the preinstalled air flow direction. Just take a receipt or a thin piece of paper and make sure one set of fans "sucks" the paper on the fan grill and the other set of fans "push" the paper away...this will make sure you have good in take and flow.
Look at the video card and try to imagine it in the case with fan orientation.
This will have a big impact on how you will move air through the case. Hopefully it has "upward" facing fans to get better heat dissipation.

Just go slow and you will be fine...don't force stuff into holes if it doesn't feel like it will take it.

Strictly a personal opinion:
Install ram, cpu, and cpu fan BEFORE you put the mobo in the case.

1979 isn't old....1978...now that is ANCIENT.
 
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ap_puff

Banned
#1 rule is don't force things lol, if it aint going in that's because the thing isn't oriented right and if you use too much force it'll break the slot. Only exception is sometimes RAM requires a tiny bit to seat all the way in. Also 12vhpwr cable for gpus like the 4080 and 4090 (although iirc the 4070 doesnt use it) need to be inserted all the way
 

hinch7

Member
I've never considered aliexpress for parts for whatever reason... I will from now on lol

For going with budget AM5 currently I really like this deal from amazon here for $140


Can just return if there is an issue, but I doubt there will be a problem.

So with your aliexpress suggestions (7500F is a very efficient beast it seems) he will be looking at ~$270 for those two. Solid base for a build..
Yeah man you can find some excellent CPU deals on AliExpress. We're right in the middle of the best sales and deals right now. Plus with Trump planning on increased tariffs next year, if you're in the States; now is the time to buy PC parts. Just make sure you order from a Choice seller or item. AliExpress will back you up 100% if anything goes awry and there's a 90 day returns period as well if faulty. Though unlikely as CPU's these days are one of the last things to go in a system.

That mobo looks decent. I wouldn't worry about Amazon warehouse motherboards. I'm using one at the moment and it was practically brand new. Just have to do initial checks to see if its good .

For that combo, I'd say its a great place to start. If you have a midrange GPU like a 4070 or to plan on getting something like a 5070, this should get you most if not all of the way there.
 
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Xellos

Member
M


My good man you have me really considering this CPU.

Correction, It is not worth it in my instance. If I were Rocking a 4090 it would be but for a 4070 there isn't much benefit in most cases. I am budgeting and that CPU is about $90 more for little gain



Newegg has a deal on the 5700x that includes 32GB of RAM, this applies to both the 5700x and the 5700x3D. 5700x + 32GB is $180 and 5700x3D + 32GB is $230.
Newegg 5700x
Newegg 5700x3D
 
lots of good advice here. to add:
  • assemble naked and cover yourself in a light film of veggie oil to reduce chance of static shock
  • smoke cigarettes to reduce stress
  • spend as much money as possible on a psu
  • lengthen your telomeres
  • achieve positive case fan pressure at all costs
 

ahtlas7

Member
Find a step by step ‘how to’ guide on Youtube.
The Verge has you covered

You’ll be golden
*not responsible for any inaccuracies video may contain
 

simpatico

Member
Do you live in driving distance of a MicroCenter? Considering how much it can help this process in terms of cost and service, I'd put that boundary at 2 hours of driving each direction.
 

MikeM

Member
Built a few over the last few years. Heres some tips:

- Watch a few videos from PCcentric on youtube. Mainly does builds and simple benchmarks.

- Look for some bundle deals for AM5 (Ryzen 7000+ series CPUs). Go B650 as its a noce balance of bang for buck and all you really need.

- Make sure your RAM is seated the right way before you push down. Needs a firm push.

- I built mine on my kitchen table. Nice wide space that was flat.

Have fun! I love building PCs- I find it relaxing.
 
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